Sometimes it feels like basic goods and services get more expensive every day. And, let’s face it, owning a pet can get pretty pricey over time. So it’s smart to look for money-saving strategies that don’t compromise your pet’s health, happiness, or safety.

1. Adopt wisely

While there can be a huge range in pet costs, think of it this way: The average yearly cost of owning a dog is $1400 and the average yearly cost for a cat is $1200. So before adopting, take a very honest look at your finances to determine whether or not you can afford to care for a pet for its entire life. If cost is a factor, do research into the specific types or breeds of pets you’re considering. For example, some dog breeds have more health problems or greater grooming needs, which will increase your cost over their lifetime.

2. Preventative care

As they say, an ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure. Taking your pets for regular vet check-ups can help them stay healthy and avoid more serious and costly treatments down the line. In addition to regular checkups, make sure your pet is vaccinated and neutered/spayed.

3. Secondhand supplies

When you’re adopting a new pet, the supplies can add up quickly. Though you might be tempted to go do a shopping spree at PetSmart, you can save a lot of money if you buy some things secondhand. Facebook can be a great resource for this. Consider posting in neighborhood community or “Buy nothing” groups to ask for what you need.

4. DIY

While there are some things you need to pay the pros for, there are parts of pet care that you can learn to do yourself. Grooming, teeth brushing, and nail clipping, for example, are all tasks that you can save on if you learn to do them safely at home. And when it comes to things like cat toys, keep in mind that sometimes simpler is better. Crumple up balls of foil, create a little shelter out of a box, or tie some faux feathers to a stick and your cats won’t mind.

5. Buy in bulk and/or online

Sometimes you can save big when you buy a lot at once. When you find a food or cat litter that you like, consider stocking up on the biggest size. But first, do the math to make sure that the bulk option actually saves you money. And don’t forget to shop around online. Compare prices of food, meds, and other supplies on sites like Amazon, Chewy, Petsmart, Costco and Target to figure out where you get the best deal.

6. Create an emergency fund

Unfortunately, unexpected pet needs do occur. And you’ll be in a much better situation if you’ve set aside a little money every month for emergencies.

7. Make pet-owning friends

Paying pet sitters or dog walkers can be a pretty penny. Instead, consider making friends with other pet owners nearby who are happy to trade off services to help each other out. When you go out of town, they can care for your pet and vice versa. You’ll both save a ton and rest easy knowing your pet is being cared for by friends.