Photo by Kampus Production via Pexels

by kevin gardner, guest contributor

The cost of pet supplies can add up quickly. Between food, treats, toys, and supplements, you can easily spend hundreds of dollars a month on each pet. Luckily, there are some simple ways to stretch your pet supply budget without compromising the quality of care. 

1. Shop Sales

Shopping for supplies when they are on sale is an excellent way to save extra money and help control pet care costs. If the results from Cyber Monday sales are any indication, there are millions of shoppers who agree. Take a quick look through weekly offers at your favorite stores to get an idea of what is on sale. Remember that an extra trip across town may negate any savings you see from a lower purchase price. If you can combine trips or find regular items at a slightly higher cost nearby, it may end up being cheaper in the long run. 

2. Sign Up for Subscription Services

If you want to eliminate trips for pet supplies altogether, take a look at some of the many subscription services available. You get everything from food and treats to toys and supplements delivered right to your door on a preset schedule. 

Subscriptions are excellent if your pet eats the same food all the time or if you need monthly refills on vitamins and treats. Most companies offer free shipping and a set discount on regular prices for items on your list. Some companies also let you add items on an as-needed basis to save on shipping costs. 

3. Make Your Own Food and Treats

When you make your own pet food, you can customize ingredients, so you know exactly what your fur baby is eating. This is extra important if he has allergies or food sensitivities. It is also an excellent way to ensure that your pet gets the freshest and most nutrient-dense ingredients possible. 

Making pet food and treats at home is a great way to save if you already buy premium products. However, the price tag can vary depending on what you add to each meal. For example, salmon will be more expensive than brown rice and vegetables. Luckily, you can choose what to add, so you have some control over the cost.

4. Clip Coupons

Coupons are an excellent way to get extra savings on products you use. They also help lower the risk when you are trying a new product with your pet. Coupons are available in print and digital formats. Many retailers let you save digital coupons to your account, so you don't have to do anything extra when shopping. Simply sign in and check out for savings on your pup's favorite treats.

5. Buy Items Off-Season

Seasonal items, like pet clothing and Halloween costumes, are often significantly cheaper right after their peak season. So, go ahead and grab a sweater as it is warming up in May, knowing that your dog will be cozy when the weather turns cool next fall. 

Of course, this strategy can only go so far. Items like food and treats have expiration dates that limit how long you can store them. Extra freezer space may prolong the shelf life for a while, but you will still want to be careful about freshness.

6. Think Outside the Box

Monthly boxes are subscription services that send supplies like treats and toys to your home on a set schedule. Most are assortments of seasonal or popular items, but others allow you to customize each order. Your pet gets to try a new variety of items each month and you get discount pricing. 

Shopping sales, using coupons and signing up for subscriptions are just a few ways to save on pet supplies. Making homemade pet food and shopping off-season are a couple more.

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