September 4, 2012 - PET SURGERY versus PET INSURANCE

Facebook is always filled with the pros and cons of being a pet owner. They go from one extreme to the next...There are the Michael Vick's in this world, along with the careless, unloving owners who abuse their animals. I occasionally see pets I think look lost or feel helpless. The newspapers are full of pets being set on fire, beaten, or beaten to death. I frankly cannot stand to watch the ARL commercials on television because I would run right out and take them home with me. People can be ignorant about the REAL responsibilities of being a pet owner.

Now let's talk about the other extreme...veterinary bills, food, treats, bathing supplies, haircuts, etc., etc., etc. Miss Scarlett is not what we consider to be an inexpensive pet. She has a nervous tummy so she has to have a special diet purchased only through a veterinary clinic. She has long and luxurious ears that never seem to get enough air to them.That makes her prone for ear infection; of which we are struggling with right now. I made a trip to Ashworth Road Veterinary Animal Hospital, where Jessica had medication ready for me to begin treatment.

In addition, Miss Scarlett is a sophisticated Cocker Spaniel and requires a "special haircut." Her groomer, LuAnn, at PetSmart is the only person we allow to touch a hair on her head. They have a special bond and LuAnn is so, so very good to her. That means leave her a nice tip to show our appreciation. And don't forget the cost of vaccinations, boarding if you are going to be going on vacation and cannot take your pet, dog tags, trainer, and anything else I might have missed.

Here are the 10 most expensive surgeries (ranked by frequency) that cost pet owners more than thousands of dollars in the year 2010...YIKES! You need to ask yourself: "What am I willing to spend on my pet"?

Torn Knee Ligament/Cartilage	$1,578
Intestinal – Foreign Object	$1,967
Stomach – Foreign Object	$1,502
Intervertebral Disc Disease	$3,282
Stomach Torsion/Bloat	$2,509
Broken Leg (Plate)	$1,586
Laryngeal Paralysis	$2,042
Tumor of the Throat	$1,677
Ear Canal Surgery – Ablation	$1,285
Ruptured Bile Duct	$2,245

So now let's talk about pet insurance...how expensive is it and where do I go to find it? I would begin with your insurance representative you use for your car or home--if they carry it, and can write a policy, add it to your "Bundled Insurance"--who knows, they might even give you a discount.