July 2010

Planning for Your Pet's Medical Care

Dear Doctor,

After reading your article last month about Blastomycosis, it made me realize that I may not be able to afford to care for my dog if he would ever develop a disease like that. Do you have any suggestions for how to care for my dog if he would ever need expensive medical care?

Signed,
George in Stevens Point

Your question is excellent, as many people do not consider the cost of health care when they add a new pet to their family. Routine health care, such as vaccinations and annual examinations, are easier to budget for each year. However, the unexpected illness or emergency surgery can come at considerable cost, especially as medical technology becomes more advanced. At times like these, many pet owners may actually need to consider euthanasia if their budget does not allow for advanced medical care. This is a heartbreaking situation for everyone involved.

To answer your question, I think it is wise to establish a savings account designated for the care of your pet. You may choose to add to the account every month, or once per year, depending on your preference. If you do not encounter any unusual medical problems with your pet, the accumulated funds could be used toward your next pet, or you could designate a specific charity for a donation.

Another option is to purchase veterinary health insurance. There are many companies to choose from, with different degrees of coverage. It is wise to find a company that does not exclude hereditary or congenital diseases, as well as one that offers the option for cancer care. Most companies do exclude pre-existing conditions, so start the policy when your pet is young. Some of the companies will offer reasonable coverage for routine care, such as vaccinations and parasite preventative, as well as spays and dental procedures. If you are interested in health insurance for your pet, your veterinarian may be able to give you some feedback on the policies offered by the various companies.

If you encounter an emergency situation that exceeds your available funds, most veterinary clinics accept Care Credit, which is a credit card service that will allow you to pay your balance immediately. With this program, you have six months to repay the balance in full without incurring interest (as long as the balance is paid as specified). However, if you are unable to pay the balance in the specified time, you will incur substantial fees from Care Credit, so plan accordingly.

I think it is wonderful that you are thinking about the financial considerations associated with the care of your pet. I would also suggest that you discuss your philosophy of health care with any family members, if applicable. I often find that families have not considered the extent of care that they will provide for their pet, and while one family member may want to do anything and everything for a pet, another family member does not believe in pursuing advanced medical care. This can add significant stress to the situation if these philosophical differences must be worked out after the pet is in need of additional medical care. Having this discussion ahead of time will allow the family to proceed as a team united, not divided.

Best wishes for the good health of your pet!