Pet ownership can be expensive. Luckily there are some simple things you can do to ensure your pet doesn't break your budget. Listed below are 11 money saving tips to help you save money on your pet. Enjoy.
Tip 1: Consider natural remedies: We were told by a vet to use glucosamine from GNC for our pet. It does the same as the pet medicine but costs about a fifth of the price.
Tip 2: Research your pet's aliments: Before agreeing to a treatment program from your vet for your pet's aliments, undertake some research and ascertain if there are any other cheaper treatments available. Internet forums are a great place to start. You can even leave questions for other pet owners to answer.
Tip 3: Animal psychologist: While there are "experts" around, the benefit you may derive from an expensive session can be quite limited. It is a very new field and there are not that many fully qualified animal psychologists out there. Of course if you think your pet is an immediate risk to yourself or family then contact a vet or specialist straight away (better than the neighbour with the gun!).
Tip 4: Exercise your dog regularly: A fitter pet is a healthier pet. Regular exercise, for example 1/2 an hour three times a week, will keep you and your dog healthy and happy.
Tip 5: Always keep your dog on a leash: Leaches are essential when walking your dog. It will ensure your dog isn't involved in an accident, and more importantly doesn't bite anyone. Dogs act on instinct, and even the most well trained dog in the wrong environment can act up. Why risk the potential associated costs and harm to your dog.
Tip 6: Discounts for strays: If your pet is a former stray, you may be eligible for discounts at some vets or on some treatments. This is a reward for bringing a once neglected pet into your loving home.
Tip 7: Actual cost of owning a pet: The average cost of owning a dog is between $1,000 and $2,000 a year. Definitely worth keeping this in mind before you buy a pet.
Tip 8: Consider the life expectancy of your pet: If you own a "normal" dog breed then you can expect your dog to live for up to 15 years. Based on the above tip, you could be spending between $15,000 to $30,000 in total!. Crikey. We definitely encourage you to have a pet, but just make sure it is one you can afford! Maybe downscale to something cheaper. Though a budgie or fish isn't the same.
Tip 9: Don't try and sue your vet: If something happens to your pet due to a medical mistake, it generally isn't worth your time or money trying to sue. Chances are you will get less money back than what you have spent in legal costs. Generally it is not a wise financial decision to make.
Tip 10: Prevention is better than cure: As with us humans, prevention definitely is a more cost effective treatment than curing a problem. Keep your pet active, and give them a healthy diet. Try training them to do the chores. Tell them this isn't a free ride.
Tip 11: Swap "pet sitting" with your friends and family: The average cost of having your pet looked after is around $20 a day. If you are going away for a month that's an extra $600 you have to think about. It is much better financially to have friends or family look after your pets when you are away. You can return the favour to them when they travel. If they don't have a pet then you score extra points.
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