Basic pet care like grooming, vaccinations and flea and worm treatments are all non-negotiable costs associated with pet ownership. Accidents or illness, however, can both come with a hefty bill attached.

To avoid the stress of having to fund unexpected expenses, try taking the following preventative measures.

Regular Check-Ups

Regular vet visits and wellness checks can help prevent many health issues or the onset of more severe diseases. Ensuring that all vaccinations, worm and flea treatments are up to date is a simple way of supporting your pet's general health. We also recommend that you spay or neuter your pet to avoid unexpected arrivals or health complications.

The frequency of wellness checks will depend on the age and breed of your pet. Check with your vet how regularly you should bring them in.

Quality Food

Research the best diet for your pet and make sure that you stick to it. Each pet will have its own needs and preferences. Just because you think it is the best brand for them does not mean they will enjoy it. Also, be mindful of any allergies or intolerances and feed them accordingly.

Brush and Brush Again

While brushing their fur is important (if they have it), brushing their teeth is even more critical. Dental bills can be extremely costly, but regular brushing will help prevent any issues. If your pet develops any dental problems, it can affect more than their breath. It may also affect their ability to eat properly. So look after those teeth!

Be Aware

You know your pet better than anyone else; if they start to act out of character, get them to the vet sooner rather than later.

Stool Checks

It’s not the most pleasant of tasks, but checking your pet’s stools for signs of parasites can save you hundreds of dollars on costly procedures. It can also be a good idea to invest in anti-parasitic medication if your pet is at risk of infection.

Insurance

You might also want to consider taking out pet insurance. Pet insurance ensures that pets and their families can access urgent care should they need it. Paying a monthly premium will prevent you from having to come up with hundreds or even thousands of dollars if your pet needs emergency care. You can view some options here.

Preventative care is the best way to ensure that your pet remains in optimum health and you don’t get hit with vet bills that you can’t cover.