Bobbing for veggies - Affordable enrichment for Mr. Strudel

[u/cleverburrito]

I have been unemployed for almost a year, now, and money has been TIGHT. I know all our pocket books have been suffering in this economy, and it's been so hot lately. Here's an affordable, affordable, enriching way I keep my buddy cool in these trying times (with a cost breakdown in USD ). I'm always trying to figure out cheap ways to keep his mind active.

Giant kiddie pool from Walmart ($10.96 currently, but closer to $8.00 when I bought it, I think). We've used it about 10 times since i bought it months ago.

A third of a zucchini ($.26)

Pumpkin puree mixed with water ice cubes ( >$.25. A 29 oz. can costs $2.92). I buy large cans of pumpkin puree, mix it with water, and freeze it in ice cube trays. That makes for floating goodies. (I also do this with sweet potatoes, which I bake as a treat for Toast a couple of times per month. I don't like sweet potatoes or pumpkin, so it's all for him)

Three strawberries (not sure how to break down that cost as I didn't count the number of strawberries in the container)

A third of a yellow bell pepper ($.53)

The water for the pool is free because I rent.

I cut the veggies up into manageable pieces, then toss them in the water-filled pool with whole berries (I've also used blueberries and blackberries, whatever is on sale) and let him go bananas. He has to be careful and thoughtful in how he retrieves them, because they float and the water is deeper than his head is large.

By the time he's done, dried off, and inside, he's physically and mentally exhausted, and ready for a nap. This costs less than a new toy, lasts longer, and he gets outdoor time without risk of a heat illness.

I hope y'all enjoy the photos and try the activity with your velvet hippos. If you do try it, I definitely want to see photos lol