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If you have a pet, I’m sure you think of them as a member of your family. I know for us, our pets truly make our family complete and I can’t imagine a day without each and every one of them. In our home, we have two dogs, one cat, and a goldfish. With the average cost of owning one pet being $600 - $900 annually, I’m happy to say that I’ve come across a few ways to save on those furry friends of ours.
While it is very important to get your pets to the vet for regular checkups and vaccinations, sometimes that’s just not financially possible. Vetco Clinics offer affordable pet vaccinations and preventative care in Petco pet stores locally. There are many services available and even quite a few discounted packages with no office visit fee and no appointment needed. You can find out more at www.VetcoClinics.com. In addition to Vetco Clinics, also be on the lookout for cat and dog vaccine clinics in our area sponsored by local veterinarians.
To save on food and pet supplies, be sure to sign up for your pet stores’ email newsletters or rewards programs. Local pet stores often send out emails with exclusive coupons and promotions that you’ll miss if you aren’t on their list. Larger retailers like PetSmart and Petco have reward programs that offer great discounts on the products you need. Membership to both rewards programs is free. Also check for deals online. By using Amazon’s Subscribe & Save program, we are able to get Nature’s Variety premium dog and cat food, along with some all natural treats, at a better price than you’ll find for lower quality products. And as a bonus, they’re delivered free to my doorstep each month! Be sure to watch for manufacturer coupons, too. Many brands offer coupons that can be combined with the rewards or coupons offered by stores. For toys, treats, and supplies, check out DoggyLoot, a site offering daily deals for dogs and their owners with products up to 75 percent off! You can find out more about DoggyLoot at http://ift.tt/2mXJPo2.
If fleas are a problem in your home, there are a few tricks to try before spending a hefty amount on strong medications. Some topical flea medications can cost a pretty penny ... especially when you have to treat multiple pets. Skip the chemicals and expense and try a few natural alternatives to get rid of those tiny pests. Kicking your vacuuming routine into high gear, washing pet bedding regularly, daily flea combing, and weekly baths with a mild, natural pet shampoo are all flea busting solutions that won’t break the bank.
Finally, if you aren’t a pet owner yet but have been thinking about adding a furry friend to your family, don’t forget to stop by your local SPCA to see all the adorable animals looking for a home. You’ll pay way less than you would at a pet store or breeder and you’ll also be saving the life of a perfect little fur ball.
Happy saving!
Kara Zoeller is the owner of Saving by Design, a website that helps consumers save money by providing coupons, deals and store matchups. For information, visit savingbydesign.com. Email her at Kara@savingbydesign.com.
