Do it yourself pet projects can save you money - DC Breaking Local News Weather Sports FOX 5 WTTG

Are you looking to save money on your pet? Pet guru Charlotte Reed says do it yourself projects are a great way to do just that!

Reed says do-it-yourself grooming is one of the best ways to save money. She says grooming visits can cost anywhere between $30 and $50 a month!

"Push the grooming shop back. If you go once a month, try to push it back every six weeks. Learn how to clip your dogs nails at home," said Reed.

Taking care of your pet at home could also save you hundreds of dollars at the vet.

"One of the number one reasons dogs go to the vet is because they have ear infections. So instead of spending the $90 or $100, imagine if you just cleaned your dog's ears once a week. It only takes five minutes," Reed said.

She says another problem with dogs is that by the age of three periodontal disease is evident.

"So if you spend that five minutes a week brushing, you should really do every day, but if you can't, try to commit to once a week. The preventative measures that you're doing are going to save you money in the long run," said Reed.

Another do it yourself project that's fun for you, your kids, and especially your pet, is making toys with stuff you already have around the house.

"You always have stuff around the house that you can use, and you don't even realize it. Whether it's shredded wash cloths that you can tie, and they can chew those," Reed said.

Another tool to save money on pets is an AAA membership. It gets you discounts at some stores that carry pet necessities, like food and toys or car seat covers and harnesses.

Some consider their pet's wardrobe a necessity. You can save money on clothes and costumes too by knowing when to shop. Reed says most retail chains start to discount their seasonal clothes 10 days before a holiday, then the prices drop more six days out, then four days out.

"You can get a costume right before the holidays so you're dog can be in style. You can also save a little bit of money," said Reed.

Another DIY idea is to staple carpeting on an old step ladder so that cats can use it for climbing. For more information, click here!