Did you know that the first year of owning a dog can cost you up to $2,455? Choosing a cat, however, is not far behind and will leave you $2,285 out of pocket in only the first 12 months of ownership.
Of course, you cannot put a price on the love and companionship that owning a pet can bring to your life, but that doesn’t mean that all the expense doesn’t soon start to mount up.
Fortunately, there are several ways that you can save money on all those pet essentials, including pet food, veterinary fees, and pet medication.
From finding the best pet coupons and saving on grooming to keeping your pet as healthy as possible, keeping reading to discover the top five ways that you can save money on your pet expenses.
- Find the best coupons
One of the fastest and easiest ways to save money on everything from pet food to pet toys is to locate the latest money-saving coupons and promotional codes. Using a chewy promo code can allow you to save up to 40% off across all their pet supplies, plus, enjoy a wide range of other perks, including free shipping and great savings on pharmacy products for your pet.
It can also be a good idea to try switching to a cheaper brand of pet food if the one you currently buy is very expensive. The worst that can happen is that your pet doesn’t like it, and you have to switch back. No harm done.
- Groom at home
If you regularly take your dog to the groomers, you will know that this service is not cheap, and essentially you are paying for something that you could easily do yourself. Yes, it may take a bit of getting used to, and you may have to literally wrestle your dog on your first attempt, but by shampooing your dog’s fur and trimming their nails yourself, you can save up to $30 a time.
- Lower your vet bills
Vet bills are an unavoidable part of pet ownership, but there are ways that you can reduce the likelihood of your pet needing to visit the local vet. These include keeping your animal as fit and healthy as possible by ensuring they get regular exercise and ensuring that you feed them a nutritious and balanced diet.
Don’t forget that you also need to brush your dog’s teeth to avoid a buildup of plaque, which can lead to gum disease and tooth decay.
- Make your own toys
Whether you have a dog, cat, or rabbit, you will want to make sure that they are sufficiently occupied when you are out of the house so that they do not become bored and lonely. Pet toys are a great way to keep both your pet’s mind and body active, yet they can be expensive.
So, why not make your own toys using stuff that you already have lying around your home? A cardboard box, some old newspapers, or a ball of string, you will be surprised how these simple items can keep your pet occupied for hours.
- Forgo pet insurance
Sometimes a pet insurance policy is not the right option for your pet. For example, if your pet has an ongoing medical condition or is at high risk of a health concern, you will most likely have to pay a high premium on your insurance policy. Instead, consider opening up a savings account that is specifically designed for paying your pet’s vet bills as and when they need medical attention.
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