How to Save on Veterinary Care - Page 2 | Dog & Cat Health, Wellness, Products and Breed Information

How to Save on Veterinary Care - Page 2
| Print | By | October 3, 2008 2:02 PM

Keep Up with Upkeep

Brushing your pets regularly can reduce furballs in cats and can buy you time between professional groomings. "Have your vet teach you how to clip nails on dogs, cats, ferrets and bunnies and ask how to maintain dental health", suggested Anne Marie White of Utica, N.Y, owner of 5 cats and a ferret and former associate director of the Stevens Swan Humane Society.

Dental problems can shorten your pet's life span and cost a small fortune. After Brian Crouch's Swedish Lapphund, named Vanna Gogh, broke her lower right canine, he was told it either needed extraction (which would shorten her life span) or filling: the latter would cost over $2500. "We live in Seattle so we drove up to a city south of Vancouver, left the dog with a veterinary dentist, and made a day of it in a scenic part of Canada," said Crouch. "Our dog got to keep her tooth for less than the cost of extraction, and she had great care."

Buy your Own Supplies

Laura Jackson of Chicago, IL had to give her dog subcutaneous fluids for about 18 months. "One bag of fluid cost $20 at the vet and it was about $3 online! When you're using a bag every two days, this is not insignificant.

Same thing for the needles: they cost 25 cents each at the vet. The last box I bought cost about $6 for 100 needles." All Jackson needed was her vet to call in the Rx to the online supplier, which he was happy to do.

Preventatives like Frontline and Heartguard are available online as well.

DON'T Scrimp on Diet

Money is better spent on good quality pet food, free from by-products and dyes, than vet visits later. Avoid feeding your pets table scraps. "Realize that fancy pet shop brand does not necessarily mean best quality, and the name brand grocery store pet food does not necessary mean "junk" food," said Dr. Currigan. "Talk with your veterinarian about the best diet for your pet and one that is less costly, if your cat (or dog) does not have special nutritional needs."

Want to learn more about pet cost saving? Check out 11 Ways to Save on Pet Costs!