by Bridie Cavanaugh

Created on: November 02, 2008   Last Updated: February 12, 2009

With an unstable economy, prices rising, and the job market tightening we are all carefully watching our budgets. For a lot of us, a portion of the household budget is attributed to pet expenses. Pets are a part of our families. We can't ignore our furry, and feathered, friends as economic times get tough. We are responsible for providing them with medical care, housing and food. Luckily, there are ways to save on pet expenses.

Veterinary Care
1) Shop around for veterinary prices. Not all veterinarians charge the same amount for services. Ask about discounts and payment options.
2) Investigate low cost clinics. Many larger pet stores, and even some municipalities, offer periodic inexpensive vaccination clinics.
3) Consider pet health insurance. Premiums are usually low. Policies may help with both routine and emergency situations. Read the policy and familiarize yourself with any restrictions.
4) Research prices for medicine. There are now many on-line sites which offer significant cost savings.

Food
1) While it may be tempting to opt for a cheaper brand of pet food, it is better to feed your pet a quality brand. Bargain priced food is full of fillers which provide no nutritional value. Good nutrition results in healthier pets and less veterinary visits. The quantity of food recommended "per-serving" is usually less with a quality food.
2) Join "frequent buyer" clubs at your local pet-store. These usually result in a discount or even a free bag of food.
3) Watch for manufacturer's coupons and specials.
4) Buy as large a package as you can keep fresh. Price per pound gets cheaper with larger quantities. Ask for a discount if you purchase a large quantity at one time.
5) Price shop. Larger outlets do not necessarily have lower prices. Small stores may have more flexibility to adjust prices.

Grooming
1) Learn to provide basic grooming at home.
2) Ask you veterinarian to show you how to clip your pet's nails and clean their ears.
3) Bathe your pet, using a shampoo designed for your type of animal.
4) If you have a furry pet, brush them on a regular basis.
5) Brush their teeth. Good oral hygiene will cut down on potential veterinarian dental expenses.
6) Check to see if there is a grooming school in your area. They often offer discount prices for grooming performed by students.

Miscellaneous
1) Ask neighbors to swap pet sitting, or walking, responsibilities.
2) Check on-line classified sites for bargains on used pet equipment/supplies.
3) Use the classifieds as a resource. Search for recommendations regarding the best buys on pet supplies and quality care for your pets.

Pets are part of your family. They enjoy time spent with you. Pets do not need an excessive amount of toys, and treats, to keep them happy. Keep in mind that time spent with you is free! Take the dog for a walk. Throw a toy for the cat. Talk to your bird. They are your responsibility and your family. Watch over them as they watch over you.

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