Whether you’re seeking emergency care or a second opinion for your pet’s ailments, the wrong choices can be costly to your pet's health as well as your finances. This is why we’ve put together a quick guide to help compare veterinary care and vet prices.
1. Be Prepared for an Emergency
Determining whether or not a procedure is fairly priced during an emergency situation is difficult, which is why it’s best to be prepared.
Set an emergency plan with your regular vet. Find out if they provide 24-hour service or are affiliated with an emergency care center. If not, see what centers they recommend.
Check out local emergency care centers. Stop by at least three emergency care centers to see what they offer.
- Services: Care for traumatic injuries including fractures, bite wounds, burns, and lacerations. Care for life-threatening neurologic conditions, such as severe seizures.
- Machines: From x-rays to ventilators. Inquire about prices for certain services and how you can pay; check, credit card, or cash, as well as if they accept any pet insurance you may have.
Ask questions during the emergency visit. You have every right to ask any and as many questions as you like. After all, it is your pet’s health that is at hand.
Inquire about the severity of the condition. If the condition is not severe, see if it would be possible to bring your pet back during regular hours for any additional related procedures, when fees are cheaper. Odds are the emergency vet’s original plan will have been to simply stabilize your pet and request you schedule procedures for later. Be sure to get a written diagnosis and cost estimate before you leave; this way you can use it to compare prices before the needed procedure.
Keep the emergency care number on hand. Jot down the phone number to the emergency care center you choose and place it under a magnet on your fridge or save it on your cellphone. When an emergency visit is needed be sure to ask a family member or friend to call the center so they are ready upon your arrival.
2. Make a Routine Care Plan
The best time to do comparison shopping for veterinary health care is between routine wellness visits. If you have a new pet, comparison shopping may be a little more work, since without having a health history, you won’t always know what to expect. Still, certain breeds are prone to certain health issues — check your breed’s probable needs and research the costs of those services. If you’ve had your pet for years, you already know what their health needs are and can better compare costs.
Check out, local vets. Stop by at least three vets to see what they offer and what their prices are, especially when it comes to physical exams, recommended once or twice a year, and teeth cleaning, recommended once a year. Keep in mind that vets often set their other fees as a percentage or multiple of the basic physical exam fee.
Ask about prescription medications. One of the biggest costs when visiting your vet can be the prescription medication you leave with. Instead of purchasing your pet’s medication in the office, ask for a quote along with a written script and compare it to costs via an online pharmacy.
Ask about insurance coverage. If you have a pet insurance plan, see which vets take it. And see exactly which services are covered, as well as what your copays would be.
3. Shop Around for Second Opinions
For some conditions, it’s quite beneficial — and cost-effective — to seek a second opinion.
Ask for a referral. If you feel the treatment that your vet is recommending is priced too high or is beyond what may be needed, you can ask if other cost-effective treatments are available. You can also ask your vet to refer you to another vet, who may be able to administer the treatment at a lower cost or who may suggest other treatment options more in line with what you feel is necessary.
Ask for a written diagnosis. Before you make a choice, get a written diagnosis and cost estimate of the treatment plan. This is what you’ll need to begin seeking a second opinion and comparison shop.
Ask about the treatment options. You can ask if other cost-effective treatments are available before making a choice. You can also ask what the immediate and long-term costs of each treatment are, the prognosis for recovery, and what post-treatment will include. Be sure to bring your vet’s responses when seeking a second opinion.
Ask for a copy of your pet’s health records. Depending on what state you live in, access to your pet’s health records may vary. In some instances, you may be able to request them yourself, or the new veterinarian can call and request the records from the former office on your behalf.
Be prepared to pay. Costs will range from regular office fees to diagnostic tests. There is a chance the vet you are seeking a second opinion from will administer the same tests, so you’ll have to pay again.
As always, your pet’s health comes first. The extra effort it takes to shop around may cost you some personal time, but the savings could be, well, life-saving.
How to Find the Right Vet
Many of us feel as if our pets are members of our family, so we should keep that in mind when we find a vet. Whether you have a bunny, a dog, a cat, or a horse, pets are a big responsibility. Finding the right veterinarian is just as important for your pet as finding the right doctor is for your family.
