5 WAYS TO SAVE ON HOME PET SUPPLIES |
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| Outfitting your home with all the essential stuff your pet needs to stay happy and healthy is expensive. In fact, basic pet supplies may cost as much as several hundred dollars annually. But the good news is it's possible to cut costs while still providing your pet with all the stuff they need by shopping smarter and getting a little creative. Here are some tips on how to cut cost on your pet supplies: |
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Basic Pet Supplies
Watch for sales and clearances at big box discount and pet supply chains (both locally and online) for everyday pet stuff like collars, leashes, litter pans, scratching posts and bowls. A new crate, especially for large sized breeds, costs big bucks, so scour garage sales, thrift stores and online classified ads (including Craig's List) for a used one. Always clean and disinfect secondhand stuff, though, to prevent diseases from being transmitted to your pet.
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Pet Food
For the best savings, purchase pet food in bulk, making sure to store dry kibble in an airtight container to keep it fresh. And don't forget about clipping pet food coupons. At one time it was difficult to find these money savers, especially on the more expensive brands, but as the economy continues to sour, manufacturers are increasingly offering online and print coupons. Tip: If you can't find pet food coupons for your favorite brand, write or call the manufacturer.
To cut costs further on stuff for your pet, forgo purchasing treats and give your pet fresh veggies instead, such as carrots or broccoli. They're not only cheaper but healthier too.
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Pet Cleaning Costs
Deodorizing sprays, powders and candles only mask pet odors. Instead rid your home of unpleasant smells naturally and inexpensively by leaving windows open for a few hours, and washing pet bedding in warm soapy water each week.
To help save on supplies for cleaning pet hair, try the Swiffer Sweeper, a two-in-one system designed to both sweep and mop by using two types of cloths. Swiffer Sweeper dry cloths pick up 50 percent more dust, dirt and hair than a regular broom. And less pet fur in your home means less pet fur on your clothes and furniture as well, which saves even more on cleaning costs.
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Pet Grooming and Pet Grooming Supplies
You don't need to hire a professional to keep your dog looking his best. Of course, you'll initially spend money on supplies and grooming tools to do the job, but it won't take long to recoup those costs and realize a savings. (Many owners plunk down $400 or more annually for professional grooming services!)
If you're a little nervous about taking on this task, Petside.com has many free instructional videos on cleaning ears, trimming nails and much more. Petside.com also has beginning grooming guides for both cats and dogs.
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Pet Toys and Fun Pet Stuff
You don't need to be Martha Stewart to make homemade toys that'll keep your pets happily entertained. Anyone can do it with a little creativity. Transform old socks and shirts into pet tug toys by tying a few knots in the material. Another idea for fun pet stuff is to turn empty cardboard tubes (from paper towel or toilet paper rolls) into food puzzles by inserting a treat inside, and pinching the ends closed. Large paper bags make great playhouses for kitties to climb inside and hide. Homemade pet toys can keep pets just as happy as expensive, manufactured toys, while saving you money.
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