[CorkyMax]

If you have a house full of animal lovers like I do, then chances are you have more than one pet. Families are known to collect all sorts of pets, from dogs to cats to guinea pigs to rabbits to snakes. And unless you're
a movie star or the CEO of an oil company, you're probably always looking for ways to save money on pet supplies. Food, bedding, toys, shampoo, shots, medications and everything else can add up pretty quickly. If you're in the same boat as I am, check out some of the ways that I save money on pet supplies.

Make Sure Your Pets Need Those Shots. About two years ago, I switched veterinarians and was told that my dogs don't actually need some shots updated as frequently as many vets will have you believe. I checked it out online and with a few veterinarians I know in Houston and discovered that it's true. When it comes time to update your pets' shots, save money by asking which vaccinations are actually necessary.

Buy Used Toys & Bedding. I guarantee that your pets aren't going to know if you buy a used crate, cage or chew toy. If your friends have had pets in the past, see if they have any leftover pet supplies you could use and check out some of the websites online like Craigslist.org and FreeCycle.com. You can always save money on pet supplies by either buying things used or taking things that other people don't need anymore. In fact, my mother's been trying to get rid of three rabbit hutches for the last six years.

Sell Your Old Pet Supplies. You can always save money on new pet supplies by simply selling the ones that you don't need anymore. If you can find takers for the floor bed that your dog has outgrown or the aquarium you don't use anymore, you'll have more money in the bank to buy brand new supplies and you'll come out on top. You can post free ads on Craigslist.org or you can talk to your family, friends and neighbors to see who needs what

Buy Pet Meds Online. It is far less expensive to buy pet medication online than it is through your veterinarian or through a pet store. This is especially useful if you are looking for a medication that isn't often
carried in your local pet store. Online stores can not only help you save money on pet supplies but can also offer a better selection. 1800PetMeds.com is the site that I use and they always have the medications I need in stock. I've also heard that PetCareRX.com is good.

Buy in Bulk. If you have several animals, buy large quantities of food and medication at a time to save money. This is especially true if you order online because you can often save money on shipping and handling if you order larger quantities.

Make Your Own Toys. There's absolutely no reason why you have to pay $9.99 for a rope toy when you can make on for free out of strands of old rope in your garage. There are plenty of websites on which you can learn how to make pet toys and they are far cheaper than if you were to buy a similar product at the store. DogToys.com is one such site and I like WorldWise.com, as well.