About Vets
A veterinarian is actually a doctor. Veterinarians are required to complete almost the same amount of training and education that a human doctor must have. This means that your veterinarian is a professional. He or she should be knowledgeable and up-to-date in their chosen field, and most veterinarians are required to amass some form of continuing education credits. So, you have found a person in the phone book with the initials "DVM" following their name. How do you know that this veterinarian is the right choice for your family? A few simple questions will help you to establish a life-long relationship with your new veterinarian.
Choose a Vet Knowledgeable about Your Pet
First, narrow your list of prospective veterinarians by looking at each doctor's chosen specialty. If you have dogs or cats, a small animal practice is going to be the best choice for your individual needs. If your pet is an exotic animal, like a snake or a bird, there are specialized veterinarians to suit your needs, as well. Many veterinarians have become so specialized that they only treat one specific type of animal. These specialties include equine services, cat clinics, and large breed dog clinics, just to name a few. Many veterinary clinics have several doctors working together in one facility.
Ask around for Recommendations
Getting recommendations from your friends can really help you to choose the right vet. Since your friends are most likely familiar with your pets, they will be able to tell you if their vet is a good fit for you. Asking for references at local animal shelters or the county animal control office is another way to find a veterinarian. Most of these animal services have access to many veterinarians and will be able to share their insight as to which are the best. You might also visit several veterinary clinics to get a feel for each office. Is the office neat and tidy? Is the veterinarian personable? Does he or she take the time to listen to your concerns? Making sure that you are comfortable with the new clinic is a good way to ensure that your pet will be comfortable.
Check out the Staff
Spend a bit of time with the veterinarian's office staff. A competent staff is a very important part of any veterinary practice. Make sure that the office has reasonable office hours. A veterinary practice with a single veterinarian on staff might have limited hours of operation so you may be referred to the emergency clinic when your veterinarian's office is closed. If this is the case, make sure that you also familiarize yourself with the emergency veterinarians in your area.
Ask questions while you visit with the staff and see how they respond to your queries. A good staff will be knowledgeable. Remember, the staff will probably spend the most time with your pet at routine visits. They handle taking your pet's vital signs and preparing the pet for the veterinary exam. Question the staff about their experience and their time spent with the veterinarian. A happy and steady staff is a sign of an excellent office. In addition, you can discuss your budget and financial needs with the staff. Many veterinarians are an associate of a practice or a hospital, which means they aren't in charge of handling payments. Talk to the staff members that are, and see if they have budget plans or can recommend a pet insurance policy if you're interested in one.
Finally: Make an Appointment!
Once you think you might have found the right veterinarian for your pet, make an appointment. Communication is the key to a happy and lasting relationship with your new veterinarian. Remember to bring your pet's medical records with you to the appointment, or even fax, mail, or email them a few days ahead of time. This saves time when treating chronic illnesses and will give your vet a chance to get caught up with a complicated medical history. See if your appointment is kept on time, or if it is not, find out why. A chronically late veterinarian is a big disappointment, especially if you are on a tight schedule, but remember that the vet may face emergencies throughout the day. Do give him or her some leeway when it comes to promptness, and judge them on the quality of the time they spend with your pet.
Use a vet finder to find the right veterinarian for your pet.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do different vets have different prices?
Yes, different veterinarians can have different prices for their services. There are several factors that can influence the cost of veterinary care, including the location of the clinic, the type of services being provided, the experience and expertise of the veterinarian, and the overhead costs of running a practice. Additionally, some veterinarians may offer different pricing structures or discounts for certain services, so it can be helpful to shop around and compare prices to find the best value. It is also important to keep in mind that the cost of veterinary care can vary significantly depending on the specific needs of your pet. For example, a routine checkup may be relatively inexpensive, while more complex procedures or treatments, such as surgery or chemotherapy, can be significantly more costly. It is always a good idea to discuss the costs of any veterinary services with the clinic before proceeding to make sure you have a clear understanding of the fees involved and to ensure that you can afford the necessary care for your pet.
How can I make my vet cheaper?
