by Shauna Zamarripa

Created on: December 09, 2011   Last Updated: December 12, 2011

Save Money on Veterinary Costs

Your pet is part of the family. For many people, keeping their pets healthy and happy is a priority, but it can be a costly one. If you do a little preparation and research, you will be able to reduce Fido’s vet visits and keep a lid on Fifi’s prescription costs.

1) Don’t scrimp on the annual exam

Just like humans need a checkup every year, so do your furry friends. An ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure, and significantly reduced vet bills.

2) Don’t forget the dental care

Poor oral care can manifest in other ailments in humans and in animals. Brushing your dog or cat’s teeth a few times a week helps prevent these problems and saves you money in the end.

3) Extend your vaccinations

Some veterinarians offer three-year vaccinations as opposed to yearly vaccinations. This can save a few hundred dollars over the span of your pet’s life. Talk to your veterinarian about the frequency of your pet’s core vaccinations and asked if you can extend them.

4) Avoid costly emergency room visits

In many cases, a dog or cat is like a baby in that they cannot verbally communicate when their tummy is upset or when they just don’t feel good. However, in many of these cases, pet owners know that there is something “off” with their four-legged companion. When this happens, it is best to get your pet into the vet sooner than later. Emergency vet clinics and visits are much more expensive than normal veterinary costs.

5) Maintain good nutrition

If humans eat junk food, they feel bad, they are lethargic and it is detrimental to their overall health. The same is true with dogs and cats. Feed your pet high quality, nutrient rich foods to keep him healthier longer.

6) Discounts? It never hurts to ask.

Some veterinary practices offers discounts and reduced fee services to seniors, military members, students, public servants or individuals with multiple pets. Ask about these.

7) Event discounts

There are almost as many months dedicated to pet health as there are to human health. During pet health months, it is not uncommon for veterinary offices to offer promotions and discounts.

8) Pet insurance

Pet insurance is a great way to invest in the long-term health of your four-legged friend. The policies work similarly to your own health insurance, but can come with costly premiums the longer you wait to insure your pet. To keep your premiums low, insure him when he is young.

9) Matching drug prices 

Prescription medication can cost a paw and a leg if you are not careful. Research prices of popular drugs online and ask your veterinarian if he can match them. If he cannot, get the written prescription from your vet and order your medications online.

10) Talk to your pharmacy

Some pet medications can be filled at your local drug store, which means you have the options to get generic and low-cost equivalents for many common pet medications, saving you even more in the process. Ask your veterinarian if this is possible.

Loving your furry friend does not mean having to overspend on their healthcare.

Learn more about this author, Shauna Zamarripa.
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