We’re all for forking over a few bucks for our adorable Boxers, but we also fully recognize that sometimes budgets take precedence. Keeping this in mind we’ve chosen a handful of tried and true ideas that will keep your bank account filled and your Boxer sidekick doing the kidney bean dance and a few zoomies too!
1. DOG TOYS & BEDS DON’T NEED TO BE FANCY.
Let us say it again for the people in the back: it DOESN’T need to be fancy! It’s tempting to go all out on that super plush dog bed, the latest toy or treat puzzle, but the truth is, your dog just wants to be comfy, have fun and spend time with you. If you have a Costco membership, snap up a fuzzy dog bed there or hit up Marshall’s. If your dog likes chasing after balls, try giving him (or her) a used tennis ball or buy a Pinky ball from the hardware store. Even better, put a ball in an old sock. Repurpose an old t-shirt or fleece jacket by making a DIY braided toy. And a Boxer favorite - rip apart any Amazon box!! LOL
2. SIGN UP FOR AUTO-SHIP OR FREQUENT BUYER PROGRAMS.
Once you’ve found your dog’s favorite food, you can sign up for auto-ship with Chewy, or Honest Kitchen for food blends and toppers, which saves you up to 10% on recurring orders. You can also save money at boutique pet stores by signing up for their frequent buer programs, which are typically buy 12 bags get one free. If you feed your dog a raw diet, source your meat through bulk buying programs such as WAzzuOR.com in the PNW, or reach out to your local butcher. Cost up front may be a tad more, but your dogs immune system will be a lot healthier - which leads to fewer allergies, hot spots, upset tummies and you’ll have fewer vet visits.
3. CREATE A PET SITTING TIME SHARE.
Doggy day care, daily walks, and dog sitting can get expensive, especially if you have more than one dog. Consider pooling resources and sharing these duties with other pet owners, a friend or family member. Agree to a schedule and take turns providing dog walks or playdates. Also consider vacation sitting as well. In a pickle? Reach out to your dog’s former foster or the rescue adopters page for sitter ideas.
4. MAKE YOUR OWN TREATS.
Healthy dog treats can get expensive, especially if you tend to use them a lot for training or rewards. A bag of dehydrated treats, for instance, doesn't tend to last long, especially when the average dog goes crazy for them! Try using a food dehydrator or oven to make dried sweet potato, turkey or chicken jerky. Whip up a batch of dog cookies (check out our recipes on Pinterest) or just opt for healthy treats such as raspberries, a small piece of cantaloupe, or apple slices.
5. SPEND TIME, NOT MONEY.
One of the best ways to save money and to provide a healthy and happy life for your pup is through your time. Instead of expensive toys, take a walk or hike together. Playing games in your yard and cuddling with your furry BFF can go a long way in cutting costs on unnecessary expenses meant to entertain your pet, when all you have to do is pay attention.
THE BIG PICTURE
There are so many ways to save money and remember, you need not do them all at once but if you pay attention, so many of these can work together to turbocharge your monthly savings. Are you with us? What idea(s) are you excited to try? Have one to share - drop it below.
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