Taking care of a diabetic dog can be a costly endeavor. Insulin – the hormone that regulates glucose levels in the blood – is the most important part of your dog’s treatment, and it can also be the most expensive. Managing blood sugar levels is crucial for the health and well-being of diabetic dogs. But it doesn’t have to be. Here we’ll share some tips for saving money on your dog’s insulin.
How Much Does Dog Insulin Cost?
Dog insulin cost anywhere from $30 to $150 per month. The actual cost per month will vary, depending on whether you buy the medication from the veterinarian, an online pharmacy, or use generic/brand name medication. The monthly cost of treating a dog with diabetes can be lowered (up to 75%) by using a pharmacy benefits plan. Managing canine diabetes also involves additional costs such as specialized diabetic dog food, regular veterinary checkups, and blood tests. Learn more about more ways to save on dog insulin below.
Buying at the Vet vs. Online
Purchasing insulin from your veterinarian may seem like the most convenient option, but it is usually not the most cost-effective. This is because the majority of veterinarians and clinics markup their medications – anywhere from 100% to 160% over wholesale prices. Most vets also charge a $5 to $15 dispensing fee.*
Online retailers can keep prices low by buying in bulk and cutting out administrative costs. If you do order insulin online, it will require special overnight shipping, which can sometimes translate into high shipping costs. Insulin must be kept cold, so it requires special packaging and must arrive to its destination quickly. Despite this, buying online will probably still cost less than buying from your vet.
Controlling blood sugar levels is crucial, and finding cost-effective insulin options can help manage the condition better.
Buying Brand Name vs. Generic
If you are wondering what the difference is between brand name and generic drugs, the answer is: not much. Generic drugs have the same active ingredients and medicinal effects as their brand name versions, but they cost less because the manufacturer did not have to pay for the development or marketing of the drug.
The price difference between brand name and generic drugs can be small or significant, but in general, you will always save if you choose the generic. For example, the brand name insulin Humulin has a retail price of $100-$130, while its generic version, Novolin, sells for $70-$100. Managing diabetes mellitus effectively can be achieved with both brand name and generic insulin, and cost savings can be significant.
Saving on Insulin with a Pharmacy Benefits Plan
Want to save even more? Consider a pharmacy benefits plan. These plans are able to offer amazing savings and convenience by partnering with drug companies, pharmacies, veterinarians, and more. Pharmacy benefits plans are not pet insurance. Instead, a monthly or yearly fee earns you better prices on pet medications. You could save up to 75% on your dog’s insulin! Managing a dog's health, including diabetes, can be financially challenging, and pharmacy benefits plans can help alleviate some of the costs.
Sign up or learn more about PetPlus by PetCareRx, the first ever comprehensive savings plan for pets, and find out how much a membership will help you save.
*Consumer Reports: Don’t Automatically Get Pet Medicines From the Vet
Frequently Asked Questions
What if I can't afford my dog's insulin?
If you’re having trouble affording your dog’s insulin, there are a few options you can consider. First, ask your veterinarian for a discount. Some veterinarians may be willing to provide a discount for those in need, so don’t be afraid to ask. Also, there are organizations that offer financial assistance for pet owners who need help paying for veterinary care, including medications like insulin. Controlling a dog's blood sugar levels is crucial for managing diabetes, and financial assistance can help ensure consistent treatment. Different pharmacies may have different prices for insulin. Try calling a few different places to see if you can find a more affordable option. If your veterinarian recommends it, you can also ask about switching to a generic form of insulin, which may be more affordable. Finally, look for ways to cut costs in other areas of your budget to free up money for your dog’s insulin. Keep in mind that treating a pet’s illness, including managing a condition like diabetes, is an ongoing expense. It’s crucial to have a plan in place for how you’ll pay for this care over the long term.
What is the average cost of insulin for dogs?
The cost of insulin for dogs can vary widely, depending on a number of factors, including the type of insulin, the size of the dog, the frequency of treatment, and where you live. On average, the cost of insulin for dogs can range from $40 to $150 per month, although it can be more or less than that, depending on the factors mentioned above. For smaller dogs, it’s usually between $40 - $80, while for larger dogs, it can be $80- $150. It’s always a good idea to check with your veterinarian to get a more accurate estimate of the cost of insulin for your specific dog and to discuss any options for financial assistance that may be available. The costs associated with managing canine diabetes can vary widely and include medication, specialized food, and regular veterinary checkups.
Can I use Walmart insulin for my dog?
Walmart does sell insulin for humans, but it’s not recommended to use insulin intended for human use on dogs. The insulin sold under the Walmart brand is manufactured by Novo Nordisk, which is an intermediate-acting NPH human-recombinant insulin. The drug has not been approved for use on animals of any kind. On the other hand, ProZinc (protamine zinc recombinant human insulin) is an insulin manufactured for use on dogs and cats. Insulin made for human use may have different dosing and administration guidelines than what is appropriate for dogs. It’s also important to note that insulin made for human use may not have been tested or approved for use in animals, which means its safety and effectiveness in dogs haven’t been established. Managing diabetes mellitus in dogs requires veterinary guidance to ensure the safety and effectiveness of the treatment.
Do you need a prescription for dog insulin?
Yes, you need a prescription from a veterinarian to obtain insulin for a dog. Insulin is a prescription medication, and it’s important that it’s used under the guidance of a veterinarian to ensure the safety and effectiveness of treatment. A veterinarian will be able to assess your dog’s condition, diagnose diabetes if necessary, and determine the appropriate type and dose of insulin for your dog’s individual needs. Regular veterinary checkups are crucial for managing diabetes in dogs and ensuring the effectiveness of the treatment.
What is the average life expectancy of a diabetic dog?
The life expectancy of a diabetic dog depends on several factors, including the overall health of the dog, the severity of diabetes, and the effectiveness of treatment. With proper management and treatment, many diabetic dogs are able to live long, healthy lives, apart from the few cases where the dog may succumb in the first 3 months. Some dogs may require insulin injections for the rest of their lives, while others may be able to manage their diabetes through diet and lifestyle changes. The median survival for dogs with diabetes is 2 years. However, in general, dogs with well-controlled diabetes have a life expectancy that is similar to that of non-diabetic dogs of the same breed and age. With proper care, many diabetic dogs are able to live happy and active lives for several years after their diagnosis. Maintaining a dog's health through proper management of blood sugar levels can significantly improve their life expectancy.
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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.
