As Pet parents we want nothing but the best for our furry companions, but sometimes our wallets just can’t keep up.
According to the 2022 Animal Medicines Australia Report, Australian Pet Owners are now estimated to be spending over $33 billion annually to keep our pets fed, healthy and well-accessorised. Food represents 51% of all expenditure.
But fear not, because we’re here to let you in on some savvy pet owner money-saving secrets that most pet websites won’t tell you.
- Swap Subscription Pet Food for Baby Food: Did you know you can snag pouches of baby food from your local grocery store for as little as $1.00 dollar each? Yep, you heard us right! These pouches are not only affordable but packed with all the nutrients your pooch needs to thrive. Keep an eye out for special deals. In comparison, pet food subscription programs can cost about $5 to $6 a day to feed a 10-kilogram dog. Over a 1 month period that can add up to $180.
2. Pay for your Pet’s previous Pet Sit, by Hosting a Pet Guest:
Counteract the cost of your pet’s last stay with a Sitter by completing some paid pet jobs. You can find thousands of paid part time work from home jobs across Australia on PetCloud’s Pet Jobs board. From offering home visits, dog walks, day care or in home pet sitting. Not only does it pay off your credit card from your holiday, but it also gives your fur kid a chance to socialize and make new friends. Talk about a win-win!
3. Choose Home-Based Pet Services over Fancy Dog Hotels & Centres:
Say goodbye to sky-high boarding fees and hello to affordable home-based pet sitting and doggy day care. Seriously, it’s a game-changer! Services like PetCloud connect you with police-checked, insured, and trained pet sitters who offer a cozy home-away-from-home experience for your furry friend starting at around $25 per night. In comparison, some Pet Hotels charge upwards of $110 per night. If you take a trip away for a week, that’s $770 you’re paying a dog hotel. Clearly, pet sitters are way easier on the wallet. Win-win!
4. Get Crafty with DIY Toys:
Who says you need to splurge on fancy toys? Get creative and make your own using household items like old socks, cardboard boxes, and empty water bottles. Not only is it budget-friendly, but it’s also a fun way to unleash your inner DIY guru. (Source: RSPCA Australia)
5. Prioritize Preventative Care:
A little prevention goes a long way when it comes to your pet’s health. Stay on top of Dental descales, vaccinations, flea and tick preventatives, and regular check-ups—it’s worth its weight in gold. Trust us, your future self (and your wallet) will thank you.
(Source: Australian Veterinary Association)
6. DIY Grooming
Who needs expensive grooming salons when you can channel your inner pet stylist at home? Invest in some basic grooming tools, watch a few YouTube tutorials, and voila! You’ll have your furry friend looking fresh without blowing your budget. Plus, it’s a great way to bond!
(Source: Australian Veterinary Association)
7. Scout Out Discounts and Deals:
Keep your eyes peeled for pet essentials on sale. Many online retailers and local pet stores offer promotions and loyalty programs that can save you a bundle in the long run. Sign up for newsletters, follow your favourite brands on social media, and be a savvy shopper—it pays off, literally!
(Source: Choice Australia)
So there you have it, folks—seven tried-and-true pet owner money-saving secrets to keep your furry friend happy and your bank account intact. Because let’s be real, being a pet parent shouldn’t mean going broke. Now, it’s over to you—have you tried any of these hacks? Got any other budget-friendly tips to share with fellow Pet Owners? Comment below! 👇
