Owning a dog has a lot of expenses, from the time to walk every day, all the way to the money spent on food, toys and treats. Thankfully, there are plenty of tips to saving money as a dog owner.
Dogs are expensive, so saving money as a dog owner is a top priority.
Being a dog owner is an enriching, fun, and rewarding experience.
Dogs make excellent pets, as they have for thousands of years, and there are so many breeds of dog to choose from. However, owning any sort of pet can be pricey, and dogs are no exception.
From food, vaccinations and veterinary care treats and even dog beds and toys or everything else that comes with owning a dog, costs can pile up over time.
However, it can be much easier to saving money as a dog owner when you know what you are getting into.
Following are five tips to saving money as a dog owner. With these tips, you can give your dog a wonderful life without burning a hole in your pocket.
Tips to Saving Money as a Dog Owner
Before you get a dog, ensure that you can start saving money for it.
Dogs can have a lot of surprise costs, such as medication and vet visits, so you will want to ensure that you can afford some surprises to your budget.
You should also research the dog you want along with any common medical conditions in the breed. You can even research the exact dog you wish to own and can see what their vaccination status is.
With some research you can start budgeting and looking for deals on dog care supplies that can help save a lot of money before the dog even enters the home.
DIY Doggie Supplies
Many people spend loads of money on dog toys, treats, and other items. While these supplies are part and parcel to owning a dog, they do not have to be expensive.
Consider making your own dog toys at home with affordable materials like the Jean Dog toy under our Crafts sections.
There are many links online to easy dog toys you can make all by yourself. Also, making dog toys can be a fun hobby for you or the entire family!
You can even make doggie beds and clothes at home as well, if you are willing to learn. Buying the supplies can often be much cheaper than buying a quality bed, and the skill required to make them can help you all throughout life.
Further, you can also make dog treats at home as well. There are all sorts of recipes available to make delicious treats your dog is sure to love! Additionally, when you make treats at home, you are in direct control of your dog’s diet.
If your dog has any food allergies, such as gluten, you can easily find recipes that will not upset your dog’s digestive system. This will keep your dog healthy and happy all at once.
Groom Your Dog At Home
Taking your dogs to the groomers, especially on a somewhat regular basis, can be incredibly costly.
This is especially true when you consider that you can easily groom your dog at home in no time at all.
To begin, I recommend stocking up on some higher quality grooming supplies, including brushes and shampoos. While they may be a bit pricey now, they will hold up to heavy use in the long run.
Once you have the supplies, you will want to establish a routine for grooming your dog.
Depending on the breed, the grooming needs of your dog will be different from others.
If you are unsure, even after some research, consider asking your vet next time you take your dog in for a check-up.
It is important to groom as often as the breed requires and groom well. Grooming includes brushing the fur, trimming the toenails, and brushing the teeth.
Staying on top of your dogs grooming keeps your dog healthy, happy, and looking sharp.
Stay On Top Of Your Dogs Health
Staying on top of your dog’s health can be a monetary game changer in the long run.
Taking your dog to regular vet check-ups, while pricey now, can help save you tons of money later on.
Vet check-ups can be essential to catching and solving health problems in your dog early on, before they worsen both in scope and in the money it would take to solve.
Vet prices can vary widely, so ask friends for recommendations for trusted vets and then call to ask for general pricing information. Driving to a neighboring town can save you up to 50 percent off of vet visits, so it pays to shop around.
Additionally, you will want to be sure that you monitor your dog’s eating habits, and ensure that their diet is right for them. You will also want to make sure that they are getting plenty of water and rest and having healthy potty breaks.
Develop health observations into a daily routine and you will not have to worry about missing anything either.
Buy Quality Accessories
If you decide to purchase store bought toys and supplies, such as dog beds, be sure to buy quality items. It is no secret that dogs can be destructive of their possessions, so invest in dog items that will hold up over time.
This ensures that you are not consistently spending money on broken items, and it keeps your dog content as well.
Keep Your Dog Physically Active
Dogs are playful creatures, and they need plenty of active time every day. Keeping your dog physically active keeps them from becoming overweight and decreases the chance of health problems later in life.
Further, inactive dogs can develop bad habits such as chewing, which can destroy your home, and the health of your dog. Keeping the dog active keeps them from developing these harmful habits in the long run.
Not to mention keeping your dog active also means keeping you active, which can be physically and mentally beneficial. Plus, what’s more fun than some playtime with your fluffy best friend?
Owning a dog can be a pricey endeavor, but it does not have to break the bank. The key aspects of saving money when owning a dog are research and doing things yourself. Treats, toys, and even clothes and beds can all be made at home.
Further, research can help you choose the best breed, find the best deals, and stay on top of grooming and the health of your canine.
Saving money as a dog owner is easy with these tips and tricks.
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