Owning a pet can be costly, with monthly expenses ranging from £100 to £500, especially if your dog attends daycare. However, there are several ways to save money while still providing excellent care for your furry friend.
Lucinda O’Brien, a savings expert from money.co.uk, shares her top tips for cutting pet costs. Additionally, if you’re thinking about getting a pet, use the RSPCA’s pet calculator to check affordability.
“Pets are part of the family, so it’s natural that we want to give them the best possible care. However, pet expenses can quickly add up and this can put pressure on our finances, so it’s important to consider your budget and find ways to save money wherever possible. Plus, April marks National Pet Month, so to celebrate our furry friends here are some of the ways pet owners can save money – from secondhand toy shopping to setting up a savings account for emergencies,” says O’Brien.
Read more: Budgeting and Financing for Your New Puppy
- Explore Subscriptions Many pet food brands offer monthly subscriptions at a discounted rate. This not only saves money but also ensures you never run out of food.
- Buy in Bulk Purchasing pet food and essentials in bulk can lead to significant savings. Just be mindful of expiration dates to keep the food fresh.
- Sign Up for Loyalty Clubs Pet stores often have loyalty programs that offer rewards, vouchers, and special offers. For example, Pets at Home’s VIP Club provides monthly vouchers and birthday specials.
- Compare Prices Always compare prices between supermarkets and online stores. A bit of research can result in considerable savings on pet supplies.
- DIY Grooming Professional grooming can be pricey. Learn to groom your pet at home using online tutorials. Investing in grooming tools can save money over time.
If full grooming at home is daunting, try basic tasks like brushing and bathing to reduce professional grooming visits.
- Make Your Own Treats Instead of buying treats, make your own using simple ingredients. Many online recipes require basics like banana, natural peanut butter, and oats.
- Shop Second Hand Reduce costs by buying second-hand toys from charity shops. Ensure the toys are in good condition and safe for your pet.
- Ask Friends and Family Borrow pet items like crates or carriers from friends or family instead of buying new ones. Sharing can help cut down unnecessary expenses.
- Schedule Check-ups Regular vet check-ups and vaccinations are essential for your pet’s health and can prevent costly health issues in the future.
- Consider Pet Insurance Pet insurance can cover unexpected vet bills. Research policies to find one that suits your needs and provides peace of mind.
- Set Up a Savings Pot Save a small amount each month in a dedicated account for pet emergencies. This provides a financial cushion for unexpected expenses.
By implementing these tips, you can manage pet expenses effectively without compromising on the quality of care for your beloved companion.
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