What Do You Do When Your in a Bind and Can't Afford Pet (Vet) Care?

Check to see if your vet, or one in the area, works with the Care Credit. They have a payment plan with no interest, and no upfront pet insurance costs.

1 mom found this helpful

im in the same boat as you are.its hideous what vets charge-both my dogs are rescues,so far ive found nothing.if you do come up with someone-can you please email me the info??..banfeild has a great insurance plan-but you have to pay so much up front..if you can afford that-then all is good..###-###-####..they have spots all over the metro area-plus their really great with animals....

It is sad isn't it? There really isn't much out there that you can do. I think with things the way they are financially speaking, there will be a lot of people resorting to euthanasia if they can't find a good shelter or home to take their pet(s).

I just saw on the national news recently that some food shelters actually distribute pet food and pet basics to those in need. I don't know if there is anything like that here, but perhaps you could call around and see if there is something like that. Maybe start with the Humane Society. It seems they'd know something like that.

There are many books on holistic healing and medicine for pets. I know home remedies are iffy, but some do work well.

Just like for people, you can buy pet medications online and save money that way. Go to www.drsfosterandsmith.com.

One option is to try to find a vet willing to work out a payment plan with you. Unfortunately, I don't know anyone. I do have a great Vet, and maybe she'd work something out for you. If you want her contact info, just e-mail me.

Many pet chains like PetSmart and Petco have in-house clinics and the prices are at least competitive. You could go that route.

Lastly, and this is just a maybe because I don't know for sure, you could try calling a school of Veterinary Medicine in your area, and see if you can get reduced services that way.
There is pet insurance available. It has come down in price over the years as it has gained popularity, but it's still pricey. You might want to check with your vet. They usually have information available. Or check these links;

http://www.petsbest.com/TenThingsYouShouldKnow.aspx

http://www.petinsurance.com/affiliates/SearchIntelligence...

engine=google&keyword=mnpet+insurance&match_type=&gclid=CP-cnMnymZ4CFQsMDQodyEwelg

http://www.gopetplan.com/index.html?

http://www.purinacare.com/index.aspx?DCMP=KNC-CARE-Goog-2...

I haven't read any of the other responses so sorry if I have repeated any. I would check with a school that does Vet Tech. I know that when you go to a dental school or a beauty school you can recieve services for a reduced rate. It might be worth a shot.

GOOD LUCK!!

I just want to dito what JL said, I think she offered a lot of great ideas. I especially like the vet school suggestion, very creative and pratical. My cousin is losing his house right now and he and his wife had to bring their dogs to a shelter. Times are tough. Good luck with whatever you do.