How to Save Money on Pet Care: 9 Inflation-Proof Tips

Over half of pet owners (52%) have skipped necessary veterinary care, with 70% of those citing cost as the main reason, according to the PetSmart Charities-Gallup State of Pet Care Study.

"Over the past few years, all costs associated with running a veterinary practice have increased. Staffing costs and medical supply costs have truly skyrocketed as we compete with other less stressful, more lucrative careers," says Denise Petryk, DVM, a veterinarian with experience in emergency and general practice, as well as industry and practice ownership.

This guide shares nine practical strategies to reduce your annual pet expenses through bulk buying, DIY grooming, and preventive care, plus helps you weigh the benefits of affordable pet insurance providers vs. an emergency fund during times of rising costs.

Key Insights

• Bulk buying and generic brands can cut food costs by 20-40% without sacrificing nutrition.

• DIY grooming saves $350-600 annually compared to professional services every 6-8 weeks.

• Preventive care costs under $50 yearly but prevents thousands in emergency treatment expenses.

• Pet insurance works best when purchased for young, healthy pets before conditions develop.

Why Pet Costs Keep Rising

Pet care expenses have skyrocketed, with veterinary costs jumping 9.8% in 2024 and pet food prices climbing 7.3%, according to the US Bureau of Labor Statistics. Equipment shortages, staff turnover, and supply chain problems continue pushing prices higher across the industry.

This creates a serious problem for pet owners: the average unexpected vet bill now costs $560, but only 52% of pet owners have enough emergency savings to cover it. Unexpected veterinary bills can be upwards of $ 2,000 for something as seemingly simple as vomiting and diarrhea.  When veterinary emergencies strike, many families simply can't afford the care their pets need.

How Much Money Can You Save on Pet Care Each Year?

This table breaks down potential annual savings from each cost-reduction strategy covered in this guide. The estimates are based on typical expenses for a medium-sized dog and show how much you can realistically save by switching to generic brands, learning DIY skills, and focusing on preventive care:

Savings estimates based on a medium-sized dog; actual amounts vary by pet size, location, and individual needs. Larger dogs and many purebreds have much higher expenses.

9 Ways to Save Money on Pet Care

1. Buy Food and Supplies in Bulk

Buying pet food, treats, and supplies in larger quantities can reduce per-unit costs by 15-30%. Focus on non-perishable items with long shelf lives, such as dry food, litter, and toys. Store bulk purchases in airtight containers to maintain freshness and prevent pest contamination.

Pro tip: Calculate unit pricing to ensure genuine savings, check expiration dates before buying large quantities, and ensure you have adequate storage space. Splitting bulk purchases with neighbors or friends can maximize savings while preventing waste.

2. Switch to Generic Brands

High-quality generic pet foods cost 20-40% less than name brands while providing the same nutrition. Many generic brands use similar ingredients and meet identical AAFCO nutritional standards. Some generic brands are identical to their name-brand counterparts.  "Many pets are easy keepers and can thrive on generic pet food produced by large, reputable manufacturers," explains Dr. Petryk. "Another excellent cost-saving strategy is to mix generic and brand-name foods during the gradual transition."

Pro tip: Compare ingredient lists and guaranteed analysis panels instead of focusing on brand names. Always transition foods gradually over 7-10 days to prevent stomach upset. Ask your vet before switching foods, especially if your pet has health issues or dietary restrictions.

3. Use Sales and Loyalty Programs

Using coupons, introductory offers, and loyalty programs can provide meaningful savings on pet supplies. Most major pet retailers’ loyalty programs, such as PetSmart Treats, Chewy Autoship, and Pet Supplies Plus Rewards, generally offer ongoing discounts of 5–15%, with occasional promotional deals or first-purchase coupons that may temporarily provide savings of 25% or more. 

By stacking coupons with sale prices and taking advantage of special events, savvy shoppers may cut costs by up to 25–35% on specific orders, though this level of savings is not typically sustained throughout the year for most purchases. Overall, regular participation in loyalty and rewards programs, plus careful coupon use, can still add up to meaningful annual savings on pet essentials.

Pro tip: Shop during major pet holidays (National Pet Day, Adopt a Pet Month) and back-to-school season when retailers typically offer their biggest annual promotions on pet supplies.

4. Learn Basic Pet Grooming

Professional grooming costs vary widely depending on your pet's breed, size, length of hair, and temperament, with yearly costs ranging from $300 to $1,000. Basic at-home grooming can reduce these expenses significantly while maintaining your pet's health and appearance.

Essential DIY Pet Grooming Tools

• High-quality pet clippers: Initial investment of $30-80 pays for itself after 2-3 professional grooming sessions

• Nail trimmers and files: Prevent expensive nail-related injuries and maintain paw health

• Dental care supplies: Regular brushing can prevent costly dental procedures later

• Bathing supplies: Pet-specific shampoos and conditioners designed for your pet's skin type

According to Dr. Petryk, DIY grooming becomes almost free after your initial equipment investment, with annual costs for clipper blades and supplies totalling about $100.

