No doubt there are enormous benefits to owning a pet, but the care needed to keep your pet healthy can also come with a hefty price tag and leave an indelible mark on your wallet. According to the ASPCA, owning a dog or cat can cost up to $1,000 in the first year, and for many people, much more. Fear not, however. The good news is that you can cut your pet care expenses without compromising your pet’s health and wellness. The following tips will help you save money on pet care for your dog or cat:

    1. Don’t skip the vet.

If you’re trying to save money, it might be tempting to decrease vet visits. But, according to Julie Ciarmella of the American Veterinary Medicine Association, “an investment in preventative healthcare can reduce your long-term pet healthcare costs.” Why? Like humans, regular check-ups can prevent expensive complications down the road.

    2. Get by with a little help from your friends.

Dog-walking, pet-sitting, and kennel services can be one of the most expensive parts of owning a pet. Save some green by taking the “you scratch my dog’s belly and I’ll scratch your cat’s back” approach, and tap into a network of other pet owners in your area. Neighborhood dog parks are a great place to meet likeminded pet lovers; or you could try good old-fashioned advertising.

    3. Choose high-value pet products that give you more bang for your buck.

Grabbing the cheapest product can feel like a thrifty move, but you may be surprised by the impact “cheap” products can have on your budget. For example, cheaper clay cat litter tends to have to be changed more often, so cat owners go through bag after bag at a much faster rate. World’s Best Cat Litter is an alternative that harnesses the concentrated power of corn for long-lasting performance. You’ll use a little less litter, replace it less often and save money for your efforts.

At the end of the day, what your pet needs most is love. Keep things simple and invest in high-value products where it matters, and you’ll be on your way to a pet care budget that works for you and your pet.