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Savings for Your Furry Friends, Pet Discounts
Date: March 15, 2006
Author: David Smidt, SeniorDiscounts.com

In our last article we looked at different organizations that work with older adults to adopt a pet. While many of the initial costs are covered through these programs, owners are responsible for feeding and caring for their pets once they have brought them home. This week we will look at ways pet owners can save money on pet supplies and veterinarian care as well as pet registration.

To read last week's article about pet adoption, click here.

Over the years, SeniorDiscounts has discovered that there are many discounts available to senior pet owners. You just have to know where to look.

The most common pet discounts can be found at local veterinarian hospitals. Many local vets will provide a standard 10% discount to seniors on regular checkups and even surgeries. Some veterinarians may extend those discounts to common medications as well, but typically discounts will not be available on products, such as food, sold at the hospitals. Age requirements for these discounts will most commonly begin at around the age of 60. Don't expect the vet hospitals to advertise their senior discounts in the yellow pages. Some may place a notice in the hospital lobby, but most often you will have to ask about the senior discount.

SeniorDiscounts has contacted the national pet supply stores about their senior discount policies, and we have yet to locate a senior discount at these major chains. We have found some local pet supply stores that do offer some senior discounts. Although local pet stores may be a little more expensive than national chains, you may be able to achieve a lower price when you subtract the senior discount. The discounts are usually 10%, while the age requirements vary by store.

Many cities require that pet owners register their pets and pay a one time or annual fee. We have found that some cities will offer a discount on the registration fees to qualifying seniors. Age requirements for these types of discounts usually begin at age 62 or 65, and the city may also require that one meet certain income requirements. Check your local city's web site for details.

SeniorDiscounts has some veterinarian hospitals and local pet stores listed on the web site, but they are always looking for more. If you know of a pet discount and would like to tell others, click here.

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