25 helpful tips for saving money on pet expenses.

Pets play a huge part in so many peoples lives, some people might even consider them a member of the family. A number of studies have pointed out that pet owners have longer life spans than non pet owners. It's so unfortunate that tough times have forced many families to give their pets away to friends, family members and in the worst cases to already overcrowded animal shelters and pounds.

The good news is, caring for a pet doesn't have to be one of the biggest expenses on your budget, so long as you learn to be a money-savvy pet owner. Check out our of 25 comprehensive (and simple) tips for saving money on adopting a pet, veterinary care, toys and supplies, food and other pet essentials to be on your way to saving money on quality pet care today. 

1.  Go small-  Mice, hamsters, turtles, gerbils, rabbits and other smaller animals are cheaper, require less (if any) visits to a veterinarian, and don't need as much time and attention as cats and dogs do.
2. Compare food- Compare prices and ingredients on pet foods, you may be surprised. Many store brands have ingredient lists almost identical to that of a brand name. Make sure you do your homework and don't compromise quality.
3. Visit the pound- No need to spend hundreds or thousands getting a purebred puppy or kitten. The pets at the pound are in dire need of homes and just as loving. If you adopt here you will save money and a helpless animals life.
4. Print coupons- Click and print coupons for pet supplies from websites from both coupon sources and pet product manufacturers like  Purina, Coupon Craze, Cool Savings, Coupon Cabin , Give a Bowl and Doggie Coupon.
5. Vaccinate through the pound- If you ask them, they will refer you to a local SPCA branch or other animal welfare agency that will provide the vital vaccinations at a fraction of the cost the same vaccine would cost at a veterinarian.
6. Install a pet door- Allowing your pet to enter and exit the home this way cuts down on heating and cooling costs.
7. Get pet samples- Companies provide free, no strings attached samples of toys, food, and other pet goodies.
8. Explain your budget- Let your vet know the tight budget your on. Remember she is there to care about your pet's health and will most likely help you with some resources for reduced prices on things such as kitten vaccines and heart worm medications. She may even throw a few free leashes or feeding bowls your way.
9. Don't overfeed- To benefit your wallet, and your pet's health follow the feeding instructions on the package.
10. Go secondhand- Get toys, bowls, leashes and other accessories at flea markets, garage sales or thrift shops. Be certain to wash and sanitize the items thoroughly.
11. Shop at Petco- Apply for the Petco P.A.L.S. card, and get special offers, discounts and savings exclusive to card holding members each time you shop there.
12. Buy in bulk- Like every other essential, you save money in the long run when you purchase large packages.
13. Shop around for a vet- Call at least 3 different clinics to compare prices before deciding.
14. Don't skip out on treatments!- Skipping out on vaccines and treatments may save you some cash right now, but taking care of a health issue you could've prevented with a vaccination will much more in the long run, not to mention the pain and suffering little Lucky will go through.
15. Consider getting a pet insurance policy.- Is your kitty getting a little old? Fido have a laundry list of past health problems? Pet insurance, like any other insurance will cost you a monthly premium, but take care of problems without worry should they arise.
16. Go generic and save- Ask the veterinarian or animal health provider if they have a generic form of the medication available.
17. Leaving town? Get a house sitter- Forgo the overpriced doggy day care or kennel program in favor of a house and pet sitter that will come over to feed, water and play with your animal. Neighborhood teenagers would be more than happy to do the chore for $5-10 per day. Going this route also ensures that your pet gets individual and one-on-one attention. Pet sitters should visit every 1-2 days.
18. Spay and Neuter for less- The Humane Society of the United States and SpayUSA can help you find a local venue that will get the job done for a smaller fee than the veterinary clinic would charge.
19. Invest in quality products- Good quality, retractable leashes can last for several years, the same applies to pet brushes and beds.
20. Beyond the pet aisle- Puppies and grown dogs alike go through plush toys like theres no tomorrow. Why pay $12.00 for a stuffed mailman you'd find at a animal and pet specialty store when you could pay $2.00 for a teddy bear in the toy aisle?
21. Adopt adult animals- Adult animals are usually already potty trained. Save money on carpet cleaner (as well as your time and patience) and keep your deposit!
22. DIY grooming- A visit to the pet grooming salon costs around $40.00. Pick up a book on pet grooming, and save money by learning how to keep your pet in tip-top shape at home.
23. Tip from a pet groomer- One of my friends that is a pet groomer mentioned that many dogs that come into his grooming salon have nails so short, there is no need to trim them. He contributes this to an active lifestyle, where dogs are running, walking and playing frequently. The constant moving naturally keeps the nails trim, eliminating the need for costly nail care (average price for nail trim: $10)
24. Maintain health- Feed your animals properly, plan with them daily, and encourage an overall active lifestyle. Just like humans, healthy pets don't need healthcare as frequently.
25. Make treats at home- Not only will they be cheaper, they are healthier. Check out Gourmet Sleuth for homemade gourmet dog treats such as "Beefy biscuits" and and "Flea hater's dog biscuits". Cat owners should visit The Cat's Meow and learn to make tempting treats like "Salmon nuggets" and "Kitty's clam bake".