10 ways to save money on pets

It’s fair to say that as pet owners, we’d do anything for our four-legged family members. But with the prices of basics, such as fuel and food, continuing to rise, it can all start adding up for animal lovers.

Finding ways to cut costs has become crucial for most of us, yet it’s vital to do so without compromising on our pets’ health and happiness.

From the food you feed them to making sure they’re protected, here are our top tips for cutting the cost of caring for your canine companion or feline friend… 

Don’t always buy new

As much as we might love to spoil our pets, this can still be achieved by buying things second hand. 

Why not pop into your local charity shop to look for some supplies, such as pet beds, blankets, toys, and accessories? You might even find pet supplies available online through Facebook Marketplace, Gumtree, or other selling sites – giving you chance to buy essential pet care items at cheaper prices.

Share with others

For larger items, like carriers and crates, it may be worth asking friends, family, or neighbours with pets if you could borrow what you need for a short time. 

Though it’s always nice to be willing to do the same for them – by lending unused pet items, if you can, in the future!

Save money on dog walkers

If you currently pay a dog walker to visit your pooch while you’re at work, is it possible for you to come home at lunchtime to do this instead? Should you be unable to pop home during your lunch break, do you have any friends or family  nearby who could walk your dog for free? 

Top tip: Connect with a friend who’s a pet parent, so you can take it in turns walking one another’s dogs – giving your canine companions the chance to socialise and exercise!

Skip the pet sitters

Going away for a few days and unable to take your pet with you? It could be worthwhile asking a friend or family member if they can stay with your dog or feline friend while you’re working away or on holiday. 

There are also some safe websites set up for pet lovers to exchange in-home pet care for homestays around the world. By using one of these sites, you might be able to find somebody to look after your cat or dog for free, while you do the same for someone else!

Make do and mend

From treat rolls made using cardboard tubes to a towel braid toy, you can craft enrichment activities at home to keep your pet entertained instead of buying new. 

Remember: Just make sure you avoid using any small parts that may be choking hazards, and always supervise your cat or dog as they play with your creations!

Don’t cancel your pet insurance

Before you cancel your pet insurance, you should try discussing changing your cover level or excess payment with your provider to help manage costs. 

By changing the cover level of your policy, your pet stays protected, even if they only have basic cover – which could be better than having no insurance in place. Having pet insurance could save you money in the long run if your pet was to cause an accident, get hurt, or fall ill.

Buy food in bulk

Like with most human goods, buying pet food in bulk can sometimes work out cheaper than buying a bag or some tins as and when you need them. 

However, if you do buy food in bulk, it’s important to monitor its freshness; to ensure the food doesn’t go off before your pet manages to enjoy it all!

Don’t forget: Pet food banks offer a supply of free pet food to people in financial hardship.

Don't skip the preventative care

While buying preventative treatment might seem like an unnecessary expense at the time, it can save you money over the course of your pet's lifetime. Preventive treatments and vaccinations for your dog or cat can help to avoid expensive, unexpected vet bills associated with fleas, worms, and infections.

It's also very important to take your cat or dog to the vet as soon as you notice any possible issues developing. This is because certain conditions can progress quickly and get expensive if not treated swiftly enough. So, early intervention is best to keep your pet happy and your bills as low as possible.

Shop around for medication prices

If you’re given a prescription by your vet, you might find the medication your pet needs is available to purchase at a cheaper price from an online pet pharmacy.  

You can also ask your vet if there are alternative options for your pet that are just as effective at a lower cost.

Learn to groom your pet at home

Professional grooming can be expensive, especially if you own a dog or cat breed requiring regular de-shedding, trimming, or washing. Getting your cat or dog used to nail trims and ear cleanings at home could help save you money in the long term. 

For advice on how to trim your pet’s nails, brush their teeth, and clip their coat safely at home, chat to the vet experts over at Joii Pet Care. To discover grooming hacks and top tips, check out our articles on dog grooming and cat grooming.

Do you have any money-saving tips or tricks when it comes to caring for your canine companion or feline friend? If so, please share your wisdom with fellow pet parents on our Facebook or Instagram page – to help others during this cost-of-living crisis.