From vet bills and training treats to toys and grooming, if you’re not careful pet expenses can quickly add up. So, we’ve put together some top money-saving tips for thrifty pet parents.

Certainly, our furry friends are well worth the money they cost. Heck, their unconditional love is priceless! Having said that, if you could reduce your ongoing pet expenses why wouldn’t you? Check out these 7 money-saving tips.

1. Keep your pet’s weight in check

Sadly, overweight and obesity in pets is a growing issue. Research suggests that around 40% of dogs and cats are either overweight or obese.

Sure, you might think your pooch looks cute and cuddly carrying a few excess kilos but additional weight can seriously affect the health of your fur pal. It can cause bone and joint issues, respiratory problems and even dermatological concerns—all of which can be costly to address.

So, do your furry friend a favour and help your hip pocket at the same time by keeping his or her weight under control. Stick to the recommended serving size for your pet and ensure they get regular exercise.

2. Adopt instead of buying

Thinking of getting another cat or dog? Save a heap of cash by adopting instead of buying. Animal shelters all across Australia are abundant with adorable pets looking for their forever homes.

Not only will you save money on the cost of the pet versus buying from a breeder, but you might also save on the cost of microchipping, vaccination and desexing. Of course, you can also enjoy the happy feeling that comes with saving an animal’s life.

3. Be insurance wise

Tons of pet parents risk paying hundreds, even thousands, of dollars because they don’t have pet insurance.

Of course, the other important factor is making certain you have adequate cover. Circumstances and situations can change over time. Be sure to keep this in mind when reviewing the terms of your policy and don’t forget to shop around. The minute that insurance renewal comes through is the perfect opportunity to check your current policy details and renewal premium and compare it against other insurers.

Looking to make your vet bills more affordable? Get a quick pet insurance quote today.

4. Make your own

When it comes to easy-peasy money-saving tips, you can save a stack of cash by creating your very own dog toys and pet treats. Why, you can even make your own dog bed! Not only will you enjoy the satisfaction of being super creative, but also you might have stacks of fun.

Involve your kids and use it as a way of explaining how plastic and packaging often ends up in landfill. You see, by making your own homemade toys and tasty pet treats you can save money and help the environment. It’s a win-win!

5. Invest in your pet’s health

You might think you’re saving a bob or two by missing your annual vet check or skipping a month’s flea medicine, but this will likely cost you in the long run.

Indeed, it’s much more cost-effective to invest in your dog or cat’s health and wellbeing. This means maintaining a regular exercise regime, feeding your pet a healthy and nutritious diet and making sure vaccinations and annual health checks are up to date. Taking your fur pal’s preventative health seriously is likely to save you in the future, as you might avoid some potentially ghastly vet bills!

6. Buy in bulk

Some essential pet supplies can be quite costly. One of the simplest money-saving tips is to buy in bulk from a wholesaler or large supplier. Yes, this means you might have to fork out more upfront, but over the course of the year this will save you money.

Alternatively, why not team up with other pet owners you know and set up a cooperative-like arrangement. This will not only make it cheaper, but you’ll have fewer bulky supplies to store in your pantry. Plus it’s a good way to get to know other local pet owners.

7. Pet sit for friends

Offering to do pet swaps with friends to cover holidays, evenings out or weekends away is a no brainer. It saves everyone money on pet boarding fees and it means your beloved pet gets to hang out with people he or she knows.

 

Got a good money-saving tip to share with fellow pet owners? Pop it in the comments box below.

 

Information sources:

Alexander J. German. The Growing Problem of Obesity in Dogs and Cats. The Journal of Nutrition, Volume 136, Issue 7, 1 July 2006, Pages 1940S–1946S, https://doi.org/10.1093/jn/136.7.1940S

 

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