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Finances & Money

3 Tips for Affording a Family Pet

November 30, 2020
By Susan Paige
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From vet visits to cat condos, owning a pet can rack up the bills.

While everyone wants the comfort of a four-legged friend, it can be tough to make ends meet when you’re paying for pricey animal expenses out of pocket. Though it’s never going to be a walk in the (dog) park, there are some ways to reduce spending and enjoy pet ownership on a budget.

Below are three tips for affording a family pet, without breaking the bank!

#1 Buy Pet Food in Bulk

When it comes to pet food, cutting costs on quality can be detrimental to your animal’s health.

That being said, there are ways to save money based on the quantity of food you’re buying. Purchasing pet food in bulk can help you save money and time. Many pet supply stores, like Chewy, offer deals and free shipping when you subscribe to monthly deliveries on larger orders. This is a great way to ensure you never run out of pet food, and get 40% off your first order.

First-Time Pet Owner Tip: Many dry food brands lack the proper nutrients your pet needs—particularly Omega fatty acids. Try adding an omega-3 supplement to their diet to keep their skin and heart in good health.

#2 Opt for a Smaller Pet

It’s safe to say that a hamster will cost far less to care for than a horse. The same goes for more common household breeds, like cats and dogs. If you’re looking for an affordable family pet, opting for a smaller animal is going to be easier on your wallet. 

Ways that a pocket-sized pet will save you money may include:

  • Beds – Cat and dog beds change dramatically in price when you go up a size or two. A smaller bed equals less material, thus a lower price tag.
  • Food – A larger pet is going to need more food in order to satisfy their hunger. Choosing a smaller animal (with a smaller stomach) can help you spend less on food without letting your furry friend go hungry.
  • Boarding – If you’re planning to leave town at any point, finding overnight care for a smaller animal can be considerably cheaper. When a large pet takes up more room in a boarding facility, it only makes sense that you’ll be charged a higher price.

First-Time Pet Owner Tip: Many animals suffer from separation anxiety. To calm their nerves in a boarding situation, CBD can help your pets adjust to new environments more easily. This technique can be used for vet and groomer visits as well.

#3 Prevent Costly Medical Bills with Pet Insurance

If you’ve never heard of pet insurance before, you’re probably thinking it sounds a little extreme.

How much could vet visits possibly cost? The answer: it depends. A routine visit may only cost $50 or so, but emergency services can stick you with a bill in the thousands.

Having pet insurance is a good way to keep your pet and your savings healthy. Get a quote through an affordable company, like Spot, for benefits including:

  • Up to 90% reimbursement on vet visits
  • A 10% discount when you have multiple pets
  • Customizable coverage
  • A 24-hour wellness hotline for your questions and concerns

First-Time Pet Owner Tip: You should schedule a minimum of one vet visit per year. Annual checkups will ensure your pet is hitting the proper milestones, receiving their vaccination boosters, and getting checked for serious diseases.

Feel Your Pet’s Love in Your Heart, Not Your Bank Account

Pet ownership is never going to be cheaper than non-pet ownership, but you probably already knew that.

While your four-legged friend is bound to cost you some money, it doesn’t have to be an exorbitant amount. Having a family pet on a budget is possible with a few handy tricks. So, don’t be afraid to adopt that playful pup or cuddly cat—your bank account is going to be just fine.

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