Counting Pennies

On average, it costs Americans $ 1500 US Dollars (USD) a year to care for a cat and almost $2000 USD for a dog. That doesn’t take into account medical emergencies, luxuries (kitty condos, anyone?) or taking Fido along on your vacation. Since I have a dog and a cat and they’re both heavily spoiled, I can only guess how much my actual numbers add up to.

If you have a pet or are considering one, here are some things you can do to stretch your pet care budget without affecting the life quality of your four-legged companion.

Adopt a Pet From a Shelter. Do you really need to spend $1000 or more on a purebred puppy? Even if you have your heart set on a specific type of dog, don’t discount shelters just yet. Not only is it cheaper to adopt a pet from a shelter, but it can also save you money in the long run, as mutts are less likely to suffer from congenital and debilitating diseases.

Spay or Neuter. It lowers the risk of cancer and perineal hernias, and it makes pets less likely to fight, roam and get into accidents.

Find Alternatives to Vet Clinics. For check-ups, vaccinations and deworming, skip the vet’s office and instead head to pet stores or the Humane Society, which offer low-cost care on a rotating basis (for example, every Monday or twice a month). For more involved medical care, consider teaching hospitals, where last-year students and residents treat pets under the guidance of licensed veterinarians. If you’re brave and don’t mind handling needles or administering medications, you may be able to save even more by vaccinating your pets at home.

Buy Premium Food. I mentioned this in another article before. Don’t skimp on pet food and avoid brands you can buy at the local supermarket. They’re high in animal by-products and preservatives and can lead to anything from an upset stomach to urinary tract infections to diabetes. Paying more for premium food upfront can save you lots on vet bills in the long run. To save on food, you can try shopping online or searching for discount coupons. Some pet stores also offer membership cards with ongoing discounts or that qualify you for free items after you shop there a certain number of times.

Cut Down Unnecessary Expenses. Learn to groom your dog, administer your own injections and take care of small emergencies. The Red Cross offers a great certification in Pet First Aid. I took the course myself a few years ago and loved it. Buy good-quality toys that last and supplement them with items you buy at the Dollar store (bowls and plates don’t need to cost you a fortune!).

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