Pets can be a great expense and some people aren’t aware of that going in.

So instead of trying to sell Spot to raise some cash, here are some ways to take good care of your pets while maintaining your savings savvy.

When Getting a Pet

Sometimes people really do have no other option but to put their pets up for adoption. So, whether you’re looking for a labradoodle or a cockatoo, you might be able to make a housebroken or already trained pet your new buddy.

On the other hand, an older pet that was poorly trained will require a significant investment of your time, or that of a trainer, to change their ways and get up to speed. So, if you try to go the cheap route, be prepared. Working with animals that have had a rough time can be extremely rewarding. It’s a nice thing to do. But it’s not without work.

Adopt a Pet

Getting a pet from a shelter can be another frugal way to find your new friend. It likely won’t be free, but they will usually help out with supplies, services, and health costs.

Pet Shops and Online

Sometimes smaller pet shops will have a litter of pups for a good price. Most commonly, pets are sold directly thought newspapers, Craigslist, etc. Try to negotiate price.

Get a Mutt

Unless you’re crazy or obsessed, there’s no need to spend thousands of dollars to purchase a specific breed. Mutts, mixes, and hybrids have a more diverse gene pool and therefore aren’t usually as susceptible to the health problems that many pure breed pets inherit.

Pet Care

First and foremost, the best way to save on pet care is to make sure your pet gets enough exercise and is fed a good diet.

This doesn’t mean buying the cheapest dog food you can find. Let’s not think too long on what they’re likely to be putting in those products. While a quality dog food might cost more, you will be less likely to have a pet with health problems. Like many Americans, our pets are overweight because they eat too much. This often leads to exacerbated health conditions later in their life.

Talk to your vet about what food they recommend and how much to feed. Your cat isn’t supposed be the size of a real-life Garfield. Feeding a high grade food product, while more expensive, almost always means you’re feeding them less in quantity. Feed them a little less, give them high-quality foods, and chances are you’ll spend less money on pet care.

When it comes to exercise, remember, walks are free and they’re good for you, too.

Regular Vet Exams

Preventative care helps to avoid costly complications later. Make sure your pet has regular check-ups to prevent something more serious from sneaking up.

Vaccination Clinics

Vets, large pet stores, and others often offer specials on vaccinations, dental cleanings, spaying and neutering, and exams several times a year. Check with your vet or local pet store.

Pet Insurance

I know, I know. Health insurance for your pet? It sounds crazy, right? But this is exactly what one very experienced emergency care vet I know in San Francisco recommends. Why? Well, health care treatments for pets, especially in an emergency situation, can be extremely expensive. Not unlike what us humans experience. If Fido gets hit by a car or is diagnosed with cancer, that can mean a big bill to take care of your best friend.

I have two dogs and pet insurance for both. It costs around $25 a month for each. It’s been my experience that you’re going to have the same issues of payment with pet insurance that you’ll encounter with any insurance, but in the case of a major event, it will be ruffer on the wallet to go without. Pet insurance can also help cover the cost of check-ups.

Pet Savings

Some people pet insurance is a total waste of money. They argue that you’re better off putting that money into a pet savings account to use for ongoing care or to have a designated fund on hand for a pet emergency.

Who’s right? I don’t know. Seems like a roll of the dice. What do you think?

Have a Heart to Heart

If nothing else, be honest with your vet about your financial situation. You may not want to admit to being broke, but if you explain things, many vets will work to keep your bill a bit lower by not charging for certain services.

Ask for an Estimate

In wanting to provide the best for your pet, sometimes you’ll say yes, yes, yes to vet suggestions without realizing what you’re saying yes to, or without knowing exactly what is and isn’t needed. Get an estimate first to make this clearer and to avoid surprises.

Visit a Vet School

If you can’t afford pet care with your vet, see if there is a veterinary school near you that might offer service from students at a lower rate.

Buy Medicine Online

Your vet may prescribe medication that you can buy cheaper from a place like PetCareRx than you from them. If you purchase a prescription med from an online pharmacy, they will contact your vet for approval.

Some vets may not like this, but who cares? You’re trying to take care of your pet and save money. If you can get the same thing cheaper online, don’t be afraid to tell them you’re going to do so. PetCareRx and other online pet pharmacies often run sales and offer coupons, plus offer free shipping with minimum purchase ($35).

Pet Supplies

Coupons. Of course there are always coupons for pet supplies. Pets are big business and the Petcos and PetSmarts of the world are always fighting for your dollar. Use their online and in-store coupons and deals as much as you can. Check weekly ads and the phone book for coupons.

Pet Food

Find a store with a good rewards program and stick to buying there, and if you can, buy in bulk. Again, use coupons.

Make your own pet food. This is a growing trend and something many vets recommend. Ask your vet for a recipe or do some research online. I know of several vets that actually have a monthly class on this now. If you have the time, you can make a big vat of food once a week and feed your pet healthier diet, for less money than it costs to buy commercial food. Win and win.

Alternative diets. Non-dog food-based diets are becoming more popular for pets. For instance, and this is true, our vet recommended we put our dachshund on a green been and carrot diet. We can easily feed him that diet for $1 a day. This isn’t for every dog, though. Many vets recommend raw meat diets for certain dogs. Pre-made raw meat products aren’t exactly cheap, so check with local butchers or buy these products in volume to save.

Pet Toys and Chews

Again, buy in bulk. Check out Craigslist, where people might be giving away products and toys after losing a pet of their own. Visit yard sales and your local thrift store to find second-hand products.

Skip the Pet Jewelry

Your cat probably doesn’t need a diamond-studded collar, and you’re dog probably doesn’t need a parka with matching booties. They don’t care about fashion, they don’t need a new collar and leash every month, and it’s really okay to let them go outside naked — in just fur and paws.