Pets bring immense joy and companionship to our lives, but it’s no secret that caring for them can sometimes be costly.
According to Battersea Dogs & Cats, it typically costs around £2,000 per year to take care of a dog – that’s £30,800 over its lifetime, according to the animal charity PDSA. For cats, the annual cost isn’t much less; still significant at around £1,500.
In a recent survey, approximately one-quarter of pet owners expressed concerns about their ability to provide basic needs for their pets in the future, with veterinary costs and pet food being the most worrying costs. That said, most pet owners would prefer to reduce their household expenses rather than give up their animals. And as we look down at our furriest member of the family’s puppy dog eyes, we’re not exactly surprised to hear that!
Luckily, with a little planning and resourcefulness, you can effectively save money on pet care without compromising the well-being of your furry friend. Here’s how to cut down on expenses while still providing the best care for your beloved companion.
Finding Cheaper Food
Depending on what you feed your dog, the Battersea Dog & Cats Home estimates that it can cost anywhere between £120- £600 a year – and that’s not even including treats. When it comes to cats, annually it can cost between £240–£655.
Feeding your pet high-quality food is of course crucial for their overall health, but don’t be fooled by premium brands selling posh nosh. Buying cheaper brands can help cut costs, and while cheaper isn’t always better, rest assured that, according to UK Pet Food, “the manufacture of pet food in the UK is highly regulated – there are more than 50 pieces of legislation governing the manufacture of pet food.”
That means any commercially manufactured pet food in the UK meeting UK Pet Food guidelines will contain complete nutritional requirements for pets. By ensuring whatever pet food you buy is a member of the UK Pet Food, you can find the most cost-effective options without compromising on nutritional value.
That said, if you love treating your pet to premium brands, you could also consider mixing it with cheaper pet food. If you’re after high-quality kibble for your cat to mix with cheaper supermarket brands, then this list is recommended by a veterinarian. Do check it out sometime.
Read: Healthy eating tips for your dog: A guide to perfect pooch nutrition
Buy Pet Food In Bulk
Just like human food, buying in bulk is cheaper. We know you may baulk at the initial cost of bulk buying, in the long run it makes plenty of sense (and saves plenty of money, too!).
Always look out for special offers and discounts at local pet stores or consider shopping online for even greater savings. Just remember to check the expiration dates on any deals to ensure the food remains fresh.
Try not to be tied down by one food brand so you have the option to choose the best deals. We realise that pets can be picky with what they eat so you may be loyal to one brand, however, no dog or at will starve themselves deliberately. There is even an argument that it’s smart to switch up your pet’s food to help prevent a pet from developing a stubborn preference for just one kind of food.
Consider Your Pet Sitting Options
Paying someone to look after your pet can quickly add up. If you own a dog and find yourself needing occasional assistance with dog care, BorrowMyDoggy is an excellent platform to explore. This innovative service connects dog owners with trustworthy individuals who are willing to look after dogs for free or at a minimal cost. It provides an alternative to expensive dog boarding or dog walking services, allowing you to save money while ensuring your furry friend receives the attention and care they need.
Finding pet care can also be as easy as asking your family, friends and even neighbours to help out. Think it will be a burden? Think again. A recent study revealed that 80 percent of folk believe that people have a responsibility to help others with time and effort. And if that help takes the form of stopping by your house to leave food and water for the cat, then thank you very much!
Prioritise Preventative Healthcare:
“An ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure.” said the renowned writer, political thinker and, scientist, Benjamin Franklin. And after a cursory check that an ounce is, indeed, lighter than a pound, we can use these wise words going forward when considering not only the health of humans, but also of our beloved pets.
Regular vaccinations and preventive treatments can help avoid costly veterinary bills down the line. Consult with your veterinarian to determine the essential vaccinations and medications your pet requires based on their age, breed, and lifestyle. By staying up-to-date with vaccinations and preventive treatments, you can protect your pet’s health and save money in the long run.
Save Money Buying Online
Speaking of saving money (that’s why you’re here after all), purchasing pet medication online can be a cost-effective alternative to buying from a vet’s office. Online retailers such as Bestpet.co.uk often offer prescription and non-prescription medicines at much lower prices – sometimes even as much as 50%.
Additionally, these platforms provide the convenience of home delivery, saving you time and effort. What’s not to love? However, always remember to consult with your vet before purchasing any medication online to ensure it’s suitable for your pet’s needs.
Learn To Groom Your Pet At Home
Don’t shell out on an expensive pet groomer – there are numerous grooming tips that you can use at home. Regular grooming is not only essential for your pet’s appearance (and for keeping your home smelling fresh!), but also for their overall well-being. Instead of relying solely on professional groomers, consider learning basic grooming techniques yourself.
Educate yourself through online tutorials or local workshops. By mastering simple tasks like brushing, bathing, and nail trimming, you can save money on grooming expenses while bonding with your pet.
Seek Support from PDSA
UK-based charity the People’s Dispensary for Sick Animals (PDSA) offers free or low-cost veterinary care for pets whose owners are on certain means-tested benefits. If you are eligible, PDSA can provide essential medical treatments, vaccinations, and even surgical procedures at a reduced cost. Reach out to PDSA to see if you qualify for their assistance programs and take advantage of their valuable services.
The Bottom Line
Caring for your pet doesn’t have to drain your finances. With a little effort and resourcefulness, you can provide your furry friend with the love and care they deserve while keeping your budget intact.