25 Great Ways to Save on Pet Costs

Take these steps to cut costs on food, veterinary care, insurance and other expenses

Laura Petrecca,

AARP

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Published June 23, 2025

different types of pets surrounded by coins and bills

More than half of adults ages 50 to 80 own a pet, which can reduce stress and increase social interactions with others.

Jared Oriel

For many older adults, pets aren’t just pets — they’re beloved family members. And whether it’s a bird, boa or border collie, owners often splurge on their animal companions like they would on a child or grandchild.

More than half of adults ages 50 to 80 own a pet, with many buying gifts not only for dogs and cats but also for fish, hamsters, reptiles and other beloved companions.

Pet owners are shelling out for more practical reasons too, including food, medical care and grooming. Put it all together and the spending adds up. Rover, a marketplace for pet services like dog walking and boarding, estimates the lifetime cost of care at around $34,550 for a dog that lives to age 10, and $32,170 for a cat that lives to 16.

Yet the return on pet investment can be high, and for many people, the relationship is priceless.

A 2024 American Psychiatric Association survey found that pets can provide a calming presence, help reduce stress and anxiety, foster physical activity, add structure to a schedule and increase social interactions with others. That’s especially important for older adults at risk of social isolation.

A separate 2025 American Pet Products Association (APPA) survey found that more Generation X and boomers report happiness, emotional support and stress relief from having pets than millennials or Gen Z.

Thankfully, you don’t have to siphon your retirement savings to care for your furry, feathery or scaly friend. With some smart strategies, you can reap the benefits of pet ownership without it taking a huge bite out of your bank account.

1. Assess how much you’re spending

“One of the biggest mistakes pet owners make is not creating a budget for their pet expenses,” says APPA’s CEO Peter Scott. “It’s easy to underestimate how much you’ll spend on your pet, especially in the first year.” Planning ahead is especially important if you’re retired and living on a fixed income.

The ideal time to build a budget is before you bring your new companion home. If you’ve had your pet for years and haven’t kept tabs on costs, you will still benefit by crunching the numbers for your expenses. Use a simple spreadsheet, deriving costs from your bank and credit card statements, or a budgeting app such as EveryDollar, YNAB (short for “you need a budget”) or Monarch.

Add in a cushion for unexpected costs: Nearly 3 out of 4 pet owners say they’ve faced unexpected expenses of more than $250, a 2025 Synchrony survey found. “Accidents happen, and even something seemingly small can lead to an unplanned emergency vet visit,” says Scott. “Being financially prepared means you can act quickly and get your pet the care they need.” His rule of thumb: Set aside an extra 20 percent on top of your expected expenses for the first year to account for surprises. After the first year, aim to have $500 to $1,000 in your dedicated pet emergency fund, depending on your pet’s age, breed and health history. “You may want to set aside even more if your pet has a chronic health condition,” Scott says.

2. Buy in bulk — but note expiration dates

Two words: stock up. “If you belong to a warehouse store like Costco, Sam’s Club or BJ’s Wholesale Club, see if they carry your preferred brands of food, litter and other supplies,” suggests consumer savings blogger Trae Bodge. “When you buy in larger quantities, the price per unit decreases.” Buying in bulk also means fewer trips to the store, which can be beneficial if you have mobility issues or limited transportation options.

Amazon, Target, Walmart and other retailers also sell certain pet products in large quantities. If lifting heavy bags is difficult for you, look into home delivery, or ask a friend or family member to help.

There are a couple caveats. Don’t buy in bulk if you lack proper storage, which could very well be the case if you’ve downsized your home. Also, check expiration dates, advises Brandi Hunter Munden, vice president of public relations and communications for the American Kennel Club. You could wind up wasting money if perishables go bad before you use them.

3. Don’t overfeed

Twelve percent of dog owners and 17 percent of cat owners say their veterinarian considers their pet obese, according to APPA. “Just because you buy food in bulk doesn’t mean you should feed it in bulk,” says Ann Hohenhaus, senior veterinarian and director of pet health information at the Schwarzman Animal Medical Center in New York City.

If you overfeed, you’ll not only spend unnecessary money but could also put your pet’s health at risk. “The porky pet is at greater risk of diabetes, arthritis, urinary tract disease and certain tumors,” Hohenhaus says.

If your pet is overweight, work with your vet to determine the right food and calorie intake, adds veterinarian Lori Bierbrier, senior medical director of community medicine for the eastern region of the American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (ASPCA).

