With the cost-of-living crisis biting, the comfort provided by companion animals such as dogs and cats are needed more than ever.

But as every responsible pet parent knows, looking after the precious fur babies involves a few costs.

Mounting bills and relentless expenses mean just one thing: getting more out of every dollar is absolutely necessary.

In that spirit, pet insurance specialist PD Insurance says there are a few ways pet owners can manage expenses, without compromising on care.

“It’s tough times out there for many pet lovers, which means doggy and kitty cuddles are in big demand by stressed pet parents,” comments Michelle Le Long, Chief Operating Officer for pet insurance specialist PD Insurance.

“We know from Companion Animals NZ research that people have pets regardless of any financial strain; however, the same research also shows this can force decisions that aren’t in the pet’s best long-term welfare interests.”

You can reduce the costs

Michelles says it’s heartening that most pet parents resolutely won’t ditch their pets in the face of financial adversity.

“That’s a great thing. Bringing a dog or cat into the home is a long-term commitment that bonds the family and helps uplift its members; the pets are dependents and financial strife shouldn’t mean abandonment.”

With cutbacks in the household budget a reality for many, Le Long says there are ways to reduce the costs of providing quality care for your pets.

“Basically, run a ruler over everything and look for opportunities that don’t cost as much, or don’t cost anything at all.”

Grooming and exercise

The most obvious way to keep costs down is on grooming, exercise, and ‘doggy day care’. Brushing, clipping and doing daily walkies yourself rather than having a service provider can really chop down outgoings.

“Yes, this requires more effort, but most of us know that while the couch does call after a hard day’s mahi, the walk leaves us invigorated.”

With grooming, by investing in a suitable clipper and other basic equipment, most breeds can be kept looking great with ease.

“You can use online resources like YouTube for help, too.”

While doggy day care can be a necessity for some pups, it’s also one of the costlier ways of looking after a pet. Community Facebook pages can be an absolute godsend, with fellow local members often quite happy to help out for nothing more than appreciation.

Toys, entertainment, bedding

We’re inclined to splurge on our pets because our fur kids are part of the family who, like the human kids, also love treats and toys. The reality is they love attention and affection most.

Back in the pandemic days when many were taking strain, Healthy Pets NZ noted that simple cat toys can be constructed from household waste such as scrunched up paper on the end of a string, bottle tops, toilet rolls or egg cartons.

Scratching posts using old carpet are easily made, and pet bedding can be put together from old duvets or other linen.

Diet and healthcare

This is another potential biggie when it comes to costs. Healthy Pets NZ chair and veterinarian Dr Cath Watson notes that a happy, healthy pet is less likely to show up in her clinic and has tips for cutting food costs.

“Spend time grooming and pay attention to normal behaviour and appetite,” she says.

“This helps detect problems much earlier - the sooner you can act on a problem, the easier resolution usually is.”

Dr Cath advises registering in advance with a vet clinic and focusing on preventative care like vaccinations, neutering, and flea and worm treatments.

“The cost of treatment is always higher than prevention. If your pet requires long term medication, discuss financial concerns with the vet, as alternatives may be available.”

Dr Cath says that while premium brands may cost more, quantities can be lower due to quality ingredients. Going premium can make food go further.

She also notes dry biscuits (kibble) are much cheaper than wet food, saying, “you can always make a porridge just by adding water.”

Think carefully before taking on a pet

As New Zealand is in recession – and with many people facing uncertain employment prospects, it may not be the best time for adding a pet to the family.

Dr Cath says every pet parent should consider costs and the dog or cat’s life expectancy.

“Medical care costs tend to go up with age, but a good diet and exercise along with pet insurance mitigates these costs and can be included in a budget,” she says.

Adopting rather than buying is always a good idea. And know the breed – some need more grooming, vet visits, and exercise than others, all factors that can influence costs.

Finally, creating a ‘pet budget’ is illuminating for both existing and prospective pet parents.

“Research and write down all the costs associated with being a pet parent. Armed with a budget, you’ll have a clearer idea of how much money it takes, and you can manage the expenses better. It is tough out there – but our pets need to remain valued members of our families because they bring so much emotional and physical nourishment,” says Michelle.