{"id":15068,"date":"2018-04-30T14:43:47","date_gmt":"2018-04-30T18:43:47","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/blog.eztaxreturn.com\/?p=15068"},"modified":"2023-06-06T12:36:30","modified_gmt":"2023-06-06T17:36:30","slug":"7-tips-for-saving-money-on-pet-care","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/staging.eztaxreturn.com\/blog\/7-tips-for-saving-money-on-pet-care\/","title":{"rendered":"How Can I Save Money on Pet Care?"},"content":{"rendered":"

As much as you may love your four-legged friend, you can admit they’re expensive.\u00a0 According to the ASPCA<\/a>, the annual costs of owning a large dog or cat are $1,040 and $809, respectively.\u00a0 But there are some cases where it can cost a lot more.\u00a0 For instance, your typical pet owner spends almost double that amount during the first year.\u00a0 That’s because you have to get them spayed or neutered, training classes, a collar\/leash and cover other one-time expenses.\u00a0 Your furry friend doesn’t have to send you to the poor house though.\u00a0 There are a few tricks you can use to save money on pet care.<\/p>\r\n

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Groom them yourself<\/strong><\/h2>\r\n

Depending on the size of your dog, taking them to a professional groomer can cost anywhere between $30 to $90.\u00a0 Probably more if you live in the Northeast.\u00a0 Typically, the groomer bathes the dog, cleans their ears, trims their nails and cuts their hair.\u00a0 Although it\u2019s easier to pass these tasks off to someone else, you\u2019re quite capable of doing them on your own.\u00a0 Don\u2019t worry, there are plenty of tutorials on YouTube that can guide you through the process.<\/p>\r\n

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Sign up for reward programs<\/strong><\/h2>\r\n

Many retailers have special reward programs for loyal customers.\u00a0 It\u2019s free to join and comes with a host of benefits.\u00a0 A prime example is Petco\u2019s Pal Rewards program.\u00a0 Shoppers earn 1 point for every dollar spent.\u00a0 Once you reach 100 points, they\u2019ll give you a $5 reward.\u00a0 Members also receive a free gift on their pet\u2019s birthday and free shipping with Repeat Delivery.\u00a0 Find out if your local pet store has a rewards program of their own and sign up to start saving.<\/p>\r\n

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Get special offers sent to your inbox<\/strong><\/h2>\r\n

Some people are very picky about the brand of food they buy for their pets.\u00a0 If you\u2019re one of those people, join the manufacturers mailing list.\u00a0 By doing so, you\u2019ll receive special offers, coupons and sale notifications in your inbox.<\/p>\r\n

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Compare vet prices
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You can save a lot of money on medical care by shopping around for vets before you actually need one.\u00a0 Read reviews about their service so you know all the pros and cons.\u00a0 Keep in mind, some people do leave negative comments for minor things but that\u2019s where your own judgement comes in.\u00a0 Once you find a few vets you like, call them up and ask what they charge for specific services.\u00a0 For example, vaccinations, routine check-ups, dental care, etc.\u00a0 Choose one that makes you feel comfortable and offers good service at a fair price.<\/p>\r\n

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Fill prescriptions online<\/strong><\/h2>\r\n

Do you buy all your pet\u2019s medication from the vet\u2019s office?\u00a0 If so, you\u2019re probably overpaying.\u00a0 Many pet medications are sold online for a lot less.\u00a0 Save money on pet care by checking out pharmacies like 1-800-PetMeds<\/a>, PetCareRx and Doctors Foster and Smith.<\/p>\r\n

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Pet-proof your home
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Taking some time to pet-proof your home can keep your belongings in good condition and avoid unnecessary trips to the vet.\u00a0 Basic tips include:<\/p>\r\n