Pampering your pet can be pricey. Here’s how to keep costs down
If you’re on social media, you likely noticed the barrage of dog pics shared on National Dog Day. You may have even shared a snap of your own furry friend.
This got me thinking it’s a great time to talk about managing pet expenses, especially for those who have experienced a change in income due to COVID-19. Here are some ideas to help you make the most of your time with your best furry friend:
Free dog parks
Although the rising trend of dog bars and paid memberships is certainly appealing, there are a number of free off-leash dog parks in KC.
Shawnee Mission Park, the Wayside Waifs Bark Park, Swope Park, and several other locations across town offer a fun way for your dog to get some exercise and social time in without breaking your budget. Just be sure to check for any changes to standard access due to COVID-19 before visiting. In fact, one of the reasons we purchased our home is the that we are within walking distance of Stoll Park’s off-leash park.
Grooming at home
Having a groomer you love, especially if you have a pup with fur that requires shaping, is a wonderful luxury. However, it can also eat into your budget if you’re going frequently.
You don’t need fancy supplies to groom at home, just a hose and shampoo, a trimmer or fur reducer, and a fur drain trap for your bath in the colder months. Although this does require some time and clean-up, it will save you loads in the end.
Of course, we love supporting small businesses in KC, too, so if you’re needing to cut funds, consider reducing your visits or taking advantage of packages.
Dog toys
Bark Box and other fun subscription services give your pup (and you) something fun to look forward to each month. But as an alternative, I just discovered some dollar stores sell dog toys. If you want to surprise your dog with a few new toys each month, consider safety swinging by a store for a few new ones.
For dog lovers, National Dog Day is every day. But that doesn’t mean enjoying your furry friend has to break the bank. I hope these tips help you enjoy the best of both worlds.
Kat’s Money Corner is posted on Dollars & Sense every Tuesday. Kat Hnatyshyn, when not blogging or caring for her little ones, is a manager with CommunityAmerica Credit Union. For more financial chatter, visit http://communityamerica.com.