Pets are a big part of our families, and we want to make sure they are happy and healthy. But sometimes, the cost of caring for them can be costly. Here are a few tips on how to care for your pets in a budget friendly way:
Look into pet insurance. Pet insurance can help you cover the cost of unexpected veterinary bills. There are many different plans available, so be sure to shop around and compare rates before you choose one. Don’t forget to reach out to your preferred veterinarian office to make sure they accept the insurance. They may even offer their own options for pet insurance in house.
Sign up for automatic shipments. A ton of websites offer discounts for signing up for automatic shipments of your pet supplies. Chewy & Amazon offer savings over time while using their auto ship features. These can be easily cancelled or adjusted to fit your pet’s needs. I personally use Chewy for my cat’s food since no stores around me offer it and receive his food every 4 weeks to my doorstep.
Research the best food for your pets’ needs. There are so many different options for pet food that it can be hard to decide what’s best. Older cats and dogs’ benefit from senior focused food to help with their aging and continue to keep them healthy. Quality food will help your pet stay healthier and age gracefully. Keeping them out of the vet’s office and happy in your home. Cheaper options may be better for your wallet but can potentially cause more health issues down the line due to poor nutritional benefits. Speak with your veterinarian to see what you should focus on for your pet’s health and the best options to look into. I personally really like Hill’s Science Diet option for my cat Lucas. He has entered into his senior years, and I want to focus on getting him the proper nutrients he needs to stay health and active even as he ages.
Stay up to date on regular check-ups and vaccinations. Even if your pet seems healthy, it's important to take them to the veterinarian for regular check-ups. This will help your veterinarian catch any problems early on, when they are easier to treat. Vaccinations are an important part of keeping your pet healthy. They can help protect your pet from a variety of diseases. Be sure to get your pet vaccinated according to the schedule recommended by your veterinarian.
Brush your pet's teeth. Brushing your pet's teeth is an important part of keeping their teeth clean and healthy. Be sure to brush your pet's teeth at least twice a week. Dental treats and toys are also good options to help maintain healthy teeth. Professional cleanings from your veterinarian can help prevent diseases, keeping them from more serious and costly issues in the future. Speak with your veterinarian to see if this is a good option for your pet’s health. 
Spend time with your pet. One of the best ways to care for your pet is to spend time with them. They need your love and attention. Be sure to spend time playing with your pet and cuddling with them. Exercise is a great way to spend quality time with your pet as well. It is important for your pet's physical and mental health. Be sure to give your pet plenty of exercise each day.
By following these tips, you can help ensure that your pet is happy and healthy without breaking the bank. Keeping your beloved pet happy and healthy should be a top priority and small changes can help achieve these goals without hurting your wallet. Budgeting for annual veterinarian visits and procedures throughout the year can help relieve some of the monetary stress when those unexpected visits unfortunately happen.