Pro tip: Start with short grooming sessions to help your pet adjust. Learn proper restraint techniques, or make a custom grooming hammock or hanging restraint harness at home. For nail trimming, master proper cutting techniques to avoid hitting the quick. When bathing, use lukewarm water and pet-specific shampoo—never use human products on your pet.

5. Make Your Own Pet Toys

Homemade pet toys and accessories can provide entertainment and enrichment at minimal cost. Simple projects like braided rope toys, cardboard puzzle feeders, and fleece tug toys cost less than $5 to make compared to $15-25 for store-bought equivalents.

Easy DIY Pet Toys Ideas

• Frozen treat toys: Fill Kong-style toys with peanut butter and freeze for extended entertainment.  Fill a head of broccoli with a bit of peanut butter, freeze, and then feed.

• Cardboard puzzle feeders: Cut holes in boxes to create food-dispensing challenges that stimulate mental activity.

• Sock toys: Fill clean socks with rice or beans for safe, inexpensive play items.

• Catnip sachets: Grow your own catnip and create small fabric pouches for feline enrichment.

Pro tip: Before throwing away cardboard packaging from online orders, consider if it could become a puzzle feeder or hiding spot for treats—Amazon boxes work especially well for creating multi-level food challenges for cats.

6. Focus on Pet Prevention

Preventive pet care is the most cost-effective approach to veterinary expenses. Regular wellness visits, vaccinations, and dental care prevent expensive emergency treatments and chronic conditions.

Preventive Pet Care Strategies That Save Money

• Wellness plans: Many clinics offer monthly payment plans ($10-40/month) that spread routine care costs throughout the year.

• Dental hygiene protocols: Regular at-home dental care can prevent periodontal disease, requiring expensive professional treatment.

• Parasite prevention: Monthly preventatives cost less than treating flea infestations, heartworm disease, or tick-borne illnesses.

• Body condition monitoring: Maintaining a healthy weight prevents obesity-related conditions like diabetes and joint disease.

"Preventive pet dental care and hygiene protocols can help limit the need for costly tooth extractions. The cost of a dental cleaning can easily double if teeth need to be extracted. Check out the Veterinary Oral Health Council's webpage for their list of tested dental hygiene products and chew treats," says Dr. Petryk.

Pro tip: Schedule your pet's annual exam during your vet's slower months (typically January-March) when clinics often offer discounted wellness packages and have better appointment availability. As a bonus, February is National Pet Dental Health Month, making it an ideal time to address your pet's dental care needs.

7. Get Pet Insurance Early 

The best time to get pet insurance is early in your pet’s life. Premiums start at $15/month for young pets versus $60+ for seniors. Enrolling while your pet is healthy prevents future conditions from being excluded as pre-existing, and comprehensive plans typically reimburse 70-90% of eligible expenses.

"Pet insurance makes financial sense for breeds prone to health troubles. Doodles have life-long environmental allergies costing $200+ monthly, Dachshunds are prone to disc disease requiring $10,000+ emergency surgery, and male cats can suffer life-threatening urinary issues costing $5,000 or more," explains Dr. Petryk.

Key Factors to Consider When Buying Pet Insurance

• Pre-existing condition exclusions: Any health issues before enrollment are permanently excluded from coverage.

• Wellness vs. medical coverage: Basic plans cover accidents and illnesses, while wellness riders add routine care coverage.

• Deductibles and reimbursement rates: Higher pet insurance deductibles and lower reimbursement percentages reduce monthly premiums but increase out-of-pocket costs.

• Annual and lifetime limits: Understand maximum coverage amounts for budgeting purposes.

Pro tip: Read the fine print on pet insurance waiting periods. Some insurers have different waiting periods for accidents (usually 2-5 days) vs. illnesses (14-30 days), so time your enrollment accordingly if you're concerned about specific risks.

8. Use Low-Cost Pet Clinics

Community clinics, mobile vet services, and veterinary schools often provide quality care at reduced costs. These options can offer 30-50% savings on routine services like vaccinations, spay/neuter procedures, and basic health examinations.

Cost of Regular Practices vs. Low-Cost Clinics

Low-Cost Pet Clinic Options

• Veterinary teaching hospitals: Supervised student clinics provide comprehensive care at reduced rates.

• Mobile vaccination clinics: Convenient, affordable options for routine immunizations and basic health services.

• Spay/neuter programs: Many communities offer subsidized sterilization services to promote pet population control.

• Rural veterinary services: Practices in less populated areas often have lower overhead costs and more affordable pricing.

Pro tip: Ask your regular vet which low-cost clinics they recommend in your area—many private practice veterinarians have working relationships with reputable community clinics and can guide you to the best options.

9. Build Pet Community Support

Local pet communities can provide valuable resources for cost-sharing and mutual support. Neighborhood networks, online groups, and community organizations often facilitate pet care exchanges and resource sharing.

Pet Community Resources 

• Pet-sitting exchanges: Trade pet care services with neighbors to avoid boarding costs during travel.

• Pet food banks: Many communities operate food assistance programs specifically for pet owners facing financial hardship.

• Bulk buying groups: Organize neighborhood purchases of pet supplies to access wholesale pricing.

