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According to a survey of over 1,000 U.S. pet owners, Americans spend an average of $126.19 every month on their furry family members, with dog owners spending more than those who adopt cats. When you invest that much money in your pooch, it can really eat into your budget. To cut down on expenses, use the following tips that help your family save money while keeping the home clean and comfortable despite the hair, dander, and dirt your pup drags in. Use the money you save to buy Fido that extra bone or new fancy collar you’ve had your eye on!
Stock Up on Budget-Friendly Cleaning Supplies
Not everything is worth buying in bulk. Unless you’re running a concession stand at a little league park, it’s very unlikely you will ever need a gallon of ketchup. However, cleaning supplies are always worth stocking up on — especially if you have a dog. Families spend on average $500 a year on cleaning supplies. Online retailers like Amazon often have special deals on certain products that can save you 30, 40, and even up to 50 percent off the market price you pay at grocery stores. And with a quick search online, you can usually track down more ways to save through coupon codes and cashback offers. When you find a good deal, buy multiples so you can rest easy knowing you have what you need to tackle any mess your precious pup throws your way.
Prevent Pet Stains
The best way to prevent pet stains is by properly potty training your dog and making sure he has plenty of opportunities to go outside — whether that be through regular walks or installing a doggie door that gives him access to a fenced-in yard. However, even the best-trained dogs can get sick and have an accident indoors. You can help protect your carpet and furniture by making it pet-resistant with a fabric protector like Scotchgard. These products create an invisible barrier over upholstery that prevents moisture and stains from setting into fibers. You can find protectors for all types of surfaces, including carpet and leather. Look for these products at big box stores like Target and take advantage of deals and sales to bring down the cost.
The Ultimate Fur Remover
A great vacuum that sucks up dirt and dander is essential for dog owners, but even the priciest models have trouble pulling up hair from surfaces. Surprisingly, the ultimate fur-removal tool can be found in the auto department of your local Walmart (again, check first for ways to save: coupons, promo codes and discounts). A window squeegee has the perfect amount of friction to attract stubborn dog hair stuck in carpet and upholstery. Just rub it across the surface to create friction and be amazed as the hair begins to ball up into a large mass you can suck up with your hand vac — and then pat yourself on the back for a job well done.
If you want to spend more money spoiling your dog and less cleaning up after him, it helps to find sales and coupons for the best products. Bulk buying isn’t always smart, but since cleaning products don’t expire quickly, it’s worth it to stock up. You can also prevent stains with fabric protectors that stop waste from absorbing into upholstery or carpets. A window squeegee is an inexpensive tool that can help remove fur from deep down in fibers. And while a paw-cleaning rug is a bit of an initial investment, it will save you money and time in the long run, as it keeps your floors and furniture clean when Fido comes inside from a muddy day of play.