Four-legged friends are the best, aren't they?! But those vet bills….woof! If you want to learn how to save money at the vet, you're in the right place. We've got nine easy tips that will keep more cash in your pocket!
If you have a pet, you know those furry friends can wreak havoc on a budget, especially when it comes to any surgery or veterinary services! But we've got good news, Freebs. Frugal living and pet ownership can go hand in hand.
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We've got tips and tricks that will help you spend a whole lot less at that next appointment! So if you've ever wondered how to save money at the vet, wonder no more. Keep on reading because we have nine secrets to share.
HAVE YOUR PET SPAYED OR NEUTERED
Any The Price is Right fans in the house? Well, tip numero uno is a nod to Bob! As it turns out, getting your furry friends spayed or neutered is the #1 easiest way to save money at the vet. It may seem expensive upfront, but think of how much more it costs for your pet to have a litter! Do the math. You'll be shocked.
Want to save some money on the procedure? Head to your local Humane Society orshelter. In some cases, the Humane Society charges about half the amount the vet would! And don't worry, your little buddy will get pawsome, loving care. Nonprofits and shelters are usually staffed with completely competent and qualified volunteers who give their time out of love for animals.
STAY UP TO DATE ON VACCINES
Sometimes you have to spend a little money to save money. That's 100% true when it comes to vaccines! Yes, vaccines cost money, but a sick animal costs much, much more. Trust us! Whatever you do, make sure to keep your pet's vaccines up to date.
Can't afford the prices at the vet? Get your vaccines cheaper at a Humane Society, shelter, or another low-cost, non-profit animal care program. Once again, you'll find great vets there, and the cost is much lower.
ONE OF THE BEST WAYS TO SAVE MONEY AT THE VET? ASK!
Never, ever be afraid to ask for a discount! Frugal people make the most of every dollar. Feeling shy? Try one of these conversation starters:
- “Are you running any discounts right now that I could take advantage of?”
- “Is there any way you could come down on that price just a bit?”
- “Do you offer a discount for patients who pay in-full using cash?”
You never know! Some vets even offer discounts for Tuesday or Wednesday appointments. So, don't be afraid to ask! Your vet won't think less of you. We promise!
SAVE MONEY AT THE VET BY BUYING PREVENTATIVE MEDS ONLINE
Just like it's important to keep your pets up to date on their shots, you need to make sure they're on a regimen of regular flea, tick, and heartworm preventatives, too. Yes, we know those little pills can be dang expensive, but treatment for heartworms costs thousands. And getting fleas out of your sofa? You don't even want to go there!
Here's an easy way to cut your vet bill in half. Instead of stocking up on those pills at your yearly checkups, order those pet prescriptions online! Chewy.com offers an online pet pharmacy, and their prices are significantly lower than you'd find at the vet or a brick-and-mortar pet shop. You can also subscribe to get your pet's meds delivered straight to your door, so you never run out, and you automatically get 5% off every order if you set it up for their auto-ship program!
If you're new to Chewy, you can save 20% off your first pharmacy order! Just use the code RX20 when you checkout.
DON'T BE AFRAID TO LET YOUR VET KNOW YOU'RE ON A BUDGET
And on that note, there's no shame in letting your vet know that you're on a budget. Make it clear that you're price-sensitive. We've had to do this a time or two. For example, after spending more than $1,000 on an unexpected procedure for our pup, we were feeling a little strapped for cash. So, at his follow-up appointment, we politely let the girls at the front desk know. Here's what you can say:
“I just wanted to let you know that we are pretty cost-sensitive right now because our budget has been maxed lately for Rover's care. We want him to get better, and that's our top priority, but we will need to find the most cost-effective options available to be able to continue giving him the care he needs.”
If your vet is good, he will understand and will have the care of your animal first in his mind and do all he can to help you afford wonderful care!
REFER A FRIEND
Did you know that most vets offer a referral program? Yup! Ask your local vet about their policy. Many offer discounts or freebies just for sending new business their way. So, if you love your vet, be loud and proud about it!
Tell your friends at church, other parents at your kiddo's school, or post on Facebook and Nextdoor. Make sure to tell your friends to let the vet know that you referred them! 😉 That's easy money in your pocket for minimal effort, and you're doing a good deed by helping your friends find good care for their pets, too.
TAKE YOUR PET TO A VET SCHOOL CLINIC
If your local college or university has a veterinary degree program, call them and find out if they ever hold clinics. Most vet students are required to provide hands-on care before they can graduate, and their services are sometimes free!
Helping a vet student achieve their dreams is not just a good deed; it's also a great way to save TONS of money on your vet bills. And anyone who's studying to become a vet loves animals, so you can rest easy knowing they'll take the best care of your pet.
KEEP YOUR PET FIT & HEALTHY TO SAVE MONEY AT THE VET
In general, take good care of your pet so they stay healthy. Keep them vaccinated, give them lots of exercise and love, and they will stay healthy and happy! Just like humans, pets need regular baths, mental stimulation, good meals, and love.
Take good care of your furry family members so they'll stay healthy and happy! Preventive care is often the best medicine. You'd be surprised how much of a difference a daily 30-minute walk can make.
CONSIDER PET INSURANCE
Okay, this tip may be a little controversial, and it's definitely a personal decision! Pet insurance isn't for everyone, but it might be worth considering if you have an older or special needs pet.
In general, average pet insurance coverage costs about $30-$40 per month. If you like to stick to a fixed monthly budget and want to know exactly how much you'll be spending on your pet each month, this could be a great option! Pet insurance also offsets the cost of pricey procedures and unexpected expenses, so it can end up saving you a ton if you need it.
Some employers even offer pet insurance as a perk now, so ask your HR department! You may be able to get your pets covered for half off or even free. If you have the ability to get pet insurance at a discount, it's a no-brainer!
HOW DO YOU SAVE MONEY AT THE VET?
Having pets is well worth the money, but that doesn't mean you need to bust your budget when you become a pet owner! So hopefully, these tips will help you save a little money at your next vet appointment.
Do you have other tips to add to the mix? Leave them below, and be sure to let us know all about your pets, too! How many do you have and what are their names? Spill the deets in the comments!
Want to save even more money? Here are more of our best money-saving tips:
- Learn how to score the best deals when thrift shopping!
- You don't have to spend an arm and a leg on nice hair products. Learn how to save money on hair care!
- Learn all about our 3-Month Rule (aka the best way to save money).
Have a pawsome day!
