If you are a pet owner, you have to budget at least 1,500 dollars a year for your furry friend. Now, those with multiple pets, bigger pets, or pets that require more care should expect to spend even more than the standard estimation with projections ranging up to 10,000 dollars. Needless to say, vet bills are the factor that drives up pet-owning costs for most pet parents. However, there are ways to avoid larger vet bills, and it all begins with preventative maintenance. Start with these tips below, and you’ll be well on your way to saving extra money at the vet.
Take your pet in for regular check-ups.
Don’t skip your pet’s annual exam to save money. Yearly exams are a great way to detect problems early instead of waiting for big problems to show up, which, as you might have guessed, are much more expensive to correct than smaller issues. By staying up to date on your vet appointments, no matter how routine, your pet will enjoy continued health and smaller vet bills.
Feed your pet well.
High-quality pet food can be more expensive but will help keep your pet healthier throughout his or her life. This can save you money on health care costs. But, don’t mistake feeding your pet well for overfeeding your friend. Not only does this waste money, but it can cause obesity, which can then lead to costly health problems.
Spay or neuter your pet.
There are long-term benefits to spaying and neutering your pet, including a decrease in the risk of uterine, ovarian, and testicular cancer. Many local shelters offer low-cost or even free spay and neuter services. Call your local shelter to find out if you qualify for reduced-cost services.
Consider obtaining a pet insurance plan.
Finally, if you know that treating your pet’s injuries or illnesses would pose a financial hardship to you, you should consider purchasing pet insurance. Getting this coverage when your pet is healthy will ensure that you are able to meet your pet’s health care needs in the future. Just like purchasing insurance for yourself, you’ll feel some peace of mind in the long run.
Oxford at Estonia Apartments in San Antonio, Texas