Vet bills are one of the biggest stressors for new pet owners. While you can’t predict accidents, you can control how prepared you are. Here’s how to keep costs down without cutting corners.
Invest in preventative care
MoneySmart advises that regular exercise, a good diet and dental care can reduce vet bills over time. They recommend being upfront with your vet about your budget and asking about payment plans or community clinics. VetMed adds that routine check‑ups and vaccinations catch illnesses before they become expensive emergencies.
Our own blog on preventative vet care shows that early detection can mean the difference between a $300 clean and a $2,500 extraction, and reminds owners that obesity affects up to 40 % of pets.
Use insurance smartly
Choosing the right policy can reduce out‑of‑pocket costs without sacrificing coverage. PetsOnMe offers:
Annual payment discount: Pay annually and save 5 %.
Multi‑pet discount: Get another 5 % off when you insure more than one pet under the same policy.
Free months: Puppies and kittens (under one year) receive two months free, while older pets get one month free, ensuring early cover before conditions arise.
You can also adjust your excess to lower premiums, but remember that higher excess means paying more per claim.
DIY and community resources
MoneySmart suggests buying medication and food in bulk, learning basic grooming at home, and using telehealth or community clinics for non‑emergencies. VetMed echoes this, recommending a financial plan for pet care and exploring low‑cost services like vaccination days. Combined with a robust insurance policy, these strategies help you save without cutting corners.