There are a few ways you can try to make veterinary care more affordable. Different veterinary clinics and hospitals may have different prices for the same services. It can be helpful to call around and get quotes from multiple places before deciding where to take your pet. Some veterinary clinics offer discounts for senior citizens, military personnel, or those who have multiple pets. It never hurts to ask if there are any discounts available. Some veterinary clinics offer payment plans or allow you to use a credit card to pay for care. Pet insurance can help cover the costs of unexpected medical bills. There are many different plans available, so it's important to research and compare options to find the one that's right for you and your pet. There are various organizations that offer financial assistance for veterinary care. These programs may be able to help cover the costs of treatment for your pet.
How can I avoid high vet bills?
There are a few things you can do to help avoid high vet bills. Make sure your pet is up to date on their vaccinations and preventive care. This can help prevent the need for expensive treatments in the future. Practice good pet care, including feeding a balanced diet, providing plenty of exercise and fresh water, and keeping your pet clean and groomed. This can help prevent health problems that may require veterinary attention. Consider getting pet insurance. This can help cover the costs of unexpected veterinary bills, such as those associated with accidents or illnesses. Keep an eye on your pet's health and seek veterinary care as soon as you notice any unusual signs or symptoms. Early diagnosis and treatment can often help prevent the need for more costly interventions later on. Shop around for veterinary care. Prices for the same services can vary widely among different clinics and hospitals, so it's worth it to do your research and compare prices before deciding on a provider. Consider alternative treatments, such as acupuncture or herbal remedies, which may be less expensive than traditional veterinary care. However, be sure to consult with your veterinarian before trying any alternative treatments. Make sure your pet's vaccinations and preventive care are up to date. This can help prevent the need for expensive treatments in the future. Practice good pet care, including feeding a balanced diet, providing plenty of exercise and fresh water, and keeping your pet clean and groomed. This can help prevent health problems that may require veterinary attention.
How much do most vet visits cost?
The cost of a veterinary visit can vary widely depending on a number of factors, including the type of animal, the location of the practice, the services provided, and the severity of the case. In general, a routine checkup for a healthy pet may cost anywhere from $50 to $100, while a more complicated or emergency visit could cost several hundred dollars or more. It's important to keep in mind that the cost of a veterinary visit can also vary based on the type of services provided. For example, a routine checkup may include a physical examination, vaccinations, and preventive care, while a more complex visit may involve diagnostic tests, medications, or surgery. If you're concerned about the cost of veterinary care, it may be helpful to ask your veterinarian about payment options or to explore the possibility of getting pet insurance to help cover the costs of unexpected veterinary bills.
How much should I set aside for vet bills?
It's difficult to give a specific amount that you should set aside for vet bills, as the cost of veterinary care can vary widely depending on a number of factors, including the type of animal, the location of the practice, the services provided, and the severity of the case. A routine checkup for a healthy dog or cat may cost around $50 to $100. A spay or neuter surgery for a dog or cat may cost between $200 and $500. Treatment for a minor injury, such as a laceration or broken bone, may cost anywhere from $500 to $1,500. Treatment for a serious illness, such as cancer or organ failure, could cost several thousand dollars or more. In general, it's a good idea to have a savings fund set aside for unexpected veterinary bills. This can help ensure that you have the financial resources available to pay for necessary treatments if your pet becomes ill or injured. One way to budget for veterinary care is to set aside a certain amount of money each month specifically for this purpose. You may also want to consider getting pet insurance, which can help cover the costs of unexpected veterinary bills, such as those associated with accidents or illnesses. Ultimately, the amount of money you should set aside for vet bills will depend on your personal financial situation and the needs of your pet. It's always a good idea to be prepared for unexpected expenses and to communicate with your veterinarian about the costs of any necessary treatments or procedures.
More on Pet Care Costs
Reasonable Pet Vaccinations Costs
Understanding the Lifetime Cost of a Cat
How Much Should Spay a Pet Cost?
This information is for informational purposes only and is not meant as a substitute for the professional advice of, or diagnosis or treatment by, your veterinarian with respect to your pet. It has, however, been verified by a licensed veterinarian for accuracy.