• Skill sharing: Exchange services like grooming, training, or pet photography with other pet owners.

Pro tip: Offer to pet-sit for neighbors during their vacations in exchange for the same service when you travel—this builds trust and can save hundreds on boarding fees throughout the year.

Pet Insurance vs. Emergency Fund: Which Is Better?

Pet insurance and emergency funds both protect against unexpected vet bills, but which works better depends on your pet's age, your budget, and how you prefer to handle risk. Here's how they compare.

Pet Insurance vs. Emergency Fund Comparison

How to Choose What's Right for You

• Pet's age and breed: Young, healthy pets benefit most from insurance, while older pets with existing conditions may be better served by emergency funds.

• Financial stability: Steady income supports insurance premiums, while variable income may favor flexible emergency savings.

• Risk tolerance: Insurance provides predictable costs, while self-insurance requires discipline and adequate savings.

According to Dr. Petryk, many pets never face major health issues, but modern veterinary medicine is both amazing and costly. "Insurance can provide excellent peace of mind for accidents, disease, or cancer. However, if your vet feels you have a lucky pet, a hefty savings plan may be the better choice, especially with emergency funding options like Care Credit available."

Frequently Asked Questions

Is generic pet food as good as brand names?

Yes, high-quality generic foods often use similar ingredients and meet the same AAFCO standards as premium brands. Compare ingredient lists and analysis panels instead of relying on brand names. Ask your vet before switching, especially for pets with health conditions.

When should I get pet insurance versus saving money?

Pet insurance works best for young, healthy pets before conditions develop. An emergency fund offers more flexibility if you can save $75-100 monthly and have multiple pets. Consider your pet's breed risks and your saving habits.

How much can DIY grooming really save?

Professional grooming costs $50-100 every 6-8 weeks, totaling $400-650 annually. DIY grooming needs a $50 initial investment in tools and costs about $30 yearly in supplies. You save $350-600 per year.

Are low-cost clinics safe?

Yes, reputable low-cost clinics and vet schools maintain high care standards while offering reduced prices. Vet school clinics provide supervised care from advanced students under faculty oversight. Research reviews and ask about supervision levels.

How much should you save for vet bills?

Most financial experts recommend saving $1,000-3,000 for pet emergencies, or about $50-100 monthly. The actual amount depends on your pet's age, breed, and health risks. Young, healthy pets need less emergency savings than senior pets or breeds prone to genetic conditions.

What happens when you can't afford pet care?

Contact your veterinarian about payment plans or ask about low-cost clinic options in your area. Many communities have pet assistance programs, and some veterinary schools offer reduced-cost care. Don't delay treatment—early intervention usually costs less than waiting until problems worsen.

What's the 50/30/20 rule for pets?

The 50/30/20 budgeting rule suggests spending 50% of income on needs, 30% on wants, and 20% on savings. For pet care, allocate 2-4% of your monthly income for routine expenses plus emergency savings. A household earning $5,000 monthly should budget $100-200 for pet care and emergencies.

What's the biggest mistake pet owners make when trying to save money?

Dr. Petryk warns against cheap over-the-counter flea and tick products: "These products don't work well and can lead to significant health troubles from bites, allergies, and tick-borne diseases. Purchase prescription flea and tick medicine, but ask your veterinarian for a prescription you can fill online after price shopping." 

The Bottom Line: How to Save Money on Pet Care 

These nine strategies can reduce your annual pet care costs by $400-1,330 without compromising your pet's health. Focus on prevention, smart shopping, and early financial planning to avoid costly emergencies later.

"Talk to your veterinarian about specific diseases your pet breed is prone to and plan accordingly—get insurance or start saving before trouble happens. Golden Retrievers get cancer, French Bulldogs suffer allergies, and male cats have urinary troubles. Be prepared," advises Dr. Petryk.

Compare top pet insurance providers to find the best fit for your pet's needs and your budget. Start by getting quotes from multiple companies and reading policy details carefully to ensure you understand exactly what's covered and what's not.

Methodology

We know pet care advice is only helpful if it's accurate and realistic for your situation. That's why we've combined real veterinary expertise, official industry data, and current market pricing to ensure that every tip and cost estimate in this guide reflects what you'll experience as a pet owner, not just theoretical numbers.

• Cost data sources: All veterinary cost estimates in this article are based on real-world practice experience from Dr. Denise Petryk, DVM, Relief Veterinarian with experience in both emergency and general practice, industry, and practice ownership. Cost ranges reflect typical pricing observed in her clinical practice and may vary by geographic location and specific veterinary facility.

• Savings calculations: Pet care savings estimates are compiled from consumer pricing data, veterinary industry reports, and professional experience. Savings percentages represent typical reductions achievable through the strategies outlined in this article and may vary based on individual circumstances, pet size, and regional pricing.

• Industry statistics: Pet care cost inflation data is sourced from the US Bureau of Labor Statistics and the American Pet Products Association, the industry's primary organizations tracking market data and consumer trends.

• Verification process: All claims and recommendations in this article have been reviewed by our veterinary expert for accuracy and clinical relevance. Cost estimates are presented as ranges to account for regional variations and individual case complexity.