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Seven Money-Saving Tricks for Dog Owners
Those cute little bundles of fluff can take a bite out of your wallet. Here are seven ways to be a good pet parent and still save money:
1. Adopt from a shelter. A purebred, pet-store puppy can cost anywhere from $500 to several thousand dollars. Why not look into adopting an animal from the Humane Society or a local animal shelter? The costs are minimal and you get the added bonus of knowing that you may have saved a life. Check with your American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (ASPCA) for a list of shelters in your area.
2. Spay or neuter your dog. OK, so don't tell her beforehand, but your little Fifi LaRue will thank you for it later. Many shelters will waive paying for neutering fees in order to encourage pet population control.
3. Get your dog vaccinated. Think preventative maintenance.
Those heart worm pills are much cheaper than actually treating heart worm.
4. Train your puppy. A puppy kindergarten class can start as little as $25. The cost of repairing furniture that has been gnawed on, ruined shoes, and your frittered patience can be much higher.
5. Choose the right vet. Instead of paying four first-visit fees, find the right vet right away. Ask your friends and neighbors if they can recommend someone. Call around and ask what the cost of an initial visit would be.
6. Be creative with pet toys. The ones at the pet store often look appealing with their glitzy packaging. But sometimes the best toys are free or cost next to nothing, like grungy tennis balls and old stuffed animals.
7. Brush their teeth. I know, "You want me to do what?" But a University of Minnesota study showed that 80% of dogs and 70% of cats have a gum disease by age 3, which can also lead to other serious diseases. Vets recommend brushing your pet's pearly whites several times a week. Dry food as opposed to wet can also help keep their gums healthy. Many vets can also clean your pet's teeth professionally, just as your dentist would clean yours.
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