How to save money on pet care as the cost of living rises
The rising cost of living crisis in the UK is affecting every aspect of our lives, and many animal lovers across the country are worried about rising bills and looking after our four-legged friends.
From pet insurance to food, toys, treats and more – it all adds up and can make pet ownership a major stress in such difficult financial times.
Animal charity PDSA has said the average dog over its lifetime costs around £30,800. For cats, the figure is around £18,000 for an average lifespan.
Many pet owners across the UK are feeling the pinch in their pockets and are desperately looking to cut costs whilst making sure their pet is still cared for.
Here are some simple ways pet owners can save money on all aspects of pet ownership whilst the country faces continued rising costs.
Groom your own pet
Learning how to groom your own pet at home could save you a pretty penny. Dogs don’t need to be bathed often so you’ll have plenty of time to get your pooch trained to be comfortable in the bath. Clipping the dog’s nails at home will also save some cash – be sure to get a vet or professional to show you how. You can buy dog trimmers online at a relatively low price and it’s very easy to do.
Buy pet food in bulk
Many have been buying human food in bulk to battle the rising food prices and it is no different for pets. Buying animal food in bulk will save you money as bigger bags often work out less per gram.
Shop around online for discounts and sale prices.
Don’t forget some foods can be frozen for your dog – such as chicken.
Another money-saving tip – make pet treats at home. There are a million easy-to-follow recipes online and most treats don’t take long to bake.
Preventative treatments save money
Preventative care is the best money-saving tip for animal owners. Brush their teeth, don’t skip annual vet trips, and make sure they’re nourished and are getting plenty of regular exercise.
Also, preventative care for fleas and worms will also help save money in the long run.
Shop around for pet insurance
Use comparison websites when looking for the best deals on pet insurance. Make sure you read the small print and be sure of what’s included.
Pet insurance can save you money on annual fees such as vaccinations, visits, major surgeries and more.