How to save money while owning a Maltipoo
Dogs are awesome! The love and companionship are indisputable. But as a culture it seems that we have gotten out of control with the amount of money that we spend on our furry companions. By the time you add up the cost of your all organic food, treats, grooming visits, dog walkers, trainers, vet bills, etc. you will be spending a small fortune! Here are some easy tips in order to cut costs and keep a few more dollars in your pocket.
1) Humane Society instead of the veterinarian:
Visit your local Humane Society, they offer many of the same services as a veterinarian at a fraction of the price. Most offer vaccinations, microchipping and spay and neuter surgeries for a lot less and they're just as good as your veterinarian. But they do not offer exams, so you'll still need to visit your vet for a good annual exam.
2) Nutritious dog food that is not organic:
Puppy/dog food can be a pricey recurring expense. Check labels and read reviews, many foods can provide your dog with the healthy balance they need at a less expensive price. Many organic brands are going to cost you a lot more. Check out Costco brand or other generic brand foods. Also talk to your vet, but many of these foods can provide your pup with the nutrition she needs at a fraction of the price.
3) Homemade treats and bone alternatives:
This is a big expense that you probably don't tabulate unless you are a meticulous budgeter. You simply buy a bag of treats here, bones there, a new toy here and there. They all add up and are not cheap. Instead try a simple recipe from Pinterest. A great alternative to constantly buying expensive bones or bully sticks is to buy a Kong and stuff it with new things that will entertain your dog for longer and cheaper.
4) DIY dog puzzles:
Dog puzzles are fantastic to engage and slow your dog down during meal time. It keeps them healthy and entertained, but they can also be expensive ranging from $25 - $50. Get creative and start making them on your own. Grab an old muffin tin and put some dry dog food or treats in each muffin cup. Then cover each up with different objects like tennis balls, toys, etc. Let your dog try and figure out how to remove each object and get to her food. She will be engaged and take a bit longer to eat her meal.
5) Grooming:
Maltipoo owners must brush their pups almost every day to keep them clean and mat free. But if you really want to cut costs, learn how to de-mat your pup, wash and even trim her coat yourself. There are various YouTube videos and grooming kits that come with videos that can help you master this intimidating task. It could save you over $800 a year!
6) Dog walking:
One of the benefits of owning a pup is that you get to walk it and this can keep you in shape, but finding the time can be difficult. Some people hire a dog walker which is great if it's in your budget, but it can be expensive, $20 per 30 minute walk. So in order to save yourself lots of cash try to walk before and after work. You can also arrange "playdates" with other dogs if you know your pups get along and have a fenced in yard to play in. An hour playdate can be great exercise for your pup if they chase and play well together. Rover is a great site that you could join for free and become a dog walker or host for other peoples' dogs and could make some money from taking care of their pups.
Remember that dog ownership doesn't have to be expensive. It may require more time and learning some new skills, but you can save some money and learn a few new things as well!
1) Humane Society instead of the veterinarian:
Visit your local Humane Society, they offer many of the same services as a veterinarian at a fraction of the price. Most offer vaccinations, microchipping and spay and neuter surgeries for a lot less and they're just as good as your veterinarian. But they do not offer exams, so you'll still need to visit your vet for a good annual exam.
2) Nutritious dog food that is not organic:
Puppy/dog food can be a pricey recurring expense. Check labels and read reviews, many foods can provide your dog with the healthy balance they need at a less expensive price. Many organic brands are going to cost you a lot more. Check out Costco brand or other generic brand foods. Also talk to your vet, but many of these foods can provide your pup with the nutrition she needs at a fraction of the price.
3) Homemade treats and bone alternatives:
This is a big expense that you probably don't tabulate unless you are a meticulous budgeter. You simply buy a bag of treats here, bones there, a new toy here and there. They all add up and are not cheap. Instead try a simple recipe from Pinterest. A great alternative to constantly buying expensive bones or bully sticks is to buy a Kong and stuff it with new things that will entertain your dog for longer and cheaper.
4) DIY dog puzzles:
Dog puzzles are fantastic to engage and slow your dog down during meal time. It keeps them healthy and entertained, but they can also be expensive ranging from $25 - $50. Get creative and start making them on your own. Grab an old muffin tin and put some dry dog food or treats in each muffin cup. Then cover each up with different objects like tennis balls, toys, etc. Let your dog try and figure out how to remove each object and get to her food. She will be engaged and take a bit longer to eat her meal.
5) Grooming:
Maltipoo owners must brush their pups almost every day to keep them clean and mat free. But if you really want to cut costs, learn how to de-mat your pup, wash and even trim her coat yourself. There are various YouTube videos and grooming kits that come with videos that can help you master this intimidating task. It could save you over $800 a year!
6) Dog walking:
One of the benefits of owning a pup is that you get to walk it and this can keep you in shape, but finding the time can be difficult. Some people hire a dog walker which is great if it's in your budget, but it can be expensive, $20 per 30 minute walk. So in order to save yourself lots of cash try to walk before and after work. You can also arrange "playdates" with other dogs if you know your pups get along and have a fenced in yard to play in. An hour playdate can be great exercise for your pup if they chase and play well together. Rover is a great site that you could join for free and become a dog walker or host for other peoples' dogs and could make some money from taking care of their pups.
Remember that dog ownership doesn't have to be expensive. It may require more time and learning some new skills, but you can save some money and learn a few new things as well!
