Pet Owners Struggle with Medical Care Costs

Abena Williams
WDEF.com
February 6, 2009

Six the dog recently had surgery and just finished up his physical therapy. While many people dread paying their own medical bills, Deane Peterson says paying for his pets treatment is worth it.

Peterson, "We put our animals first so we'll take the sacrifices we need to."

In this faltering economy, many people simply can't afford medical care for their pets. It's something Dr. Billy Pullen of River Vet Emergency Clinic has noticed.

Dr. Pullen, "Sometimes they have to make difficult decisions for their pet, life and death decisions. And you hate that finances have to factor into that but sometimes they do."

Dr. Pullen says the economy has forced many people to skip costly MRI's and other treatments when their pet is sick or suffers an injury. Pullen, "On the emergency side they are seeing more people that aren't able to pursue a full diagnostic workup and things like that." Riley is a lucky dog, he was hit by a car but his owners were able to save him.

Deane Peterson, "I really feel for a lot of people out there with the economy these days that can't afford, it's a choice between paying the heating bill or getting their own medication."

Dr. Pullen says preventative care can help pet owners save money in the long run.

Pullen, "The routine things really are very important, a balanced diet, exercise, weight management. Just like in us it plays a major role in general health."

Many people opt for credit when an emergency strikes. Pet insurance is also an option, but Dr. Pullen reminds people to read the fine print. Dr. Pullen, "In most situations the owner has to pay up front and they're reimbursed, you have to be careful because most of them don't cover pre-existing conditions."

Riley and Six will both bounce back, something their owners are grateful for.