With concern for their furry friends and their bank accounts, frugal pet owners continue to search for ways to save money without sacrificing the care their pets deserve. Although it is imperative to continue with an ounce of prevention (taking your pets to their annual veterinary visits, brushing their teeth to prevent expensive cleanings, and giving them their heartworm, flea and tick medication), there are ways to cut back while not compromising on the love, care and affection. There is more that you can do than just buying discounted medications from an online retailer. In some cases, creativity comes into play. These money-saving pet tips can help you keep more money in your pocket and your pet happy and healthy.

Cutting Back Can Keep Your Pets Healthy and Slim
According to the Association for Pet Obesity Prevention’s(APOP) second annual National Pet Obesity Day Study, conducted in October 2008, 44% of dogs and 57% of cats in the United States are either overweight or obese. As a result, pets are in real danger of developing serious and costly diseases, such as diabetes, arthritis and other largely avoidable conditions. To help shed some pet pounds and make that bag of dog food last longer, cut down on the amount of food you put in your pet’s bowl. First, record his pre-diet weight. Over a two-week period, reduce the amount you normally feed him by one-fourth. Also, break medium-sized or larger biscuits into two so that your pet has lower calorie treats for today and tomorrow. After two weeks, weight your pet. If he has lost even a little weight, you’re on the right track.

Save Energy, Save Money
Put away the pet drinking fountains and you’ll save energy. Using a filtered pitcher for clean water and keep it cool in the refrigerator. A stainless steel bowl, available at any discount kitchen supply store on the Bowery, can keep water colder, longer. Additionally, stainless steel bowls do not have to be replaced as frequently as plastic or break as easily as ceramic and can easily be cleaned.

Home Grooming Saves Big Bucks
In today’s economy many Americans have reduced the number of trips to hair and nail salons, and your pet can too. Learning to groom your dog at home will save money spent on professional groomers, especially if your dog just needs a bath. Home grooming not only gives you a chance to bond with you pet, but also to detect lumps, bumps and odors that may be a sign of a health problem. Grooming supplies, including a handheld shower, pet shampoo and conditioner, doggie brushes and combs, pet toothbrush, canine tooth paste, a nail clipper and instructional material can all be purchased at www.petagree.net for a fraction of your yearly grooming fees. To learn more about grooming your pet and the supplies you’ll need, order the dog groomer’s "Bible, The All Breed Dog Grooming Guide," written by Sam Kohl, former owner of the New York School of Dog Grooming. The book can be purchased on Amazon.

Being Simple Is Fashion Forward
Is it necessary to have the expensive leather or designer name leash? Or will a more economical, purple nylon leash suffice? According the 2009/2010 American Pet Products Association National Pet Owners Survey, more Americans purchase nylon leashes and collars. Economical fashion decisions are the latest trend. Stay in style with a less expensive leash in a fashion color. Cutting back on extravagances saves money immediately.

Spend Wisely or Not At All
Although your pet may love the local doggie daycare facility that costs $35+ a day, it may not fit into your budget anymore. Visiting the local dog park allows you to spend time with your dog and play with doggie friends for FREE! Also, hiring a dog walker for $18 a day can replace doggie daycare while you are at work. Contact the National Association of Professional Pet Sitters or Pet Sitters International for more information about finding a pet sitter nearest you.

Recycle with Puppies and Older Dogs for a Greener Tomorrow
Instead of purchasing costly wee-wee pads or an expensive portable potty area for your puppy or dog, you can make a portable, indoor potty area of for you dog. Place newspaper on a large sheet pan (around 18” X 26” X 1”), which you can purchase inexpensively at a discount kitchen supply store like Big Tray. These trays are inexpensive at a cost of $9.99 and easy to clean and the paper is free and easy to dispose of. Moreover, old dogs with arthritis appreciate not having to step up to relieve themselves.

Spend Less by Including your Dog
With Christmas just around the corner, seasonal vacation plans have already begun. Bringing your pet with you on vacation saves you money on boarding services and in-house pet sitters. Check out pet-friendly hotels and rentals. Beware though, because pets are welcome destinations fill up quick, so do your research and book your pet-included vacation as soon as possible. For more information on dog-friendly travel, get Traveling with Your Pet, 11th Edition: The AAA Petbook by AAA Publishing. AAA members purchase for the book for the discounted price of $12.98; non-members purchase the book for $21.98 from the organization.