Pets can bring a lot of joy and comfort to your family. Unfortunately, just like humans, animals can get sick, accidents can occur, and pets need to receive medical assistance. This can result in large veterinary fees. You’re not wondering what will happen if you can’t afford to pay the veterinary bill. In this guide, Bankrate explores the options you have if you are struggling to pay for your pet care.
What if I can’t afford a veterinary bill?
According to the American Humane Society’s Harris poll, roughly 20 million livestock in the United States live in poverty with owners. 70% of poor dogs and cats have never seen a veterinarian. You may find yourself among 43% of pet owners who can’t afford the pet needs, even if you’re far from the poverty line.
The good news is that there are options that can help you offer fur babes. If you can’t afford a veterinary bill, here are some important steps.
1. Evaluate the situation
Does your pet have a broken leg or just need to be careful? Some situations are life-threatening and require urgent care, while others can wait. Many pets exhibit abnormal symptoms that worry their owners. Calling your veterinarian will help you know which symptoms require emergency care and which symptoms require monitoring.
Symptoms that indicate emergency situations
- Bleeding from any orifice
- Urine or stool blood
- Broken hands and feet
- collapse or unbearable
- The difficulty of breathing and choking
- Cannot urinate or defecate 24 hours a day
- Clear signs of pain, such as vocalization and uncharacteristic aggression
- Severe blood loss due to injury
- Severe vomiting or diarrhea
If your pet is experiencing abnormal movements, reduced appetite, lethargy, or pain reduction, monitor these symptoms and talk to your veterinarian if it appears to be exacerbated. Some symptoms may pass over time, while others indicate serious problems. You know your pet best, so if something seems unusual, trust your gut.
If your vet suggests you come for an appointment, don’t hesitate to mention your financial situation. Some offer flexible options and alternative programs for support.
2. Explore payment plans and funding options
Discussing financial limitations with your veterinarian may be directed towards the following options:
- Emergency Credit Card: Explore some of the best credit cards for emergencies. Carecredit is a great option to cover veterinary bills. Provides deferred funding at low interest rates for up to 24 months and up to 60 months.
- Personal loan: If you have a good credit score and a stable income, it is possible to secure a personal loan on the same day you apply.
- Veterinary payment plan: Some clinics offer installment plans that allow you to pay bills for months.
3. Rely on low-cost veterinary clinics and financial aid
If your private veterinary clinic is not a viable option, the following organizations can help your pet with an emergency, illness, or wellness care:
- Animal shelters and rescue organizations: Many offer low-cost or free services or discounted days for vaccination and sterilization.
- Local veterinary school or university of education: Some veterinary universities offer emergency programs or clinics at discounted rates to train veterinary students. Ask if you would like to offer these services before an emergency situation will surprise you.
- Nonprofits and grant programs: Organizations such as Redrover, The Pet Fund and Banfield Foundation provide financial assistance, resources and support to pet owners facing financial difficulties. They are eligible for assistance, and some organizations must support only certain categories of care.
4. Set up a fundraising page
Peer-to-peer funding or crowdfunding is a way of raising funds for a specific purpose. Telling stories and sharing links to crowdfunding platform profiles allows people in social circles to donate small or large amounts of pet treatment. You may feel like a sheep that lets your friends and community know you’re in a tight place, but you may be blown away by their support.
Here are some common options:
- Don’t worry: There is a payment tier, but Donelyally’s “core” tier is perfect for individuals who need funds. There are no fixed fees, only 4% fees per donation.
- Freefender: There are no platform fees. Freefenders rely on donor tips. All funds raised will be sent to your campaign.
- gofundme (Pet fundraising activity category): GoFundMe does not charge platform fees, but there is a payment processing fee of 2.9% and $0.30 for each donation.
- Waguru: The service charges zero platform fees with typical payment processing fees. Funds will go directly to your selected veterinary clinic.
5. Try home remedies and temporary care
Family remedies are only suitable for small problems. In serious circumstances, always seek medical assistance for your pet. However, in some circumstances, you can take care of your pet at home and save unnecessary veterinary bills.
- Basic Home Emergency: Cleaning scratches and clothing, monitoring symptoms, and keeping your pet comfortable is all possible from the comfort of your home. Investing in basic first aid kits for cats and dogs can help you treat minor injuries, allergies, or slightly upset stomachs.
- Telehealth: Hotlines or online services can provide pet health advice, but may be charged. myfurries’ask a bet lets you ask questions and wait for a free, written response.
6. Sign up for pet insurance
Pet insurance is often a valuable cost compared to veterinary bills equal after simple treatment. According to a 2023 report by the Association of Pet Health Insurance in North America (Nafia), the national average of pet insurance is:
- Dog Accidents and Illness Insurance: $56.30 per month
- Dog Accidents Only Insurance: $17.01 a month
- Cat Accidents and Illness Insurance: $31.94 per month
- Accident Only Insurance for Cats: $9.68 per month
Explore quotes from the best cheap insurance companies to find one that fits your tight budget. A small amount of personal sacrifice can reduce the stress of a large veterinary bill. With financial support for emergencies, surgeries and treatments, pet insurance is worth the cost for many.
7. Preventive care to avoid future costs
Active care after major veterinary bills may not rule out costs on hand, but it will help reduce future costs. The following simple steps will help you avoid future veterinary bills.
- Brush your dog’s teeth to prevent periodontal disease and cavities. Not only is extraction and dental procedures expensive, but these problems can also lead to kidney disease.
- Give them a healthy diet. If you are struggling to feed your pets, the Local Kindness and Local Association for the Prevention of Animal Cruelty (SPCA) offers a pet meal pantry.
- Let your pet sterilize. Castration and castration of pets prevent reproductive organ cancer, reduce the urge to wander and reduce the risk of car accidents.
- Following vaccination, flea/mites control, and insect pests. These treatments can prevent the development of serious health issues. Search for “Dog Vaccine Events Near Me” to find a clinic in your local area hosting the vaccine event.
- Check your pet’s exercise to prevent obesity, arthritis and behavioral problems. Walking your dog regularly or purchasing interactive toys for your cat can have a major impact on your overall health.
- Save money for regular checkups. Your vet can capture the problem before they get expensive emergency or sick.
- Sign up for pet insurance when your pet is still young. Early registration ensures that your pet is covered with premiums before any health issues arise.
Next Steps
No one has to choose to save a pet’s life and finances. Support from local resources, fundraising or bank support can help avoid financial stress during a pet emergency. Do your research early, follow preventive care measures to keep your pet in optimal health and plan for unexpected reasons.
