When you become a pet parent, you learn two universal truths: 1) there’s no such thing as too many toys or treats, and 2) the cost of caring for a pet can get expensive–fast. From routine check-ups to those surprise vet visits, the sticker shock of unexpected expenses can leave your wallet spinning. And with the cost of living steadily on the rise, how can you stay on budget while making sure your furry family gets the care they need?
The best way to avoid major expenses later is to be prepared for the costs that come with pet ownership. By investing in your pet’s health early, you can reduce the risk of surprise bills down the line. Below are some smart, budget-friendly ways to support your pet’s long-term well-being, plus affordable options for handling those unexpected vet visits.
1. Plan Ahead: Budget Smart & Explore Pet Insurance
They say knowledge is power, and that also applies to pet care! The more informed you are about the monthly costs associated with owning a pet, the better prepared you will be to cover them. So, make a list of monthly pet expenses (like food, vet visits, and grooming), and create a budget you can stick to. With guardrails in place, you will feel more in control of your money and better equipped to prevent runaway spending.
Of course, issues like broken bones and bite wounds can’t always be factored into the monthly budget—and that’s where pet insurance comes in. When your pet has an unexpected accident or illness, pet insurance can help mitigate the cost of unexpected vet bills. Coverage varies by insurance provider, so take the time to research your options and select the right policy for you and your furry friend. Your pet and your wallet will thank you later!
2. Prevention First: Don’t Skip Wellness Visits
Investing in preventative care for your pet is one of the most effective ways to prevent more costly treatments down the line. So, don’t neglect those routine visits with your primary vet! Staying up-to-date on your pet’s vaccines and ensuring they receive regular dental care can ward off serious diseases that may cost hundreds to thousands of dollars to treat. Many primary veterinary clinics also offer cost-effective wellness plans to make routine pet care even more affordable.
You can also continue regular wellness care at home by regulating your furry friend’s diet and exercise. Obesity-related issues like diabetes, arthritis, and ACL tears can be costly to treat, but preventative measures don’t have to cost a penny. For example, you can use a measuring cup to portion your pet’s food and schedule daily walks or backyard fetch sessions. Remember to ask your primary vet for a target weight to ensure your pet is staying within a healthy range.
3. Know Your Pet’s Breed, Avoid Surprise Vet Bills
Different breeds carry different health risks. Taking the time to understand your pet’s breed can help you detect problems early and be more prepared to cover the cost of treatment. For example, if you learn that your dog is more prone to autoimmune disorders, or that your cat is more likely to have digestive problems, you can work with your primary vet to create a customized plan of preventive care while also budgeting for future treatments.
4. Be Emergency Ready: Locate a Reliable Pet Urgent Care in Advance
Of course, no matter how diligently you look after your pets’ health, unexpected issues can still arise. When they do, be prepared. Taking your pet to urgent care is an affordable way to access quality care, without the emergency room price. As a pet owner, you should have convenient access to care when you need it.
AcutePet is open seven days a week from 10 AM to 10 PM, offering same-day, emergency-level care in a calm, urgent care setting. Pricing is built with today’s economy in mind, meaning you can access quality care for your dog or cat without feeling overwhelmed with the financial burden. If you have pet insurance, AcutePet is happy to provide any necessary assistance to aid in the submission of claims.
As AcutePet continues to grow, one thing stays constant: our commitment to restoring pet health, reducing stress on pet owners, and keeping care affordable and easy to access, one visit at a time.
Learn more about the locations we serve, conditions we treat, and how you can book a same-day appointment.
