Money Saving Tips for New Pet Owners
Guest Post by Jessica Brody of OurBestFriends.pet
You may have considered getting a pet in the past, only to let budget concerns stop you in your tracks. And while it’s true that owning a dog or cat is a financial investment, you don’t have to bleed your wallet dry to keep them happy and healthy. In fact, it is entirely possible to save money on everything from toys to vaccinations and cleaning supplies to safety products. Here are a few smart (and economical) tips on keeping your hard-earned moneywhere it belongs while still fulfilling your
obligation as a responsible pet owner.
About the blogger: Ms. Brody has never met a dog she didn’t love. She is always eager to look at pet pics and hear about the funny adventures of other pet parents. As a pet owner herself, Ms. Brody knows it’s never a dull moment.
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| Image courtesy of Pixabar |
Sticker
Shock
For almost everything you would buy for your
dog, there is an alternative that’s just as effective. For example, while there
is a virtually unlimited array of dog toys
on the market, your pet will be just as happy bonding with you playing with a
tennis ball and a few lengths of heavy rope. However, if you have your heart set
on a particular toy, you may even be able to find ways to save at your favorite
retailer. Walmart, for example, carries just about everything you’ll need to
care for your pet, and you may be able to find Walmart
coupons to save even more.
Much of the gear you need can also be found at
discount stores or through your local animal shelter, which may sell these
items as part of their ongoing fundraising efforts.
Cleaning
a Costly Chore
You’re also going to need to ensure that you
have the right tools available to clean your home. Dogs and cats alike shed and
spread dander, which clings to soft surfaces including the carpet and curtains.
A good vacuum cleaner, one that’s built to last, can help you
eliminate much of these airborne irritants. PetMD notes that powerful suction is essential and
recommends choosing a vacuum cleaner with attachments to help you reach
out-of-the-way places where hair can collect. Vacuum cleaners can cost several
hundred dollars, however, so it pays to compare before you buy so that you
aren’t stuck with a machine that doesn’t meet your needs.
Adoption
Is Economical
There are many reasons to adopt from an animal
shelter. Most important, of course, is that you are saving an animal’s life.
Shelter dogs are often housetrained, and adopting an animal means less profit
for the breeder mills. If you are not yet sure which type of companion will fit
your lifestyle, shelter staff can match you with a pet that perfectly pairs
with your personality, home, and health. ClearTheShelters.com explains that
many shelters offer adoption counseling services that can help you establish a
bond with your new pet and provide support for the first few weeks they are in
your care. If money is your main concern, keep in mind that purchasing from a
breeder can set you back up to
$2,000 for a purebred, while you can adopt an equally
adorable shelter pet for a fee of $300 or less.
Additional
Expenses
Depending on where you live, you may need to
install a fence around your home to keep your new pet safe. This can cost
thousands of dollars, but if that’s not in your budget, an invisible fence may be an option
for around $220. Keeping your pet safe also means ensuring they are current on
the most common vaccines. Ask your veterinarian
or pet store about discount days that can save you money. If you adopted from
the shelter, your pets have likely already had their most recent round of
shots, which saves you from paying for them out of pocket.
Having a pet is rewarding, and the joy you
receive from the unconditional love your new friend offers will far exceed the
dollars you’ll spend. However, if your dollars are few and far between, there
are many ways to save if you know where to look.