4. Consult your vet on high-end kibble

Quality pet food “does not need to be a boutique brand to be healthy,” says Bierbrier. Explore more affordable options, such as store brands, and look for products that meet the nutritional standards set by the Association of American Feed Control Officials (AAFCO). It’s best to consider the breed, age and special needs of your dog or cat and consulting your vet on whether the brand or brands you purchase are meeting those needs. Also, make sure to stay on top of recalls. To stay informed about pet food recalls, regularly check the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) website and the American Veterinary Medical Association (AVMA) website.

Thinking about making pet food from scratch? Think again, says Bierbrier: “It is very difficult to create a homemade diet that is nutritionally balanced, and it is often more expensive than store-bought foods.”

a dog in a bathtub surrounded by grooming tools

Learning basic grooming skills can help you save. Check out the ASPCA’s dog grooming and cat grooming guides, or check out YouTube for helpful tutorials.

Jared Oriel

5. Learn basic grooming skills

Grooming costs can certainly add up, with the average dog grooming notching $85, Bark.com reports, though prices vary, depending on your pooch’s breed and size. However, “Pet owners can save the price of a visit to a groomer with regular nail-trimmings and brushings,” says Bierbrier. Routine brushing at home “will reduce the amount of [pet] hair floating around.”

Brushing between professional grooming sessions can also help prevent matting. That’s another cost saver, as matting can lead to pricier grooming appointments, notes APPA’s Scott. For felines, combing or brushing daily can help avoid hairballs.

To improve your grooming skills, check out the ASPCA’s dog grooming and cat grooming guides. YouTube also has helpful tutorials.

6. Use subscription services

You can shave costs and stop schlepping to the pet store by signing up for subscriptions that provide discounts on recurring purchases like food, treats and medications. “Many retailers offer 5 percent to 10 percent off when you set up auto-shipments,” says Scott. You can usually skip or pause those recurring purchases when you don’t need replenishment.

Amazon, as well as pet-focused shops such as Chewy, Petco and PetSmart, are among the retailers that offer discounts on auto-ship orders.

7. Explore senior discounts and loyalty programs

Take advantage of discount programs for older adults from pet retailers and brands. For instance, pet food maker Verus offers deals for customers ages 65 and older, and some stores offer deals during “senior appreciation days,” such as the last Tuesday or Thursday of the month.

Also, look into store loyalty memberships that provide perks, discounts and reward points that can reduce the cost of food, treats, toys and other purchases. “Many of the major pet stores have loyalty programs and deals,” says Hunter Munden. “Some pet food companies also have loyalty programs and coupons that are offered on their sites and via their apps.”

8. Schedule annual checkups

A yearly wellness exam is good for your pet’s health. “Without an annual examination, your pet’s undetected illness can spiral out of control and might cost much more than an annual veterinary visit,” Hohenhaus warns.

Bierbrier agrees. “It’s much more expensive — and risky — to treat illnesses than to protect against them,” she says. “It’s also a good idea to shop veterinary practices by comparing fees and costs for preventative care.”

When scouting out veterinarians, ask if they offer senior discounts. And consider mobile vet services, which can provide affordable care and convenience.

9. Keep parasites at bay

Preventing fleas, ticks or internal worms is far less expensive than treating them, says Rebecca Greenstein, chief veterinarian at Kleinburg Veterinary Hospital in Vaughan, Canada, and a veterinary medical adviser for Rover.

“Flea and tick infestations can cause a host of costly medical problems, from minor skin irritations to life-threatening blood loss,” adds Bierbrier. “Prevention is key to getting ahead of the problem of potential infestation.”

Topical flea and tick solutions can be effective and affordable ways to keep pests at bay, but make sure to use the medications as directed. “Never use a product intended for a dog on a cat, or vice versa,” Bierbrier says.

Additionally, maintain a regular schedule to prevent heartworm disease, which is serious and potentially fatal. Dogs are more prone, though cats may contract heartworm as well. Most treatments are monthly — so talk to your vet about the best type for you dog or cat.

a person and a cat brushing their teeth together

Keeping your pet’s teeth in good shape can help you save on professional cleaning bills and prevent serious dental diseases.

Jared Oriel

10. Stay on top of dental care

“Start a regular dental routine to keep your pet’s teeth and gums healthy,” advises Bierbrier. Brushing your animal’s choppers, using tooth wipes and giving them dental treats can help you save on professional cleaning bills and prevent serious dental diseases, which can lead to heart and kidney problems and expensive procedures, she adds.

