There can be no denying that keeping a pet, any type of pet, costs money. If you are having money difficulties, the last thing you need are more bills and costs caused by your furry friends. There are a few tricks you can do to make sure the costs are kept to a bare minimum.
Take care of some of your pet’s needs yourself
Minor jobs that your pet needs doing from time to time can easily be done yourself. From brushing teeth to trimming claws, brushing coats and even cleaning ears regularly to avoid infections, you can carry out these tasks with ease. If you are unsure how to carry them out your vet can advise you. Make some notes and then you never have to pay for these services again.
Make sure you are not over-vaccinating
Some vaccinations are no longer required year on year. Ask your vet for clear instructions on what vaccinations are needed and how often. Otherwise money could be being poured down the drain.
Buy your medications online
This is a guaranteed way to save you money, buy all your medications, lotions and treatments for your pet online. The savings available are huge.
Don’t choose the first veterinarian you come across
Instead, shop around so you can compare prices which can differ wildly. Make sure you choose one of high quality though, as this must not be compromised.
Shop around for supplies
Cat litter trays, dog kennels, bird cages and toys can vary in price so make sure you shop around a bit to find the best deals.
Say no to fashion and ‘bling’
Do not buy any unnecessary items for your pet such as fancy collars, clothes and other ‘pet bling’. Let’s face it, your pet gets nothing from it and it just hurts your purse.
Consider pet insurance
There are many different types of insurance available. Make sure you choose one that is cost effective for you. This may be one that includes routine check-ups and procedures, or it may be one that deals only with emergencies or serious illness.
Think before buying your pet ‘a friend’
Try to resist adding to your pet brood. Additional pets mean plenty of additional costs.
Save for end of life care
End of life problems can run up huge bills. It is advisable to start saving now so there aren’t any additional problems of payment to add to an already stressful time.
Don’t necessarily buy the cheapest food
This may cost more in the long run as cheaper food can lead to a host of health problems. Also cheap food can contain ingredients that cause hyperactivity and affect training and behaviour.
Don’t overfeed your pet
Apart from going through the food faster, your pet could gain too much weight. An overweight pet opens a door on further problems relating to health that could cost a small fortune further down the line.
Spay or neuter your pet
Spaying and neutering is important for your pet not just to avoid reproduction, but also so various illnesses like prostrate and ovarian cancer are less likely to occur. Once neutered dogs also roam less, so are less likely to be hit by a car.
Do any of you have any other tips on how to keep pet costs down? Send in your ideas and thoughts for us all to share.
Take care of some of your pet’s needs yourself
Minor jobs that your pet needs doing from time to time can easily be done yourself. From brushing teeth to trimming claws, brushing coats and even cleaning ears regularly to avoid infections, you can carry out these tasks with ease. If you are unsure how to carry them out your vet can advise you. Make some notes and then you never have to pay for these services again.
Make sure you are not over-vaccinating
Some vaccinations are no longer required year on year. Ask your vet for clear instructions on what vaccinations are needed and how often. Otherwise money could be being poured down the drain.
Buy your medications online
This is a guaranteed way to save you money, buy all your medications, lotions and treatments for your pet online. The savings available are huge.
Don’t choose the first veterinarian you come across
Instead, shop around so you can compare prices which can differ wildly. Make sure you choose one of high quality though, as this must not be compromised.
Shop around for supplies
Cat litter trays, dog kennels, bird cages and toys can vary in price so make sure you shop around a bit to find the best deals.
Say no to fashion and ‘bling’
Do not buy any unnecessary items for your pet such as fancy collars, clothes and other ‘pet bling’. Let’s face it, your pet gets nothing from it and it just hurts your purse.
Consider pet insurance
There are many different types of insurance available. Make sure you choose one that is cost effective for you. This may be one that includes routine check-ups and procedures, or it may be one that deals only with emergencies or serious illness.
Think before buying your pet ‘a friend’
Try to resist adding to your pet brood. Additional pets mean plenty of additional costs.
Save for end of life care
End of life problems can run up huge bills. It is advisable to start saving now so there aren’t any additional problems of payment to add to an already stressful time.
Don’t necessarily buy the cheapest food
This may cost more in the long run as cheaper food can lead to a host of health problems. Also cheap food can contain ingredients that cause hyperactivity and affect training and behaviour.
Don’t overfeed your pet
Apart from going through the food faster, your pet could gain too much weight. An overweight pet opens a door on further problems relating to health that could cost a small fortune further down the line.
Spay or neuter your pet
Spaying and neutering is important for your pet not just to avoid reproduction, but also so various illnesses like prostrate and ovarian cancer are less likely to occur. Once neutered dogs also roam less, so are less likely to be hit by a car.
Do any of you have any other tips on how to keep pet costs down? Send in your ideas and thoughts for us all to share.
Good post, but where else can I find information on this topic?
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