We are a nation of animal lovers. Indeed, we’d do anything to keep our pets in the pink of health — and our vet bills prove that: We spend a hefty $18 billion per year on our furry, finned and feathered friends’ medical services. But take heart. There are ways to keep your pet and your bank account healthy. In answer to the question, “Can we do right by our pets and our pockets at the same time?” Dr. Andrew Kaplan, founder of City Veterinary Care in New York City, answers a resounding, “Yes, most definitely — if you become educated and follow some simple steps.” Roseann Trezza, executive director of Associated Humane Societies Inc., concurs. The keys, she says, are common sense and preventive care.
Plan ahead Even if you already have a vet, are you aware of his or her policy regarding emergency services, hours and fees? Matty and Michele Luxenberg had a pet-owner’s worst nightmare when their 4-year-old cocker spaniel Jordy became acutely ill on New Year’s Eve “Our voice messages to our now-former vet’s office went unreturned,” says Matty. “We thought we had no choice but to take Jordy to an emergency center, which could’ve cost a fortune.” Instead, the Luxenbergs tried the vet who just opened an office across the street — Dr. Kaplan, who treated the ailing pooch pronto and did not charge a premium “emergency fee.” Did you think emergency fees were unavoidable? They may be common, even standard procedure, but the trick is to ask a vet’s policy before a crisis occurs. Here are some other ways to increase the odds of doing right by your best friend and your finances:
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— Updated: May 4, 2006 |
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— Updated: May 4, 2006 |
As for cats, they unfortunately fall from windows of apartment buildings so often, the phenomenon has a name: high-rise syndrome. Jewelry designer Jon Fjerkendstad found out about this the hard way. While he knew never to open his windows wide enough for his beloved Siamese Mickey to fall through, a thoughtless visitor, warned not to, did just that. “The emergency visit cost about $350,” recalls Fjerkenstad, who immediately afterward rigged his windows to lock in place. The happy news is that Mickey recovered and lived to nearly 20. The bottom line? Your pets are your best buds. To keep them healthy, you don’t have to be wealthy! |
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— Updated: May 4, 2006 |
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