Some shelters, nonprofits and veterinarians offer professional dental cleanings at a discount on certain days. Bonus: You may also get tips on how to improve your pet’s at-home dental care.

“Local veterinary clinics and animal shelters may periodically host low-cost dental cleaning days, especially during Pet Dental Health Month in February, when there is increased awareness and outreach around dental care,” says Scott. “In addition, some clinics may promote special rates or bundle services for first-time patients.”

Some organizations may require you to demonstrate proof of financial need, such as submitting a paycheck stub, unemployment benefits or disability benefits, to qualify.

11. Don’t delay medical care

While you don’t need to rush your pet to the vet for every sneeze or scratch, delaying treatment for illnesses or injuries can lead to bigger problems — and bigger bills. “A common mistake I see owners make is waiting until a pet has been extremely unwell for a week or more before they come to see me for medical attention,” says Greenstein.

Postponing care can also lead to costly diagnostic exams and treatments, such as bloodwork, X-rays, ultrasounds or even hospitalization, ”all of which could have potentially been avoided had the owners intervened sooner,” Greenstein says.

12. Keep up with vaccinations

Ask your veterinarian what specific immunizations are must-haves for your pet’s health. “Some vaccines are optional, while others are essential in preventing serious diseases,” Bierbrier says.

Skipping vaccines to save money can be a costly mistake. For instance, the leptospirosis vaccine typically costs less than $50, but it can cost “thousands upon thousands to try to treat leptospirosis once your dog has contracted the disease,” Greenstein notes.

Reach out to animal shelters, nonprofit organizations and veterinary schools near you to see if they offer free or low-cost vaccinations.

13. Shop around for spay or neuter surgery

Have a dog or cat? “Spaying or neutering your pet can save a lot of money by preventing serious health problems, including uterine, ovarian and testicular cancers,” says Bierbrier. Of course, it also prevents surprise litters, which can be another source of unexpected costs, Scott says.

Animal shelters, humane societies, pet nonprofits and some state health departments offer low-cost or free spay and neuter services. SpayUSA maintains an online database of affordable programs.

14. Consider pet insurance

A pet insurance policy can help “buffer you from the financial burden of unexpected expenses, which these days can run into the tens of thousands of dollars,” says Greenstein.

Pet insurance is available for a variety of animals, including dogs, cats, rabbits, ferrets, birds, reptiles, rodents and even pigs. The cost generally depends on your pet’s age, health status and the level of protection you choose, according to the Insurance Information Institute. To get the best value, look into pet insurance while your pet is a puppy, kitten or piglet. Premiums are generally lower for younger, healthier animals, and some insurers have age limits on new policies.

If you’re employed, check with your HR or benefits department, as some companies offer pet insurance at discounted group rates.

a bird participating in a telehealth appointment with a veterinarian

Virtual appointments and phone consultations can save you time and money, since they often cost less.

Jared Oriel

15. Don’t overlook telehealth appointments

Only 34 percent of pet owners ages 60 or older consider nontraditional forms of care, such as telephone or video appointments, according to a PetSmart Charities and Gallup survey. Yet virtual appointments and phone consultations can save you time and money, since they often cost less.

If you don’t need emergency care, look to the multiple virtual platforms to see what would work best. For general questions, Vetster, AskVet, AirVet, PetCoach and Chewy connect pet owners with licensed veterinarians for online consultations, though fees vary. You can also ask your vet if they use Vet Hero, which gives pet owners virtual access to their existing vet practice.

Another reason to consider an online vet: Some provide 24/7 service.

16. Read the fine print when researching insurance plans

Before purchasing a policy, find out what’s included and what’s not to determine the right fit, says Hohenhaus. Some plans focus on preventive care, such as annual wellness visits and medications for fleas, ticks and heartworms. Other policies cover only catastrophic medical treatment, like emergency surgery or hospitalization, or may only cover fees for exams, diagnostics and treatment for certain accidents and injuries.

If you have a purebred dog or cat, there could be exclusions and exceptions depending on the breed. Also, many pet insurers won’t cover pre-existing conditions.

In cases where insurance isn’t a good fit, that emergency fund will come in handy. “When your pet needs urgent care, the last thing you want to be thinking about is how you’re going to afford it,” says Scott.

17. Explore pet care assistance programs for older adults

Nearly 70 percent of adults ages 60 or older have declined care or not sought care for their pet because they couldn’t afford it or didn’t believe the care was worth the cost, according to the PetSmart Charities and Gallup survey.

