How to Lower Veterinary Bills

Pets are a wonderful source of happiness, but unfortunately they can be expensive to care for. Veterinary bills are often one of the highest costs associated with pet care. Take the necessary steps to ensure your pet lives a healthy, happy life and lower your veterinary bills at the same time.

Difficulty: Moderate

Instructions

1. Take good care of your pet--a healthy pet doesn't need as many trips to the vet. Always follow a proper preventive care schedule, such as a monthly wormer or flea medication application. Keep an accurate record of your pet's vaccination schedule so you're familiar with the vaccinations your pet has had and will need in the future.

2. Brush your pet's teeth yourself. You can find the appropriate pet toothpaste at a pet store. Start when your pet is young so they become accustomed to this procedure. By doing it yourself, you won't have to pay your vet to do it for you.

3. Spend a few extra dollars on premium pet food. Just like humans, pets that eat high quality, nutritious foods on a regular basis are less likely to develop health problems.

4. Exercise your pet regularly. Pets become overweight, just like humans. Help your pet avoid the negative health consequences associated with being overweight by providing them with the appropriate amount of exercise.

5. Ask your vet if they offer any discounts or reduced fee programs. Many communities and veterinary offices offer programs that lower the costs associated with spaying or neutering pets. Always take advantage of these savings.

6. Shop around for pet medications and treatments to get the best deal.

Tips & Warnings

• Never jeopardize the health of your pet to save money. If you can't afford to provide proper care for your pet, you should give it to someone who can.

Resources

• Visit peteducation.com for resources on your pet's health.
• Petsmart.com has health care products for sale and reference articles for more information.

[lesley1924]

on 7/12/2008 The vet clinic I work at is offering a FREE exam for new patients! (normally $41) We also have very comparable prices when it comes to monthly heartworm prevention and flea and tick prevention. www.eastonanimalhospital.com (Our website is currently under construction, so please don't mind any errors!) I would love to see your pet! =)

[Beverlyz]

on 7/4/2008 Through our home based business, Zurvita, we save money at vets who are providers. We also save alot of money on the meds that our German Shepherd takes for her eye condition. Visit: http://www.greatmoney.zurvita.biz Click on products and then click on Care Saver Program.

[diggitydogg]

on 12/6/2007 There are mobile pet units that visit most areas where you can get your pet's vaccinations, including rabies, at a much lower cost than at the regular vet. Just make sure it's operated by a licensed veterinarian...they usually are. They are most often on a Sat. or Sun. in the parking lot or inside a pet supply store. Also, you can buy things like flea and heart worm preventative much cheaper from mail order services such as 1-800-PetMeds.