SCHAUMBURG, Ill., Sept. 20, 2012 /PRNewswire-USNewswire/ -- The American Veterinary Medical Association (AVMA) has assembled expert advice and simple steps that will help pet owners save money while still protecting their pet's health.

The recommendations make up the AVMA's "Money tips for caring pet owners," which is available for free on the association's website. The tips cover everything from choosing a veterinarian to the importance of regular veterinary exams and vaccinations, and how to be smart about buying and administering pet medications. Special attention is also paid to pet nutrition.

"Cutting costs is part of our daily lives in today's economy. Everyone is trying to save money, including pet owners. But a penny saved can turn out to be pound foolish when it comes to pet health," says AVMA President Dr. Doug Aspros. "Cutting corners isn't good for your pet's health. It might save you a few dollars in the short run, but it could cost you and your pet much more in the long term."

One of the biggest things pet owners can do to save money is to make regular veterinary visits part of their family routine.

"Providing pets with regular preventive care is the key to a healthy and long life for your pet, and it can save you hundreds – or even thousands – of dollars by identifying problems earlier, when they may be easier to treat and less expensive to solve," said Dr. Aspros.

The AVMA, founded in 1863, is one of the oldest and largest veterinary medical organizations in the world, with more than 82,500 member veterinarians worldwide engaged in a wide variety of professional activities and dedicated to the art and science of veterinary medicine.

SOURCE American Veterinary Medical Association