Cheap Pet Food, Toys and Necessities: Ways to Save Money on Pets

Pets are like kids: they can drain your wallet quickly. Walk through any pet store and you'll see a wide variety of toys, food and equipment. It's easy to spend over $200 in pet supplies for your "baby." Add on a veterinarian bill and monthly grooming, and little "Spot" can set you back quite a bit.

How can you save some money and still provide the best for your pet? Here are ten easy tips:

Pet Food -

Any veterinarian will give you a recommendation on pet food. Problem is, it's usually the same expensive brand they have in their waiting room. Save money by shopping at the your local pet stores. Check prices at your local discount pet store and a variety of smaller, "mom and pop" stores. You may be surprised about the prices. If you must buy a certain brand of food or keep your pet to a certain diet, look online.

Purchase food in bulk. Buying the biggest bag of pet food available can save you money in the long run, when comparing "price per pound". If you're worried about spoilage or pests, use airtight containers (a large trashcan with a sealing top works well).

Read the back of the bag and follow the directions. Feeding your dog or cat the correct amount of pet food will not only stretch the food out further, but also assure your animal's longevity. Experts say that lean animals live longer.

Toys -

K.I.S.S. (a.k.a. Keep It Simple) - Your dog or cat won't care if they're playing with the latest and greatest toy. Your dog will be just as happy with a tennis ball and a couple inexpensive chew toys, as they would with the most expensive toy in the pet shop. Cats love feathers (bought at the local craft store) or the cheap jingle balls you can buy in bulk at discount stores.

Check out the flea market and garage sales for toys and equipment. Inspect them carefully before buying and clean well before giving to your pet.

Grooming & Veterinarian Care -

Check with your local veterinarian school, humane society or animal shelter. Some provide low costs services, like exams, vaccinations and spay/neuter clinics.

Compare prices - Prices will vary greatly in any area so call around.

DIY Grooming - Grooming costs have skyrocketed over the last few years. Save the money and gas by doing your own grooming at home. Baths can be done in your own bathtub or outside, with the garden hose. You can clip your animal's nails yourself with little hassle.

Brush often - brushing your cat or dog will help them stay cleaner and healthier, not to mention cut down on the amount of pet hair roaming around your house.

Some veterinarian offices offer "care packages", where you pay a monthly fee and all checkups, office visits and shots are covered. Investigate these carefully - if your pet rarely goes to the vet, then these packages may not be for you.