Saving Money on Vet Bills
Today, many of us are focused on how to most efficiently tighten our financial belts to save money. With the state of our economy today, most pet lovers sharing their hearts and homes with dogs, cats and other critters more than likely are being faced with difficult decisions in planning budgets to care for our pets.
Coincidentally, today I received an article published by The ASPCA which gave helpful and valuable suggestions designed to help pet owners in planning how to save money. The information was so important; it inspired me to write about it. Here are some of their suggestions.
1. Annual checkups and vaccinations are far less expensive in the long run than treating an illness which could have been prevented. While some vaccines are optional, discuss an appropriate vaccine schedule with your vet.
2. Keep your pet's vaccines up to date. While some are considered optional, it is wise to discuss an appropriate vaccine schedule to which you and your veterinarian agree.
3. Annual dental checkups are crucial. Healthy gums and teeth are important building blocks to a pet's robust condition. With patience and practice it is easy to brush your pet's teeth daily. As a part of regular grooming, this small task can help prevent kidney disease and other medical conditions which are costly to treat.
4. Protect your pet from parasites. Talk to your veterinarian about a regular flea and tick prevention program. While many over-the-counter products may be less costly, in the long run they can be dangerous and far less effective. Ticks and fleas carry diseases which can affect both pets and humans so it is wise to use the best products available.
5. Spay and neuter your pets. Spaying a female dog or cat before their first estrus may prevent mammary cancer. Additionally spaying prevents uterine Cancer and dangerous infections. Neutering can prevent most behavioral problems in both dogs and cats. Visit the ASPCA's data-base to find low cost Neuter Spay programs in your area.
6. Often it is cost-effective to have your pet's medical condition diagnosed and treated by a veterinary specialist at the onset of illness. For conditions ranging from eye problems to Cancer, there are experts in the field who may be willing to work within your budget. Additionally there financial service plans available, similar to Care Credit, which is interest-free for the first year of billing.
7. Check out Pet Insurance. Of course, read the "fine print" in potential policies as not all conditions are covered, and not all Pet Insurance programs are the same. Of course it is best to have your pet covered while young and in excellent health.
8. Feed the highest quality diet to your pets. Excellent nutrition is, of course the basic building block for sound health and condition. While bargain store brands may seem appealing, read the labels of the products carefully. Avoid products which contain by-products and choose those that list meat as the first ingredient. Products should fit the guidelines provided by The American Association of Feed Control. Check your local newspapers and online pet stores for coupons and sales for pet food.
What are some ways that you are saving money related to your pets? Share them with us by leaving a comment.
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Comments (4)
Amy January 16, 2009 8:40 AM
First of all I do keep up with annual checkups and shots. In addition to that my vet gives a 10% discount if you bring in three critters at one time.
Last visit was four cats getting checkups and shots. With the discount my cost was $240.00 which I didn't think was too bad.
Vicki January 16, 2009 9:37 AM
With nine dogs I am always looking for ways to cut costs. But I will not compromise their nutrition, or veterinary care. I always look for coupons to help with food costs. Even so, my dogs still cost me a fortune.
Joanne January 16, 2009 9:44 AM
I just bit the bullet and took out pet insurance. After nearly going blind reading all the fine print for the various plans I chose the plan sponsored by HSUS - Humane Society of the United States. Of course Mikey is six and has had some medical bumps in the road - so I hope he doesn't have too many exclusions - he is hypothyroid - so we'll see - but you could customize the level of coverage and they reimburse the WHOLE vet bill not according to a benefit schedule or "reasonable and customary" costs.
So we'll see.
Skylark January 16, 2009 9:54 AM
As a veterinary assistant in a very busy local animal hospital, I wholeheartedly agree with you on this, Jo. Prevention is much more affordable than treating a disease or life-threatening illness, and yearly exams and appropriate vaccinations can prevent many of those life-threatening illnesses.
It goes without saying that we all love our pets dearly; otherwise, why have them? If you can prevent disease or catch it early enough to do something about it, why wouldn't you?
A simple plan to put some $$ aside every month for pet health care could mean the difference between life and death for your pet. Or take out a health insurance policy on your pet. It isn't that expensive.
I know that economic times are very difficult for all of us right now, but please don't be one of those pet owners who have to opt for what is becoming known as "economic euthanasia."
Skylark
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