sadly, it is soooo true... people really do need to consider the cost of vet bills when accepting a new pup into their family. as others have said, care credit can be a godsend, plus i have a credit card just for doggie emergencies. every so often there will be an extra pay period in the month, so that is a good time to save $ for your pets or plan their needs around that. if you regularly see your veterinarian and establish a good relationship with him/her, many (like mine) will offer to accept payments directly. i have never had to take our wonderful vet up on that offer, but i am so thankful that she has offered. there are so many ways that you can make it work!!! beleive me, if i could afford it i would have 4 little furbutts running around right now lol. but i am just as happy to have my 2 and feel very fortunate to have them and be able to do whatever needs to be done!!!
we were very lucky that my zowi has been extremely healthy her entire life but at 9 years old started to have problems and was diagnosed with cushing's disease. currently, all her meds are costing just under $4 per day, about $120 or so a month. she has to get a blood test sent to the university of tennessee every 2 months at miniumum. when we 1st started her treatment in june it was $185 and just last week she had it done and it has gone up to $255! often we have had to do that test every 3 weeks while getting her dose adjusted correctly. plus she needs regular bloodwork done every 3 months at minimum at about $100. she will need the meds and tests for the rest of her life. my little nika (rip) had several medical issues (bad reactions to shots, allergies, hypoglycemia, pancreatitis) starting from a 6 week old pup and by the time she was a year old was a $3,500 dog. that's only the first year! several er visits over the 6 years she was with us cost between $400-1,300 each time. this does not even include groomers, bi-yearly dentals, dog training classes, toys, food, treat, etc.
ALL THIS BEING SAID, IT IS / WAS ALL MONEY WELL SPENT AND I HAVE NO REGRETS! but i know that 2 is my limit once you factor in all the expenses and of course, you want to be able to spoil them rotten and have fun with them lol. my girls have been on doggie boat cruises, carriage rides, etc. my babies care is very important and we never ever compromise that. thanks for pointing this out and posting this!!! |