Do you feel the privilege and honour of caring for a senior dog, but sometimes also the financial pressures?
I feel it too. I would sacrifice anything financially that I can but at the same time we do live in a world where it takes money to care for your human needs too!
The extra vet visits, the medications, the special food, the rehab, they all add up quickly!
That's why I don't want you to be spending money on things that aren't actually helping your dog feel better, otherwise you're wasting your money that be better spent elsewhere, either on you and your family, or just more treats for your senior baby!
Here are 7 budgeting tips to help you save money and support your dog’s health in the years ahead.
1. Prioritise preventative care and ask for prescriptions if able
This is spending money to save money! Skipping regular check-ups might save money now, but it could lead to bigger vet bills down the track.
Catching issues early like arthritis, dental disease, or weight gain means more treatment options, less pain for your dog, and fewer costly emergencies.
Also, getting your dog's medicine directly from the vet can be more than getting he script and buying it online or at your local pharmacy.
Budget tip - Ask your vet if they offer senior wellness packages or payment plans for regular check-ups and blood tests.
And ask them for a script to get the medicine elsewhere. My vet charged $110 which I was able to get a script ($25) and buy from the pharmacy ($30) for a total of $55.
2. Don’t overspend on supplements
Some can help, but many offer minimal benefit, especially if your dog is already on a good diet.
And, of course, using a supplement to rebuild muscle won't work and is already a waste of your resources.
Budget tip - Choose just one or two well-researched supplements. Then put the rest of your budget toward things that create functional change, like exercise therapy.
3. Focus on exercise, not gadgets
There are endless mobility tools, braces, and devices on the market. Some may help, others may not. But what we know always works is strengthening exercises and stronger muscles.
Stronger muscles improve joint support, reduce pain, and help your dog stay mobile for longer.
Budget tip - A good home-based exercise plan is more affordable and often more effective than relying on equipment. You don’t need anything fancy to start. Just 5 to 10 minutes a day with the right program can make a real difference.
4. Buy second-hand or DIY where possible
Thinking outside the box is sometimes needed to find alternatives that aren't going to cost you an arm and a leg!
Ramp for the car? Check local classifieds or dog groups online.
Raised food bowls? Try a sturdy box or bricks under their regular bowls.
Exercise equipment? Mops and brooms make great Cavaletti poles to start with.
Budget tip - Many exercises can be done without any equipment. But if you’d like to invest, consider putting a small amount aside each month to purchase one item at a time.
A balance cushion is a great first purchase and I'll be doing a video on all the ways you can use this to strengthen you dog, all while spending less than $50 for the piece of equipment.
5. Join a trusted support community
Managing your dog’s arthritis or age-related issues can feel overwhelming. A supportive community helps you make smarter, more confident decisions. That means avoiding wasted money on things that don’t work.
Budget tip - The Dog Physio Hub offers expert guidance, Q&As, and daily support for just $9 per month. You’ll get reassurance, professional advice, and the confidence that your money is going toward the right things.
6. Plan ahead for vet costs
Sudden vet bills can derail your budget quickly.
Pet insurance can help, but senior dogs often have higher premiums or limited coverage.
Budget tip - Whether you have insurance or not, start a pet health fund now. Even $10 to $20 a week can add up quickly. Compare this with insurance to see what suits your situation best.
7. Choose what matters most
You don’t need to do everything. Just the right things.
Instead of monthly grooming, could you learn to trim nails at home?
Instead of weekly hydrotherapy or laser, could you buy a home laser device and do structured home exercises with expert support?
Budget tip - Invest in what gives your dog comfort, movement, and quality of life. Cut back on anything that doesn’t make a meaningful difference.
Your dog deserves more good days than bad. And you deserve peace of mind knowing you’re doing everything you can, without breaking the bank.