WHITING, Ind., Sept. 20, 2011 /PRNewswire/ — Dog care expenses may take a bite out of many consumers’ wallets, but even in challenging financial times, Fido comes out on top. According to a new survey from CouponCabin.com, conducted in honor of National Dog Week (September 19-25), nearly seven-in-ten (68 percent) American adult dog owners said that economic ups and downs have no effect on their dog care spending. This survey was conducted online nationwide by Harris Interactive on behalf of CouponCabin.com from August 16 – 18, 2011, among 2,212 U.S. adults aged 18 and older.

Despite tough economic conditions, furry friends continue to be a large part of many budgets. According to market research firm Packaged Facts, Americans spent $55 billion on their pets in 2010, while CouponCabin.com’s survey found that more than one-in-five (21 percent) dog owners spend on average $100 or more per month on their dogs, adding up to at least $1,200 or more per year. An additional 13 percent said they spend $50-$99 each month.

“The pet care industry has remained resilient during the past few years, but it’s still important for consumers to budget for their dog’s needs,” said Jackie Warrick, President and Chief Savings Officer at CouponCabin.com, a leading online coupon site. “Pets are often considered a family member, and just as you save money and budget for your family, you should do the same for your dog. Plan ahead to make sure you have money put away for emergencies. In addition, be proactive and save on your dog care expenses by using coupons, buying generic brands and asking friends and family to walk or watch them.”

Keeping their dogs healthy and fed top the list of owners’ costly expenses. When owners were asked what they think is the priciest aspect of having a dog, they said the following:

• Veterinary appointments – 57 percent
• Food and treats – 16 percent
• Prescriptions and medications – 15 percent
• Boarding – 6 percent

When it comes to different demographics, first comes love, then comes marriage, then comes… dog? The survey also found that more married couples own dogs than single, never married, adults. Half of married couples own dogs, compared to 34 percent of single adults. Household sizes are also a factor in dog ownership, as 53 percent of adults with three or more people in their household own dogs, compared to 39 percent of those with 1-2 people in their household.

Warrick offers the following tips for saving money on man’s best friend:

Pet peeve: If dogs have pet peeves, one of them must be getting dressed up as humans… by humans. Focus on the essential items for keeping your dog happy and healthy, and skip the clothes, Halloween costumes and booties. Your wallet – and your dog – will thank you.

Take a walk online: No bones about it, there are tons of good deals for dogs to be had online. A lot of the items that your dog needs, such as food, toys and personal care products, can be bought in advance online and shipped right to your door. Don’t forget to visit coupon sites like CouponCabin.com to grab the best possible savings for Fido.

Minimize the pooch perks: Sure, it’s great if your dog can spend the day in a pooch hotel when you’re at work or if they have a designer leash, but those expenses might not necessary. Pamper your pet with love and affection and cut back on the extraneous expenses.

Survey Methodology:

This survey was conducted online within the United States by Harris Interactive on behalf of CouponCabin from August 16 – 18, 2011, among 2,212 U.S. adults aged 18 and older. This online survey is not based on a probability sample and therefore, no estimate of theoretical sampling error can be calculated. For complete survey methodology, including weighting variables, please contact: Allison Nawoj, anawoj@lakeshoreint.com.

About CouponCabin.com

CouponCabin is a leading online destination for coupons including online coupon codes, printables, grocery coupons and more. Shoppers have saved nearly $250 million since 2003 and with the largest selection of coupons guaranteed to work, CouponCabin.com is the best place to start searching for savings. The average user saves $19 in just 80 seconds on the site. With customized email newsletters, browser savings alerts, new coupon alerts and more, shoppers will never miss out on a great deal with CouponCabin.com. For more information, please visit http://www.CouponCabin.com.

SOURCE:  CouponCabin.com