Dogs have long been known to be man’s best friend, and most people own at least one dog. They serve as watchdogs, protectors, emotional support, and companions. However, four-legged friends can be costly, mainly when they are ill or get injured and need emergency veterinary attention.
While it is essential to know you can take care of a dog before getting one, often things happen that you did not expect. For example, your dog could develop a costly disease that is treatable, but at a high price, or your dog could get hit by a car and need lifesaving surgery. The last thing you want to do is have to put your dog down or give it up because you cannot afford to take care of it.
There are options for covering unexpected vet bills. The first option is to get pet insurance. Several companies offer health coverage for your animals to help with veterinary expenses and medications. You can compare pet insurance prices through websites like iSelect to ensure you are getting the best price for the coverage you need.
If you are unsure of what kind of coverage you should look for, you can ask your veterinarian what they would recommend based on the breed of dog you have. Some breeds are more prone to specific health problems than others, which can directly impact potential vet bills down the road.
For sudden high vet bills that you may get after having your dog cared for after an accident, you may want to consider a viatical settlement. Companies like American Life Fund allow you to get money from your life insurance policy or legal settlement upfront, as opposed to waiting for payments over time or after you have passed. While this may not be the ideal option, it can provide you with the money you need.
Another option is to get a short-term loan. While interest rates on short-term loans can be high, they are an easy way to get money quickly. As long as you have good credit and a steady income, you can get the cash you need to cover the vet expenses. However, this is not a viable solution for ongoing medical expenses. Pet insurance is the best way to cover ongoing costs.
Finally, you can ask your veterinarian if they would be willing to take payments on what you owe. Not all veterinarians are willing to accept payments, but if your bill is significant and the procedure is lifesaving, they may consider it. If you have a long-standing relationship with your veterinarian, this may also be a more viable option. Going to a veterinarian you trust will also give you the peace of mind knowing that the vet is not going to recommend unnecessary medications and procedures.
In light of contemplating how to pay for the high cost of vet bills, it is essential to consider the value of preventative medicine. Sometimes spending a small amount of money each month can save you thousands down the road. There may also be some less expensive options depending on the health crisis your pet is facing.
For example, if your dog gets a colitis diagnosis, they need to go on a life-long special involving costly canned dog food. However, an alternative is making homemade dog food with white rice, turkey, and green beans or carrots. It is more work for you and requires a bit of planning and preparation, but it is significantly less expensive than the alternative. Recommended by vets, this diet will provide your dog with everything they need to thrive, and they’ll enjoy it because it is delicious.
