Last updated on February 28th, 2025 at 04:54 am
Losing a job is tough. I know because I’ve been there. In June 2023, the company I worked for shut down suddenly, leaving me without a paycheck or a plan. The stress of figuring out what to do next was overwhelming. Bills, rent, food—everything felt like it was piling up at once.
If you’re going through something similar, I want you to know that you’re not alone. It’s okay to feel scared or uncertain. Right now, the most important thing is making sure you have the basics covered—keeping a roof over your head, maintaining transportation, paying utilities, and having enough food. Once you have those handled, you can start looking at ways to tighten your budget while still taking care of your pet.
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Adjusting Pet Care Without Sacrificing Their Well-Being
Your pet is part of your family, and even though money may be tight, there are ways to keep them healthy without overspending.
1. Look for Affordable Pet Food Options
If your usual pet food brand is too expensive, consider switching to a more budget-friendly option. Many store-brand pet foods have similar ingredients to premium brands. You can also check for coupons, sign up for loyalty programs, or buy in bulk to save money. Below are some popular rewards programs:
Purina Rewards – When you join, after making certain purchases you can upload your receipt and receive points towards food, accessories, and treats.
Blue Buffalo Good Rewards – Upload your receipt and receive points towards gift cards.
PetSmart Treats Rewards – As a member, you can turn purchases into points, which add up to rewards towards pet food and toys.
Zoetis PetCare Rewards – This pharmaceutical company makes several medications for pets, including Apoquel, Simparica Trio and Solensia. Earn points with purchases and cash them in to use on vet services (many of my clients do this!)
Chewy, based in Florida, offers a vast selection of pet foods with competitive pricing. New customers can benefit from promotions such as a $20 eGift card on their first purchase over $49 using the promo code WELCOME. They also provide free shipping on orders over $35.
2. Rethink Vet Care Costs
Routine vet visits are important, but if you’re struggling, you might be able to space them out a little more. If your pet needs medication, ask your vet about generic options or online pharmacies that may have lower prices. Look for low-cost vet clinics and nonprofit organizations that offer grants for veterinary care. I have listed some nonprofit groups below:
The Pet Fund – A 501(c)(3) nonprofit that helps owners of domestic animals pay for veterinary care
Mosby Foundation: Helps pay for medical expenses for abused, sick, and neglected dogs
Brown Dog Foundation: A 501(c)(3) charity that helps families pay for treatment for life-threatening illnesses or injuries
Frankie’s Friends: Helps families pay for lifesaving emergency or specialty veterinary care
Paws 4 A Cure: An all-volunteer nonprofit that provides financial assistance to those who cannot afford veterinary care
Red Rover Relief: Helps pay for veterinarian bills and helps others find ways to raise funds themselves
Bow Wow Buddies Foundation: Helps sick and injured dogs by funding urgent medical care and aiding with veterinary bills
3. Groom at Home
If you normally take your dog to a groomer, try doing it yourself. A good brush, some pet-safe shampoo, and a pair of nail clippers can go a long way. There are plenty of online tutorials to help you learn how to trim nails, clean ears, and even give haircuts if needed.
@i.reignstormpitDog Bath Routine 🐾 Deshedding & Moisturizing With Organic Coconut Oil & Shea Butter #foryou #foryoupage #dogsoftiktok #dogbath #bath #doggrooming #pitbull #satisfying #relaxing #asmr #asmrsou♬ original sound – Reign Storm Samuel
TikTok user i.reighstormpit gets a spa day at home.
4. Get Creative with Toys and Treats
Pets don’t care if their toy came from a fancy pet store or if you made it yourself. Old t-shirts can be turned into tug toys, and empty cardboard boxes make great cat hideouts.
Homemade treats using ingredients you already have can be just as exciting as store-bought ones.
5. Find Free or Low-Cost Pet Activities
Walks, hikes, or trips to the park are free ways to keep your dog active and happy. If you have a cat, create DIY enrichment with paper bags, cardboard boxes, or homemade puzzle feeders to keep them entertained without spending money.
6. Consider Temporary Help
If things are really tough, reach out to local pet assistance programs. Some animal shelters, rescue groups, and even veterinary clinics offer temporary pet food or medical assistance for pet owners going through financial hardship. If you need help, don’t be afraid to ask—these programs exist for a reason.
Some local pet shelters and food banks even offer free or discounted pet food for those in need. These are a few in my area (Florida) but you will need to do an online search for pet food pantries local to you.
7. Keep Their Routine as Normal as Possible
Pets can sense stress, and changes in routine can make them anxious. Even if life feels unpredictable right now, try to keep their feeding schedule, walk times, and playtime consistent.
This will help them feel safe and secure, which can also bring you some comfort.
You’ll Get Through This—And Your Pet Will Too
Losing a job is stressful, but your pet doesn’t love you for your paycheck. They love you for you. As long as their basic needs are met, they’ll be happy just having you around.
This time in your life is temporary, and things will get better. Take care of yourself, make adjustments where you can, and lean on your pet for comfort—because no matter what happens, they’ll always be there for you.
Looking for even MORE ways to save?
Check out my post 9 Ways to Save Money on Rising Vet Bills for budget-savvy tips on how to manage those rising costs.
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