I just have to ask

[mishoga]

I read so many heartbreaking stories here and wonder what can someone do if they can't afford all these expensive procedures and tests for their pups?

I live a relatively good life and have financial stability but we are conservative due to my son's illness. We can't be reckless with whatever amount of money we have saved for a rainy day as we never quite know when and if my son will need to have a very expensive procedure or expensive drug therapy that aren't covered under insurance. My son's treatments alone cost $7800.00 every 8 weeks and right now he is in remission but that can change at any moment.

I would be sick to my stomach if something were to happen to my pups that involved big $$$$. I would be torn. Of course my son comes first but I never want to have to choose.

What does someone do when the vet says they need test or perform a very expensive procedure? Do most vets have payment plans?

I can't help but wonder every time I read a post about tests, procedures and operations.

[Tinker's mom]

We've had four pretty expensive surgeries, my vet has a payment plan.

[mishoga]

I would hope that all vets would offer that in the event that a procedure needed to be done to save a dog and someone couldn't afford it.
My heart just breaks with some of the stories here

[MopsMeister]

Hi Mishoga,
Good question! I'd like to hear the responses as well.
Personally I have been blessed to have a really good friend with excellent credit. lol lol. The few times that I had "Pug Emergencies" he has let me put the bill on one of his rarely used credit cards. The most expensive Pug Emergency was around $300 and I paid him back within 2 months.

The opportunity for me to have a huge Pug Emergency however is very real. I'm disabled and live on $934 a month. I've learned over the years to live within my means and actually live quite comfortably so long as I don't have any large, unplanned expenses. I would hope that my Vet would allow me to make substantial yet reasonable monthly payments. If not I would probably have to get a Pay Day Loan at 528% interest.

[6 Beautiful Pugs]

Care Credit is quite popular out here if you have somewhat decent credit. There are also organizations that offer to help people with large emergency bills, however most require that you apply for Care Credit first and have been declined. Some vets (a vanishing breed) do allow you to make monthly payments. Some folks keep an empty credit card for such things, have a savings account that they pay into each month, or hope to get loan from family or friends.

However every day people are forced to euthanize dogs that may have recovered well had their owners been able to pay for treatment...it is sad, but so true.

Take care,
Lisa

[freak]

Care credit is the way to go if you are in need of help, my son has used them several times since he has weiner dogs.
2 back opreations for one of them.

i would do whatever is in my means to save my pugs. cant imagine life without them.
they bring me so much joy and happiness every day, they are worth every penny.

[pugaddiction]

I would speak to your vet about payment plans before anything happens that is costly. And if that vet isn't willing, maybe seak out one that is. We are blessed with a wonderful vet who allows me to make payments when the dogs have their teeth cleaned and if we (god forbid) have a emergency and any procedures are costly I know he will allow us to make payments.

[puglover22]

get insurance
it's worth the peace of mind

[CSollers]

One of the best things you can do for the long term health of your Pugs is to feed them the best food and treats you can afford, raw if possible. Luckily, we haven't had any major expenses with our babies. My favorite inanimate object I own is my boat. I'd sell it in a heartbeat if necessary for the good of my furkids! There is a local fund raiser for folks that can't afford their Pug medical expenses. See my thread in Pug Events for "Pugs For Pinky"

[tall grass pugs]

A recent vet call cost a lot. Really a lot. I have used the same vet for years, and his office takes post dated checks.