Dogs are a lot of fun, but they also come with a lot of expenses. From food and toys to vet bills and doggy day-care, it’s easy to spend a lot of money on your furry friend. But don’t worry, there are ways to save money and still give your dog a great life. Check out these money saving tips for dog lovers.
One way to save money on dog food is to buy it in bulk. Many pet stores offer discounts when you purchase large bags or cans of food. This can help you save a few dollars each month, which can add up over time. You can also look for sales and coupons to further reduce the cost of your dog’s food. Moreover measuring your pets food can be a great way to ensure nothing goes to waste by using dog food measuring cups or dog food scales are a great way to accurately and easily measure your dog’s food – simply weigh out the correct amount every mealtime. This helps you to ensure you’re not over or under-feeding your pet, saving money on food and vet bills.
Obesity in pets can lead to a variety of health problems, including diabetes and heart and joint conditions, which can cost thousands of pounds to treat. This way, you’re ensuring your pet gets the right amount of food for their size, as well as saving money on expensive vet bills should your pet eat too much.
Homemade dog treats are not only cheaper than store-bought ones, but they’re also healthier for your dog. There are tons of recipes online for healthy and delicious dog treats that you can make at home. Not only will your dog love them, but you’ll save money too.
If you work long hours or travel often, doggy day-care can be a lifesaver. But it can also be expensive if you pay by the day. Many doggy day-cares offer discounts for memberships, so if you plan on using their services often, it’s worth it to sign up for a membership. You’ll save money in the long run and your dog will be happy and well-cared for while you’re away.
Taking your pet with you on a dog-friendly holiday is a lot cheaper than the costs associated with putting your dog in a kennel! Your pet is part of your family – so taking your dog with you can often make your trip even more memorable too. There are a range of pet-friendly holiday homes across the UK and Europe, and you can check out companies like holidaycottages.co.uk which have an extensive collection of dog-friendly spots right here in the UK. If you’re part of their VIP club, your dog stays for free, which saves you even more money when it comes to budgeting!
if you have more then one dog its a good idea to take out multi-pet insurance. some insurance companies offer discounts if you insure more than one pet with their polices.
By creating a WhatsApp group with other pet-lovers in your neighbourhood, you can save costs on those nights where you need someone to watch over your four-legged friend.
Get your neighbours, friends and pet-enthusiasts on-board. And it works both ways… when you need someone to come and look after your pet – and returning the favour for your friends too!
Regular grooming is an essential part of caring for your dog’s health and wellbeing. If not brushed regularly, knots and matted fur can occur, which is uncomfortable for your pet, and can also lead to skin problems (which is another vet bill to contend with). Brushing your dog regularly at home could save you money at the groomers. Those lengthier appointments brushing out knots add up – but if your dog is cared-for regularly at home then grooming appointments can be kept to a minimum.
investing in good quality robust dog toys might cost you more but will save you money over time by outlasting cheaper alternatives. furthermore figure out how your dog likes to play, and pick your toy’s accordingly. Get them something sturdy toys that mimic their natural play behaviour and that they’re bound to enjoy.
For walks, it’s often tempting to hop in the car and drive out somewhere but doing this regularly will soon eat away at your petrol. With petrol prices on the rise, if possible, plan out some more local routes that do not require a car. Plus – your four legged friend will be more grateful for the extra sniffing time outdoors, versus a car ride.
Always close doors securely and make sure your pet can’t escape through an open window. Store toxic products where dogs and cats can’t get to them. Relocate cords that might choke, strangle or electrocute a pet. Even items like loose string and rubber bands can provoke a trip to the emergency room.
For toys as well you can craft DIY toys checkout Pinterest for homemade dog toys that are inexpensive to make and can entertain your pet for hours.
For dogs medication can be quite expensive in some cases, so it is important to shop around if you are trying to save money. Many vets sell medications directly, but they often charge more than some other sources do. You can inquire at your local pharmacy – some pet medications are identical to human medications. However, you’ll usually find that buying your pet’s medications online is the cheapest route.
One of the most effective ways of saving money is by simply avoiding breeds that typically have a number of health issues. Or, at the very least, avoid those breeds who often suffer from expensive health issues. This includes things like hip dysplasia, intervertebral disc disease, and brachycephalic airway syndrome. These problems may cost you thousands of dollars to treat, and in some cases, the treatment may not even be completely effective.
There’s no denying that dogs are expensive, but there are ways to save money and still give your furry friend a great life. From buying in bulk to making your own treats, there are plenty of ways to cut costs without skimping on quality. So next time you’re feeling guilty about spending money on your dog, remember these tips and know that you’re not alone!