But there are ways to offset health care costs. “If you’re a senior, veteran or disabled, you may be eligible for programs through local agencies,” says Scott. “Always ask your local senior center or community outreach office if they have resources for pet care assistance.”

A good place to start is your local Humane Society. Also contact animal shelters, rescue groups and veterinary clinics in your area. “Many of these organizations either offer assistance directly or can connect you with programs in your area,” says Scott.

18. Develop a workout routine

Just like us humans, the healthier you keep your pet, the lower their medical costs will likely be.

Check with your veterinarian to see what kind of physical activities they recommend for your specific animal and breed, then create a fitness routine tailored to your pet’s needs. “Walking your dog also benefits your health as well and costs nothing,” adds Hohenhaus.

19. Make your own pet toys

Forget about pricey chew toys, puzzles and squeaky stuffed animals. “Get creative,” says Scott. “Many household items can make excellent DIY toys.”

Old socks, knotted T-shirts, cardboard boxes and empty toilet paper rolls can be used as playthings for cats and dogs. Just make sure any homemade toy is safe, with no choking hazards or loose parts. “A simple YouTube or Pinterest search will result in countless tutorials,” says Bodge, the consumer savings blogger.

a person pushing a luggage cart with a dog in a crate and a cat in a backpack

Look for lodging that doesn’t charge guests extra fees for pets.

Jared Oriel

20. Vacationing with Fido? Stay at affordable accommodations

A little research can help you curb costs when traveling with pets. Many hotels, motels and peer-to-peer vacation rentals welcome pets. Yet their policies and fees can vary.

Look for lodging that doesn’t charge guests extra fees for pets. Some hotel chains and home rental owners will even welcome your companion with treats, such as Red Roof Inns, Kimptons and Element Hotels by Westin. Sites such as BringFido, Petswelcome and Pet Friendly Travel offer information on pet-friendly hotels and rental properties. Always call ahead to verify so you aren’t hit with a surprise fee.

21. Shop at discount retailers

Pet stores aren’t the only places to buy products for your pooch. “From pet beds to bowls to toys, you can pick up name-brand pet goods for up to 60 percent less at discount stores like T.J.Maxx, HomeGoods and Ross,” says Andrea Woroch, a money savings writer, former consultant for Rover and mom of two dogs. For extra savings, shop the clearance section.

22. Check online communities for deals and freebies

Scroll through Facebook Marketplace to find new and gently used items that others are selling at a discount. While you’re there, explore your local Facebook “Buy Nothing” group, in which fellow pet owners in your community may be giving away items they no longer need, such as pet beds, crates, carriers and toys.

There’s also Nextdoor, a website you can use to connect with other pet owners in your community, including neighbors who are looking to unload new or gently used pet products.

23. Set up pet-sitting and dog-walking swaps

Bierbrier encourages pet owners to team up to save money. “Exchanging pet care with neighbors is a great way to make walking and boarding more affordable,” she says.

If you can’t find someone who will watch your pet for free while you’re away, look for sitters or boarding facilities that offer package rates and senior discounts. “Booking early can help you lock in lower rates, especially around major holidays,” says Scott. And look beyond well-known boarding services — local or independent pet sitters often have strong community ties and reasonable prices, he adds.

24. Consider investing in professional training

A well-trained pet is less likely to develop destructive behaviors that can lead to costly home repairs. For budget-friendly professional training, look into group training or virtual sessions.

Petco offers group training for under $25, as well as individual 101-level training for new customers for $39. PetSmart offers four sessions of virtual training for $126, which comes out to $31.50 each. In addition, there are countless YouTube videos where professional pet trainers offer tips.

25. Pet-proof your home

Creating a safe home environment for your pet can help prevent accidents and costly health care bills. “We care for pets that have fallen out of windows without screens, pets sick from ingesting chocolate, marijuana and string,” Hohenhaus says. Exposure to household dangers, such as unsafe food and hazardous environments, is a leading cause of emergency pet care visits, she adds.

Keep medications out of reach, stow away potential choking hazards like rubber bands, and learn which foods can harm your pet. For dogs, chocolate, especially dark chocolate, is toxic. Xylitol, a sugar substitute found in some candies, gums and baked goods, can be deadly. For cats, flowers like lilies, daffodils and tulips can be harmful.

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Laura Petrecca is a contributing writer for AARP. She has written for USA Today, Real Simple, Digiday’s WorkLife, Kiplinger, AARP, Men’s Health, Worth, Crain’s New York Business and Advertising Age.