Did you know that globally, the pet care market has grown to $261 billion in 2022, which was $245 billion in 2021? This means an estimated 6.1% compounded annual growth rate (CAGR). So if the growth of the industry continues at the same rate, then the market will grow up to $350 billion by 2027. Confused how the market has grown so much? Well, it is all attached to human sentiments. You will be surprised to know those pet companies sell products costlier than baby product manufacturers. How is that possible? Well, sentimental pet owners want to offer their dogs the best, which is how this market can grow exponentially every year.
We also cannot ignore the fact that cat and dog adoption has increased since 2020 due to the pandemic. Distressed people wanted to seek emotional support when stuck at home, hence adopted pets. Thus, it helped the market grow.
Another factor we cannot forget is human laziness. Well, technology has made us so lethargic that we want simple solutions to everything. So instead of playing a simple fetch with your dog, you will get an interactive ball which would cost you 10 times more. But you are ok to pay that price just because you feel it will keep your dog entertained.
Your dog does not understand the difference between cheap or expensive toys and will try to bite and break each one of them. Not all expensive toys last long; hence only expensive items are not great.
Hence, the cost of keeping a dog has increased so much nowadays that it has become challenging. Here are a few tips that will help you care for your dog without breaking the bank.
- Get Insurance:
Humans are optimistic, but we cannot ignore the reality that your pet can get injured. If they need some expensive medical attention, then you may not be able to afford it. Hence do seek pet insurance that covers accident fees too. Learn more about pet insurance for Goldendoodle.
- Decide the Food Wisely:
The pet food industry is really vast, with hundreds of pet food out there. Every product speaks highly of its food quality, but it can get really confusing that whom to believe. We are under the assumption that boutique company food is best for dogs, though they cost 4 times more than the normal ones. You have to figure out the brands that your vet approves of and pick one that falls within your budget. You can always add supplements to their food to make it whole. Homemade food is another economical option if you can balance the nutrition well. Raw food is also quite popular nowadays, but honestly, it depends on what your dog can digest. You should consult a vet at the end of the day. Having said that, a healthy diet is a must for the dog for it to be fit. If your dog is not fed right, it will develop low immunity and catch infections easily. Treating them would be a much costlier affair for you.
- Refrain from Expensive Toys:
One thing I have learned from my mistakes is that you should always get economical toys for dogs. The expensive ones also do not last if your dog is an aggressive chewer. This only means a few cheap toys are better as you will not be burdened if you need to replace them.
- Do Some DIYs:
You do not need to buy everything from the dog store. You can always make a few things at home. Like dog beds are costly because they are made for dogs. You do not need to buy one but make it yourself with the help of getting a small-sized foam. Similarly, you can make an elevated food stand, sniffing mats, and cooling mats in the home itself. Just get a little creative to save extra bucks.
- Keep Your Dog Active:
You need to keep the dog fit and agile by making them exercise every day. This makes their bones and muscles strong. If a dog does not get enough exercise, it may get aggressive and destructive side home. This can create a huge mess, but also, they can harm themselves in the process. To stop this behavior, give them enough walks every day.
- Care for Your Dog’s Teeth:
Dogs’ dental health is important exactly as it is important for humans. Dogs need to be brushed regularly to avoid plaque deposits. There are also dental treats available at an economical cost. Failing to maintain dental hygiene in digs can cause tooth decay which may lead to the untimely loss of teeth and other medical expenditures.
- Avoid Fancy Buying:
The pet industry also entices owners to indulge in buying pet fashion, which is honestly a waste of money. Dogs are not supposed to wear dresses unless they have to withstand extreme climatic conditions. Things like bows, bandanas, and t-shirts are all fancy things that look super cute and hence are super expensive. Most of the time, your dog may not even be comfortable wearing these as they are animals who are not meant to be dressed. Avoid buying these unnecessary merchandises, which will help you save money.
- Prevent Diseases Rather than Cure Them:
Prevention is always better than cure. For your dog as well as your pocket. When you take proper care of the dog them your dog will be healthy and you do not have to worry about the vet’s bill. A healthy and happy dog is unlikely to get sick often. Of course, it is unavoidable sometimes but mostly if your dog is healthy then you will actually save a lot. Take your dog for regular check-ups, get a blood work done every six months and let your dog receive vaccines timely to improve immunity.
The Bottom Line:
The dog only needs love from you. It does not understand if you are spending your entire earnings on them or just a part of it. Many times, it’s not your dog, but you who is overspending on the dog just because of your emotions towards the animal. If so, show it in a way he understands rather than swiping your credit card.