4 Ways To Stop Wasting So Much Money on Your Pets
Written by
Cindy Lamothe
Edited by
Susan Kim
Commitment to Our Readers
GOBankingRates' editorial team is committed to bringing you unbiased reviews and information. We use data-driven methodologies to evaluate financial products and services - our reviews and ratings are not influenced by advertisers. You can read more about our editorial guidelines and our products and services review methodology.
20 Years
Helping You Live Richer
Reviewed
by Experts
Trusted by
Millions of Readers
Even if you’re the savviest shopper around, overspending on your pets can be your blind side. You can easily blow your budget on special treats and toys during every grocery run.
“A lot of people spend too much on things their pets don’t really need,” said Dr. Alex Crow, licensed veterinarian and owner of PetHealthGuru.
“For example, expensive pet foods often aren’t any better than more affordable, high-quality brands,” he explained. “Pet grooming can also get pricey if you’re paying for services you can do at home, like brushing or trimming nails.
“Even with toys, pets are often just as happy with something simple and cheap.”
Fortunately, experts have some tips for how you can save money on your beloved pets without cutting corners on care.
Focus On High Quality Affordable Brands
“My company works with people across a spectrum of income levels,” said Ben Klesinger, co-founder and CEO of Reliant Insurance Group and Helping Hand Financial.
The number one way he sees pet owners overspend is on premium pet foods and fancy treats. “High-quality yet affordable brands like Iams, Purina and Nutro provide complete nutrition at a lower cost. … Throwing money at premium products and services often adds little benefit. Keep things simple, and both you and your pet will be better for it.”
He recommended sticking to a regular feeding schedule and limiting treats to no more than 10% of calories.
David L. Blain, CFA and chief executive officer at BlueSky Wealth Advisors, has also witnessed pet owners overspend on premium pet food and expensive treats — and he also noted Iams, Purina and Nutro as affordable, nutritious brands. He also said buying larger bags in bulk and avoiding constantly switching foods can save hundreds per year.
Crow agreed that shopping smart is key. “Shopping smart is another big way to save. I suggest comparing prices online and buying in bulk for things like food and litter.”
Save On Medical Care
For medical care, Blain suggested establishing a relationship with an affordable vet and sticking to a regular checkup schedule — and don’t go to emergency vets for non-emergencies.
He also recommended asking about generic medication options, which can cost 90% less. “And consider pet insurance for major issues. It has saved many clients thousands.”
Preventive care is also one of the best ways to save money, according to Crow. Regular vet visits and vaccines might seem like extra costs, but they can prevent serious illnesses that are much more expensive to treat.
“For example, I’ve seen puppies get sick with parvovirus because they weren’t vaccinated — it’s heartbreaking and costly to treat,” he said.
Groom Your Pet at Home
Experts advise grooming your pet at home as much as possible.
“Only use professional grooming for difficult tasks like nail trims. With brushing, bathing and nail care at home, you avoid pricey salon visits,” said Klesinger.
Blain noted the same. “For grooming, learn to brush and bathe your pet at home. Ask your vet about safe DIY options for flea/tick prevention and save on costly services. … With some adjustments, you can properly care for your pet without breaking the bank.”
The key, he said, is avoiding excess and focusing on what they really need: quality food, exercise, training, love and routine medical care. “Spending smart today will help ensure a lifetime of health and happiness together.”
Take Advantage of Helpful Resources
According to Crow, there are many great resources to help cut costs.
“Many areas have low-cost clinics for spaying/neutering and vaccinations,” he explained.
For quick advice, he said apps like The Net Vet offer affordable vet consultations without needing to visit a clinic.
“Saving money on pet care is about knowing where to spend and where to save,” said Crow. “By focusing on prevention, smart shopping and using the right resources, pet owners can keep their pets healthy without spending too much.”
More From GOBankingRates
