Minimizing Pet Finances

Being a dog owner and pet lover, inspired by a follow blogger, the following are some tips to maximize the joys of having a pet while minimizing the related expenses.

1. Adopt a pet!  Instead of paying a markup at pet stores, consider adoption.  Pet shelters are over crowded and there are many adorable fuzz balls who deserves a loving home.  I adopted my dog about eight years ago.  He was about one year old at the time and already house trained!

2. Groom your own pet!  Frequent visits to the groomer racks up the bills pretty quickly.  Consider DIY.  The weather was awesome this past weekend and I took the opportunity to spend some time in the backyard bonding and grooming with my four-legged friend.

3. Capture your funny pet moments on video and submit it to television shows for chances of winning prizes and money to spoil your pet some more!  (I am still working on this one... ) 

4. Preventative care - brush your pal's teeth regularly.  I know it's not the easiest task, but brushing your pet's teeth regularly will save from you costly teeth cleaning at the vet.

5. Spay or neuter.  Having one pet might be in your budget, but you may not be able to afford to take care of your pet's babies.  Check online for free local spay/neuter events.

6. Going on vacation?  Pet hotels these days are pretty awesome.  Some even have live web-cams so that you could see what your pet is up to.  However, boarding can be pricey.  I suggest looking for a pet loving friend or relative to help pet-sit.  Your pet may be more comfortable staying at a home environment.

My little one made a buddy when he stayed with my friend during one of my overseas vacation:

Having a pet should be an enjoyable experience and shouldn't have to thin out your wallet.  Please comment if you have more suggestions to save pet expenses.

Thanks for visiting!