ninasupport 
Money-saving tips for pet owners
Keeping a pet is expensive and here you will find 4 ways to help pet owners save money. The PDSA calculated that the average medium size dog would cost approximately £27000 during its lifetime and as the recession bites, pet owners are looking to make savings wherever they can, which is why cutting the cost of grooming can literally save you hundreds of pounds each year.
Grooming
Grooming your dog and cat is essential for numerous reasons. A good grooming regime will help to prevent shredding, fleas, ticks, and irritations and can reduce the chances of ear infections. Aside from the health benefits they will actually look and smell so much better and it is recommended that a good groom should take place between 6 – 8 weeks depending on the length of your dog’s coat.
Cost of grooming
In the UK grooming prices can vary but as a rule of thumb, a larger breed can cost between £40 – £60, depending on the dog’s size, length of coat, and even your location. However, if your dog’s coat requires serious attention, labour is extensive so this price can skyrocket and this is the same for your cat.
Even if your dog enjoys the security of pet insurance, grooming is not covered. Policies tend not to cover preventative treatment or wellness costs.
Alternative
There is an easy alternative to professional grooming and that is to do it yourself.
Grooming your dog at home is not only cost-effective, but for anxious dogs, it will save the stress of being separated from their owners and being in an alien environment. When the world went into lockdown, dog owners had little choice but to provide home care and with the correct tools, you can make a huge saving.
Grooming equipment
Having a Cockapoo requires frequent brushing and clipping, depending on whether the coat is curly, straight or wavy.
It is so important that your dog’s coat is not neglected, since if neglected grooming sessions can be painful, especially if the fur has become matted, so a regular routine is vital, along with good equipment.
You will require:
- A good brush/comb,
- Scissors
- Shampoo or a bar of soap
- Professional dog clippers
Grooming
Having your dog professionally groomed can be extremely expensive and although the initial outlay for professional grooming tools can be costly, they will pay for themselves, compared to the amount saved at a grooming parlour each month.
If your dog’s coat is continuously growing, a good monthly clip is ideal. Brushing daily is a must to keep your dog’s coat glowing and tangle free, whereas a good bath as and when required (usually once every 4 – 6 weeks), depending on the length and type of coat.
Savings
If you calculate the cost of grooming a medium size dog, for example, £45 per month, that is a hefty saving of £540 for the year, so the initial outlay of £35.00 is a huge saving. The average life expectancy for your dog will differ from breed to breed, but even over a ten-year period the saving of home grooming will be in excess of £5,400.
Instructions
There are some wonderful YouTube videos for pet owners that offer advice from professional groomers and taken slowly, you will soon build confidence and the trust of your dog.
Saving on Dog And Cat Food
For those people looking to meet their dog and cat’s nutritional needs, it is far more cost-effective to buy in bulk, especially if you are buying online.
Prescription food is often extremely costly when purchasing directly from your veterinary surgery, so as with medicines, request a prescription from your vet and buy online, making huge savings.
Go cheaper
If your pets are used to eating premium foods, try shopping around for a diet that is slightly cheaper. There are some really good alternatives if you just read the ingredients and avoid any nasties such as additives and food colourants and do not be afraid to make your own treats, which can be bagged up and frozen.
Preventative care
It is so important to keep up with preventative care with your dogs and cats such as vaccinations, cleaning and checking teeth, and nails while monitoring your pet’s weight. Doing this regularly can cut down on veterinary visits and avoid steep bills.
Look out for any changes in your pet’s eating habits such as over or under-eating, sudden weight loss, undue scratching or any unusual changes in behaviour. All of which can all point to early health problems.
For further information on money-saving tips you can visit calculator.me
Pet Prescriptions – Buy Medications Online
One of the easiest and most effective ways to save on your pet’s health care expense is by purchasing medications through reputable online pharmacies like Pet Drugs Online in the UK. While it’s crucial to consult with your veterinarian before making any decisions about your pet’s health, many pet prescription medications can be found at lower prices from online and this is often due to the fact that online pharmacies operate with lower overhead costs and can pass on those savings to consumers.
Instructions
- Ask for a pet prescription from your Vet.
- Find a reputable online animal pharmacy or drug store
- List all of your pets details
- When prompted, upload the prescription
Before making any online purchase, it’s essential to ensure the legitimacy and reliability of the online pet drug pharmacy. Look for websites that require a prescription from your veterinarian which can be obtained following a consultation and usually at a small cost. This is around £25 in the UK, which ensures that you are getting the correct dosage and medication for your pet’s specific needs. Additionally, check for certification from recognised pharmacy organisations to guarantee the authenticity of the medications. By taking these precautions, you can confidently explore the world of online pet pharmacies, providing quality care for your pets while keeping your budget intact. I have covered this in more details on another of my blog posts ‘How To Make Huge Savings On Veterinary Medicine‘ which also includes a link to a video on our YouTube.
Summarise
In conclusion, navigating the world of pet care expenses can be challenging, but with a strategic approach, every pet parent can provide the best quality pet care without sacrificing their budget. Embracing the option to buy pet medications online is a smart move that can lead to significant savings without compromising your pet’s health.
As you embark on this journey to save money while ensuring your furry friend receives the care they deserve, remember to prioritize communication with your veterinarian. Consult them about the possibility of obtaining medications online via pet prescription and seek their guidance on reputable sources. By working together, you can strike the perfect balance between quality care and financial responsibility.
As we conclude this exploration of money saving pet care, we would love to hear from you! What money-saving tips have you found most effective in keeping your pet healthy and happy? Have you ever considered buying medications online, and if so, what has been your experience? Share your insights, stories, and tips in the comments below and don’t forget to follow us on social media for more tips.
