Five ways to manage the cost of owning a pet

Owning a pet brings immeasurable joy and companionship, but it’s no secret that being a responsible pet owner comes with financial responsibilities.
The costs can add up very quickly, from food and veterinary care to toys and grooming.
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However, there are plenty of ways to keep expenses in check without compromising the well-being of our furry friends. Here are five: 
One of the most significant ways to save costs upfront is by adopting a pet from a shelter or rescue organisation. Adoption fees are typically much lower than the prices associated with purchasing a purebred animal, and most adopted pets will come to you de-sexed, microchipped, vaccinated and wormed. Additionally, adopting a pet saves a life and gives a loving home to an animal in need.
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Get creative and make DIY toys and enrichment activities for your pet. Repurpose household items or use safe, low-cost materials to create engaging toys and puzzles.
Always supervise your pet during playtime with DIY toys. Inspect them regularly for any signs of wear and place them out of reach between play sessions.
1. Cardboard box castle: Transform a simple cardboard box into an elaborate castle for your cat. Cut out windows and doorways, stack boxes to create towers. Add blankets or pillows inside for a cosy retreat.
2. Interactive feather toy: attach feathers to a string or stick. Cats love to chase and pounce on moving objects, and this simple DIY wand provides endless entertainment.
3.Toilet roll treat puzzle: Collect a few empty toilet paper rolls and fold the ends closed. Place small treats inside some of the rolls and let your cat enjoy the challenge of finding and retrieving the treats.
1. Braided rope toy: Cut an old t-shirt or tea towel into long strips. Braid the strips together tightly and tie knots at each end. This DIY rope toy is great for interactive play and tug-of-war with your dog.
2. DIY scent game: Collect several small boxes or containers. Place a treat inside one of the containers and mix them up. Encourage your dog to find the container with the treat using their sense of smell.
3. Muffin Tin Puzzle: Place small treats or pieces of kibble in the cups of a muffin tin. Cover each cup with tennis balls or toys. Your dog needs to figure out how to remove the balls to find the hidden treats.
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Learning to groom your pet at home can help you save money, but please research and learn about the specific grooming needs of your pet’s breed or coat type, including brushing, bathing, nail trimming and ear cleaning.
Invest in high-quality grooming tools such as brushes, combs, nail clippers, and shampoos. Consult with a professional dog groomer or veterinarian for guidance as grooming must be done correctly to avoid unnecessary pain or discomfort.
Take the time to compare prices of pet supplies, including food, toys, and accessories. Purchasing items in bulk, such as pet food or cat litter, can also help save money over time. Look for sales, discounts, or online deals to find the best value for your money.
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Pet insurance is a valuable investment that can save you significant money in the long run. Pets can experience unexpected health issues or accidents that require immediate veterinary care, and these situations often come with hefty medical bills.
Pet insurance can give you peace of mind knowing that your beloved pet will receive the necessary medical attention without giving you financial worries.
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