Your Guide to Pet Care on a Budget 🐾

National Pet Day is right around the corner 🐶 and it's a purr-fect time to shower our fur babies with extra love and attention. But let's keep it real… pets aren't just bundles of joy and endless cuddles, they're also a serious financial commitment. 

In fact, Americans shelled out a whopping $4,800 on average for their pets last year alone, and with costs rising, that number is not looking to shrink in 2024. From vet visits to grooming, the expenses add up. No worries. Cleo's here for all pet parents, helping you manage pet care costs smoothly, even on a tight budget.

‍

The Real Cost of Pet Ownership in America

First off, owning a pet in the U.S. can really test your wallet. Food, grooming, vet fees, and those sneaky costs like worming treatments can build up faster than your cat can knock things off your shelf. And here's a not-so-fun fact… nearly 28% of households with pets face barriers to veterinary care, with finances being the biggest hurdle 💸 Especially for low-income households, the struggle is real in making sure our furry friends get the care they deserve. (If only pets paid rent, right?)

‍

Help Is on the Way: Budget-Friendly Resources for Pet Owners

There's a silver lining. There are plenty of resources and ways to get help without breaking the bank.

‍

🐾 Local resources

Hit up your neighborhood's Humane Societies and Animal Shelters, not just to gush over the cuties, but also for their wallet-friendly services. Vaccinations, spay/neuter procedures, and more, at prices that won't make your wallet whimper. And hey, Pet Food Banks? Absolutely a thing. They're like foodie heavens for your pet, ensuring no bowl goes unfilled, without you having to sweat the grocery bill.

‍

🎓Veterinary schools

Who knew the halls of learning could be a goldmine for affordable pet care? Veterinary schools are where future pet-saving heroes hone their skills, and you get to benefit from their top-notch, yet budget-friendly, services. From check-ups to treatments, they’ve got your back (and your pet’s tail) without the hefty price tag.

‍

How Cleo Can Be Your Pet Care Sidekick

Now, let's talk about how Cleo, can help you manage those pet-related expenses:

‍

⭐️ Budget with categories

Easily set up a category for pet costs in your budget. Cleo's AI can help you keep those expenses in check without compromising on your pet's wellbeing. 

‍

🎯 Set up savings goals

Start an emergency fund specifically for your pet. Unexpected vet visit? No problem. Cleo's got your back with a savings pot ready for any surprises.

‍

💸Get a cash advance

Sometimes, emergencies happen. If you're caught off guard by a sudden expense, Cleo can offer a cash advance up to $250¹—no interest, no credit check, no problem.

‍

Why Cleo, You Ask?

Pets are expensive… and we know life doesn't always hand out lemons evenly. That's why Cleo's here to provide helpful resources and tips for looking after your pets during tough economic times or on a low income. With Cleo, you're not just surviving—you're thriving, even when the going gets ruff.

So there you have it, folks. Celebrating National Pet Day doesn't have to mean stressing over costs. With a little help from Cleo, you can give your pets the love and care they deserve without compromising your budget. Whether it's setting up a savings goal, taking advantage of a cash advance in a pinch ⏰ or simply keeping your pet expenses in check. Cleo's here to make pet parenthood a breeze.

‍

‍¹_{Subject to eligibility. Amounts range from $20-$250, and $20-$100 for first-time users. Amounts subject to change. Same day transfers subject to express fees.}