How To Save on Pet Care Costs During Inflation

To combat the social isolation aspects of the COVID-19 pandemic, many people got pets to keep them company. Unfortunately, inflation has made it impossible for some to keep the furry friends they acquired during the pandemic. Some people might have to move into smaller apartments, or apartments that don’t allow pets, forcing them to give up their animals. Or, the rising cost of pet supplies has simply gotten too high, and there’s no room left in the budget. It was reported in 2021 that people spent more than $123 billion on their pets. That number is only going up.

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Whether or not you’re experiencing inflation, caring for a pet can be expensive. But, there are ways for savvy shoppers to save on pet supplies so you don’t blow your budget on your new companion. Here are a few expert-approved ways to save.

Purchase Directly From Brand Websites

Lisa Porter, CEO of PawPurity and the owner of two dogs and a cat, recommends going directly to the websites of pet supply brands you like and purchasing there.

“The prices are cheaper than going through Amazon or Walmart online stores,” she said. “They can do this because online marketplaces charge the sellers so much. Plus, they often have specials going on that you don’t see at the larger online shopping centers.”

Buy in Bulk

“When you buy items in bulk, you’ll typically get a discount as a ‘reward’ for your large purchase,” said Charlotte Bryan, dog trainer and behaviorist and the owner of Paws, Claws & Tails. “This is often the cheaper way to go for items such as toys, food (that has a long shelf-life) and items that can be easily used up, broken or worn out. Plus, it saves you the cost of gas when you have to keep driving to the shop to replace one of your pet’s items.”

The best places to shop for bulk pet supplies are Amazon, Chewy, Costco and Sam’s Club, said Salman Aslam, head of marketing at the product review and comparison site MuchNeeded.

Buy Second-Hand Supplies

“You may not want to buy second-hand slobber-covered dog toys for your dog — that’s kind of gross! — but items such pet carriers, rabbit hutches, food bins and harnesses can often be bought for less than half the original price,” said Bryan, who herself owns three dogs, three turtles and eight guinea pigs.

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Repurpose Household Items You Already Own

If you get creative, you can repurpose items you already have around the house to avoid having to purchase new pet supplies.

“Have some old bowls in the kitchen or an oven tray? These could become dog water bowls,” Bryan said. “Have an old bath mat? Turn this into your dog’s travel blanket.”

Make Your Own Pet Food

“You can make pet food at home,” Aslam said. “There are a wide variety of recipes online, and when you use rice and meat, you get plenty of meals in one batch.”

Keep an Eye Out for Sales

“For sales and discounted supplies, Amazon and Chewy are the best places to watch,” Aslam said. “Occasionally you’ll see some of the other name-brand pet stores have good sales, and you can get even better deals if you’re part of their customer loyalty programs.”

Buy Pet Medication Online

Medications for your pet can be pricey.