Being a pet parent can be expensive, from food and toys to vet bills and grooming. However, there are ways to save money without sacrificing the quality of care for your furry friend. Here are seven tips that will save you money as a pet parent:
1. Buy Pet Food in Bulk:
Buying pet food in bulk can save you money in the long run, especially if you have larger or multiple pets. When buying in bulk, look for loyalty programs or subscribe-and-save options from online retailers like Chewy or Amazon. Additionally, many local pet stores offer discounts if you purchase a certain amount of food at once. Be mindful of expiration dates to ensure that the food stays fresh, and consider storing it in airtight containers to prevent spoilage. If you’re trying a new food, buy a smaller bag first to make sure your pet likes it before committing to a larger, bulk purchase.
2. Make Your Own Pet Toys:
Instead of buying expensive toys for your pet, consider making your own. Household items like old socks, towels, or t-shirts can be repurposed into toys that your pet will love. For example, tie old fabric into a knot to create a tug toy, or fill a cardboard tube with treats to make a puzzle toy. If your pet likes to chew, you can freeze wet dog food inside a silicone mold for a homemade chew toy that also helps cool them down on hot days. Keep your pet’s safety in mind by avoiding materials that can be easily swallowed or that might splinter.
3. Groom Your Pet at Home:
Grooming your pet at home can save you hundreds of dollars per year. Regularly brushing your pet not only helps with shedding but also reduces the need for professional grooming. Invest in a high-quality pet shampoo and a proper brush or comb suited to your pet’s coat type. You can also find pet-safe nail grinders online, which are often easier to use than clippers and less stressful for the pet. If you’re nervous about cutting your pet’s nails, some veterinarians offer walk-in nail trims at a low cost, which might be cheaper than full grooming services.
4. Take Preventive Measures:
Preventive care, such as keeping your pet up-to-date on vaccinations, using flea and tick preventatives, and providing heartworm medication, is one of the best ways to avoid costly emergency vet bills. For example, regular dental care at home can prevent the need for expensive professional cleanings. Brushing your pet’s teeth or providing dental chews can help keep their teeth and gums healthy. Also, regular exercise and a balanced diet will help maintain your pet’s weight, reducing the risk of obesity-related conditions like arthritis or diabetes, which can result in expensive treatments.
5. Shop for Pet Supplies Online:
Shopping for pet supplies online can save you money not only on pet food and toys but also on other essentials like grooming tools, training aids, and medications. Many online retailers offer first-time customer discounts, or you can use apps like Honey or Rakuten to find additional coupon codes. For prescription medications or flea preventatives, ask your vet if they will price match with online pharmacies such as 1-800-PetMeds or Chewy’s pharmacy. Some companies also offer auto-ship discounts, so you can save money on regularly needed items while ensuring you never run out.
6. Adopt a Pet from a Shelter:
Adopting a pet from a shelter can be one of the most cost-effective ways to welcome a new furry family member. Most shelters include spaying/neutering, initial vaccinations, and even microchipping in the adoption fee, which can save you hundreds of dollars in veterinary costs. Some shelters also partner with local vets to offer discounts on the first wellness visit or give you a starter kit of food and supplies. Not only are you saving money, but you’re also giving a second chance to a pet in need, which is a huge benefit emotionally and ethically.
7. Take Advantage of Free Resources:
There are many free resources available to pet owners that can help reduce costs. For training, YouTube offers hundreds of free videos on everything from basic obedience to addressing behavioral issues. Additionally, local humane societies often hold free or low-cost vaccination clinics, spay/neuter programs, and even pet food banks for those in need. Apps like PawTracks and websites like PetMD can provide free advice and reminders for preventive care. Community social media groups can also be a great place to find free or low-cost pet supplies, as many people donate or sell barely used items when their pets outgrow them.
Being a pet parent can be expensive, but there are ways to save money without sacrificing the quality of care for your furry friend. With these tips in mind, you can provide your furry friend with the best possible care without breaking the bank. Looking for more ways to save money as a pet parent? Check out this article on 5 Pet Products That Are Not Worth the Money to make sure you maximize the value in where you spend your hard-earned money!
