High Price of Pets, Cut Costs on Care | ABC30 Fresno

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By ABC30

Friday, November 6, 2009

Fresno, CA Joy Copulos has five dogs, so she knows how expensive pets can be. She said, "We don't go out to dinner as much as we used to." And though her dogs still eat like kings, she's found ways to keep costs down.

"Buying in bulk, looking for coupons, looking for sales, you know, we can save money and still feed our dog's quality food."

Walker says looking online helps, too. But prices for dog food vary anywhere from a $1.50 per pound to more than $2.00 per pound. And when it comes to medicine for your pet, you can save there, too.

Consumer Reports Mandy Walker said, "Always ask your vet if there's a lower-priced generic available. And ask if the drug's available at your pharmacy, where you might be able to get it for less."

And Consumer Reports says skip health insurance.

"We found pet insurance may cost you more than you'll save because, like people insurance, there are co-pays, deductibles, and premiums, and limits on your coverage said Walker.

To save on pet supplies check out sites like eBay, craigslist, freecycle. And Joy's found one more way to save - a neighbor looks after all her dogs when she's away so she can save on kennel charges.