When you add a new pet the family, you do so knowing that your puppy comes with quite a few bills the first year. In addition to buying food and cleaning supplies for those accidents, you also have to worry about all of the vet costs. Because your puppy needs vaccinations and booster shots the first year, as well as being spayed or neutered, those bills can quickly rack up. If you want to have the joy of a new puppy without breaking the bank, here are some tips to save money on your puppy’s vet bills.

Saving Money on your Puppy’s Vet Costs

While I strongly suggest adopting a dog or rescuing one from a shelter, you still face many of the same concerns as a puppy because you don't know what kind of training, if any, as a shelter pet. We rescued our dog Cash when he was 2, and we had a rocky first month, few accidents, 2 vet trips and lots of learning but now I realize how truly lucky we got with him.

Use Over-the-Counter Vaccinations

If you’re worried about the cost of vaccinations, then you should try administering over-the-counter vaccinations yourself. These treatments can be found locally and cost a fraction of the price of a trip to the vet. You will still need to visit the vet for your puppy’s rabies vaccination, but you can do quite a few boosters on your own. If you do go this route, be sure to keep receipts to show your vet that your puppy is still being cared for.

No Office Fee

Some vet clinics offer a special deal to new pet owners. If possible, find a vet that waives the office fee if you bring your puppy to a regular appointment on time. This could save you about $50 or more per visit, which adds up and puts money in your savings account.

Local Spay & Neuter Clinic

When it comes time to spay or neuter your new puppy, you might want to check into your local spay and neuter clinic. These clinics are designed to help control the animal population, especially for strays. Because of their mission, they will offer to fix your pet for much less than a vet would. One benefit of rescuing an animal from a shelter is they generally take care of this before the pet is ready for adoption. 

Skip the Flea Medicine

When you’re at the vet for a regular visit, don’t be afraid to say no to their flea medicine. You can usually find the same medication online or at your local supermarket. By saying no to the flea medicine and other extras, you’re sure to save money.

Keep Your Pet Healthy

Just like humans, keeping your pet healthy with regular exercise and keeping a control on their weight will mean fewer visits to the vet. It will also mean fewer problems over the long run that will rack up your vet bills.

Get Pet Insurance

If you pet has some problems, it might be time to look into some pet insurance. My parents had a dog that had severe separation anxiety and a seizure disorder.  Another dog had to be put under just to have his nails clipped. Pet insurance is an option to help both situations.

Having a new puppy doesn’t have to cost you a lot. How do you save on your vet bills?