11 Ways to Save Money on Pet Expenses

Pets can be quite expensive. Feeding, housing, and caring for a pet can add up quickly. At a minimum, owning a dog costs around £100 per month, but expenses can rise to £500 monthly, especially if your dog attends daycare.

To help you save, we consulted with money.co.uk for their top money-saving tips for pet owners. If you’re considering getting a dog or cat, use the RSPCA’s pet calculator to ensure you can afford it.

Lucinda O’Brien, a savings accounts expert at money.co.uk, shared:

“Pets are part of the family, so it’s natural to want to give them the best care. However, pet expenses can quickly add up, putting pressure on our finances. It’s important to consider your budget and find ways to save money wherever possible.

Since April is National Pet Month, here are some tips for saving money on pet care – from secondhand toy shopping to setting up a savings account for emergencies.”

Read more: Budgeting and Financing for Your New Puppy

1. Explore Subscriptions Pet food is essential for your pet’s wellbeing. Once you find a suitable diet, consider subscribing to a monthly delivery service. Many brands offer discounts for subscriptions, and it ensures you never run out of food.
2. Buy in Bulk If a subscription isn’t an option, buy pet food and other essentials in bulk. Look for special deals on larger quantities to save money over time. Check the use-by dates to ensure the food remains fresh.
3. Sign Up for Loyalty Clubs Many pet shops have loyalty programs. For instance, Pets at Home’s VIP Club offers free membership with monthly vouchers and birthday specials for your pet.
4. Compare Prices To reduce costs, compare prices between supermarkets and online retailers. Though it may take some research, you’ll find significant savings.
5. DIY Grooming Professional grooming can be costly. Learn to groom your pet at home with online tutorials. While you might need to invest in grooming tools, it will save money long-term. If full grooming at home is too daunting, perform basic grooming tasks like brushing and bathing to reduce professional visits.
6. Make Your Own Treats Instead of buying new treats, make your own using simple ingredients. There are many online recipes for pet treats using items like bananas, natural peanut butter, and oats.
7. Shop Second Hand Reduce costs by buying second-hand toys from charity shops. Ensure the toys are in good condition and safe for your pet.
8. Ask Friends and Family Before buying new items like crates or carriers, ask family and friends if they have one you can borrow. Sharing items can help cut unnecessary costs.
9. Schedule Check-Ups Regular vet check-ups and vaccinations are crucial for your pet’s health, preventing costly health issues in the future.
10. Consider Pet Insurance Pet insurance can cover unexpected vet bills. Research different policies to find one that suits your needs. While it might seem like an unnecessary expense when your pet is healthy, it can save significant money in case of an emergency.
11. Set Up a Savings Pot Save a small amount each month in a dedicated savings account for pet emergencies. This fund will provide peace of mind and financial support if your pet needs urgent care.