Pets can be quite expensive. Feeding, housing, and caring for a pet can quickly add up. On average, it costs about £100 per month to care for a dog, but this can rise to £500 if you include services like doggie daycare.
To help you manage these costs, we consulted with money.co.uk for their top tips on saving money on pet care. Additionally, if you’re thinking about getting a dog or cat, check out the RSPCA’s pet calculator to ensure you can afford it.
Lucinda O’Brien, a savings accounts expert at money.co.uk, shares:
“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, putting pressure on our finances. 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 ways pet owners can save money—from secondhand toy shopping to setting up a savings account for emergencies.”
Read more: Budgeting and Financing for Your New Puppy
- Explore Subscriptions Pet food is essential for your animal’s well-being. Once you find a suitable diet, you’ll want to stick with it. Many pet food brands offer online monthly subscriptions at a reduced cost, ensuring you never run out and saving you money.
- Buy in Bulk If subscriptions aren’t suitable, try buying food and other essentials in bulk. Look for special deals on larger quantities to save money over time. Just make sure to check use-by dates to keep purchases fresh.
- Sign Up for Loyalty Clubs Many pet shops reward loyal customers through loyalty clubs. For instance, Pets at Home offers a VIP Club with free membership, monthly vouchers, and special offers on your pet’s birthday.
- Compare Prices To reduce pet expenses, always compare prices. Start by comparing supermarket prices with online options to find the best deals. A bit of research can lead to significant savings.
- DIY Grooming Professional grooming can be pricey, especially for pets needing regular grooming. Learn to groom your pet at home by watching online tutorials. Investing in grooming equipment can save you money in the long run. Even basic grooming, like regular brushing and bathing, can reduce visits to the groomer.
- Make Your Own Treats Instead of constantly buying new treats, get creative and make your own. Many online recipes use basic ingredients like bananas, natural peanut butter, and oats to create tasty dog treats.
- Shop Second Hand Save money by buying second-hand toys for your pets from charity shops. Ensure the toys are in good condition and safe for your pet.
- Ask Friends and Family For specific pet items like crates or car carriers, ask friends and family if you can borrow theirs. Sharing items can significantly reduce unnecessary costs.
- Schedule Check-Ups Prioritize your pet’s health by scheduling regular vet check-ups and keeping up with yearly vaccinations. This prevents costly health issues in the future.
- Consider Pet Insurance If you’re worried about unexpected vet bills, consider pet insurance. Research different policies to find the right coverage for your needs. While it might seem unnecessary when your pet is healthy, it can save you from expensive vet bills in case of emergencies.
- Set Up a Savings Pot If possible, save a little each month in a dedicated savings account for pet emergencies. This provides peace of mind, knowing you have funds available if your pet needs help.
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