Save Money On Pet Care

When it comes to pet care, keep in mind that an ounce of prevention may be equal to a pound of cure. Here are a few suggestions to help you save somey to put to your debt settlement negotation.


Spay and Neuter

Animals that are not spayed or neutered may be more likely to suffer health and behavioral problems. Contact your local Humane Society or shelter, explain your financial situation and see if they can offer resources. Many municipally-operated animal shelters in the U.S. offer free or low-cost spay/neuter and vaccination programs.

Keep Pets Restrained

When pets are controlled and out of harm's way, they are less likely to suffer injuries or contract diseases that could harm their overall health.

Consider keeping your cat indoors. If you own a dog, make sure it is always on a leash, in a fenced area or under responsible supervision.

Groom Pets At Home

Be prepared to ask your vet or other professional about proper ways to trim your pet's nails at home to save money. Consider giving your pet a bath at home. Brush your dog or cat's fur regularly to avoid hairballs, and consider brushing your pet's teeth at home as well. According to Parade Magazine, brushing your pet's fur and teeth yourself may prolong time between visits to the groomer.

Dental chews are available that are formulated to control buildup on your pet's teeth. Ask for these at your local pet retailer. It might also be a good idea to check that the treats are accepted by the Veterinary Oral Health Council (VOHC).

Your local library could be a great resource for grooming guides or check for tips on the Internet.

Shop Smart

Eliminating extras like pricey carriers, expensive treats or fashionable 'doggie' couture can really make a difference.

Toys are important for pet exercise and activity, but they don't necessarily have to cost a lot of money. Someone with a little creativity and basic sewing skills can make accessories or soft toys such as a simple catnip pouch.

Information Overload

Technology is everywhere and our options are endless. It is possible to enjoy the benefits of technology without spending a lot of money. When you see an interesting electronic product or fun gadget, you may want to take time to think about how necessary that item would be in your daily life.

Cell Phones

Some current cell phone plans offer extras like texting, ringtones, games, video and camera capability.

These extras can be enjoyable, but ask yourself if you really need them. Texting, ringtones, and games can add up to $10 per month or more to your phone bill according to Womansday.com.

Consider choosing a plan that fits your basic needs. Woman's Day also suggests looking for free games and ringtones on the Internet. Websites such as Phonezoo.com and Myxer.com might be a good place to start.

If you already have an iPhone, you may have access to free software that will help you manage your budget and save money. According to The Wall Street Journal, Yowza!! combines a Global Positioning System (GPS) with coupons for nearby retailers.

If you need a cell phone but don't want to sign a lengthy contract with one service provider, prepaid cell phones might be an option.

Free Software Ideas

Here are a just a few other software suggestions from PCMag.com. The site releases a yearly review of over 100 free software options which may be worth your time to check out.


Open Office (www.OpenOffice.org) includes a word processing and spreadsheet software, HTML document generation and PDF document generation.

Google Docs (docs.google.com) offers free browser-based document and spreadsheet software.

Gimp (www.gimp.org) is an Image Manipulation Program featuring photo retouching, image composition and image authoring capabilities.

Know Your Stuff (www.knowyourstuff.org) is an online site where you can inventory everything you own. You can even include digital photos of your possessions or scanned purchase receipts.

Geni (www.Geni.com) allows genealogists to plug in their family tree. This web application makes it easy for everyone in the family to view information and share stories, photos and facts of their own.

Office Web, a free version of Microsoft Office suite, will include the Office word processing application, Excel spreadsheet, PowerPoint presentation software and OneNote message pad when it becomes available soon.