The Price of Pet Care
May 23, 2008 by Kathy McManus
How much is that doggy in the window?
The one with the waggley tail may seem like a bargain these days compared to the dog with the $3,000 pacemaker. Or the cat with the $8,000 kidney transplant. Or the pet chicken undergoing radiation therapy after cancer surgery.
Medical care for pets now rivals medical care for humans, with veterinary oncologists, neurologists, cardiologists and other specialists providing high tech, big-bucks treatment for Fido and Fluffy.
But when cats have chemo and dogs have dialysis, their owners have something too: unexpected ethical issues triggered by enormous medical bills. “Is the 15-year-old tabby worth $12,000 in dialysis?” asks a newspaper story with the nagging headline: Do some pet owners go a little too far?
“I admit sometimes questioning the reality of spending $11,000 on my cat when there are greater human needs,” said a California college professor, who readily paid for feline chemotherapy and pancreatitis treatment.
U.S. pet owners will spend more than $24 billion this year on pet medical care, an amount greater than the gross domestic product of more than half of the world’s countries.
But when man’s best friend is a integral member of the family, the question of whether it’s appropriate to spend top-dollar for animal medical care is often more emotional than financial. With the unconditional love, friendship, and support of a beloved companion at stake, many pet owners feel they don’t have the option of not providing—and paying for—expensive medical care.
It’s not a simple issue, said one veterinarian. When you hear of a medical bill of $14,000 for a dog, he explained, people ask, “Should you not just buy a new dog and give the money to charity? That, I have to say, is a non-starter of an argument. You then have to ask all sorts of questions about how people spend their money—should they spend it on big cars?”
Tell us what you think: When it comes to expensive veterinary medical care, is it more responsible to pay for a pet or perhaps give the money to charity instead?
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2051 Comments
What do you think? Leave a comment
May 28, 2008 by Libby Liebig
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February 24, 2009 by Free James
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April 28, 2010 by megan
that is so sad wish i could help
May 25, 2010 by amy
my oh my is he or she ok?!
June 3, 2010 by lauren e barber
pets can get sick when they eat something, stamace ack.
July 1, 2010 by faith jackson
i think u guy's should railly give a big thank's 2 people who do take care of cat's and i think you guy's should have a cat commercial saying how you take good care of cats in need i hope you do it if you do i give u a big thank's... i give you a promos that me and my friend's will HALP an i wil tall there parent's
THANKE's=]
July 16, 2010 by mary bailey
I agree with the horse owner, because I have a dog that is my baby and we have had a lot of medical expenses with him also he is 11 yrs. old and I do not regreat anything.
July 25, 2010 by Mary Ellen Lazzara
I totally agree with you, I just spent 3000.00 on my dog for a hospital emergency and he needs life long care that will cost 200.00 a month. I don't know where I am going to get this money, or pay back my credit card but when you love an animal that much all you do is hope, you don't worry about money at that time, all you worry about is that your pet is ok. The love of a pet is a strong emotion that some people will never understand.
August 1, 2010 by erhart sopp
what price for love-- always help your family-- what would they do for you, please help them you will not regret it. Ed
August 3, 2010 by emma
that is relly sad :(:(:0:0
August 4, 2010 by teeteeeee
hey i wish i could help tooooooo
August 8, 2010 by hayley
awwwwwwwwwwwwwww i would do anything to help that dog
August 13, 2010 by kendrick
oh my god so sad
August 23, 2010 by gerilyn carpenter
Why cant people help
August 28, 2010 by alyssa
yeah thats true.....i thank i need a dog thats the one for me i love dog i got one name buddy he is a colly-love that dog so much i will never let it go in my life.i need him more then he needs me.he is my dream dog i will always have. he is so cute. he likes to lick people.he is the color whith,black,brown. the best dog i ever had.so my dog is better then yours.
September 10, 2010 by Rachael
I hope he survives!!!!
April 29, 2011 by dan adams
there is no greater feeling than the unconditional love an animal gives to us humans, to not recipricate in entirety , when the animal is sick , diminishes our humanity. the real crime is the vet's who prey upon our love of the animal for profit. God bless all animal lovers ( like myself) with animals who are suffering and need us most.Peace be with u
May 1, 2009 by Deb Basha
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April 21, 2010 by david shaw
I dont care what the other people think. I believe that if an animal has a chance they should have it. Ihave brought numerus lives back from the brink of death. 23 in all. whwn every one else would have them euthenized. Ipersonally am against euthenazia.
June 15, 2010 by brittany
hello how r u do u know anybody abuse pets its not nice or not cool at all. thanks, brittany
July 22, 2010 by lulu
okkk baby trutle is ugly i hate them
August 8, 2010 by mimi
I understand what u are going through. last week my mastiff was sick. He had bloody diarreah and was vomiting nonstop. I took him to the emergency vet and after $2,000 the vet still doesn't know whats wrong with wrighley. He wants to do surgery but I can not afford to do it cause we are tight on money. He is everything to me since I haven't been able to have children my dog means the world to us. If I had the money to pay for his surgery I would do it because he fills my life with joy and gets me up when I get deppress when I think about me not being able to have children.
August 30, 2010 by pmaryf
Blessings upon you.
September 12, 2010 by anne
I spend a lot of my money on my dogs. I had one die two weeks ago and he was only two years old...a rescue from the shelter....if love could have saved him he never would had died....people laugh and make fun of me and the money i spend on my dogs...it's my money and my business...my dogs are my family and when one of the dies it breaks your heart...they love u unconditionally....more than i can say for most humans
September 14, 2010 by mickey
wow ya know it is ridiculous how much people ask for too keep a living being. i think it is preposterous and very unprofessional. i mean yeah the dogs ARE worth the length to go for your baby but they should at least work with us and learn the importance of their job, to help us and our animals/pets! good luck and take care.
February 17, 2011 by Nancy
I agree with do everything I can possible do for my pet. When I was told that my Scotty had cancer, my vet recommended a specialists. I went for a consolidation and was told that he could operate that day and I said ok. Then a internal medicine specialist talk to me and said that there was a new kemo vaccine that had very good results with very few if any side affects and it was $500.00 a shot every two weeks for six months and then I could go from there. I agreed to have the kemo and McDuff did fine up to the 8th treatment and then the cancer grew back. I took him back to the specialist and he said that there was a new drug in the form of a pill that I could try. I agreed but when it became apparent that it wasn'ts working and McDuff turned for the worse, I made the hardest decision to put him down. He just looked up at me as if to say "Make the pain go away. So I put him down September 1, 2010 and I still cry when I think of him.
I am not sorry for doing what I did because I now in my heart I did all I could for him.
December 22, 2009 by Judy Q.
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May 22, 2010 by Rebecca Buttelo
I think people need to undersand that our pets give us unconditional love and acceptance, which is a lot more than we get from people around us. These animals that we take are our responsibility to give them a wonderful,healty, and safe environment to live in. As far as I am concerned; they are very much like children, and do in fact become a member of our families. I think that money can definitely become an issue when faced with a emergent situation, requiring more revenue than we have, but what if it were one of your children? Would you do anything and everythng in your power to save one of them? They have no voice to beg us for a chance, and I think they deserve every opportunity available to give them what they need. They didn't ask to be born and it is our choice to take them in, which then becomes our responsibility to care for them as needed if at all possible.
May 22, 2010 by Debra Walton
I AGREE WITH YOU WHOLE HEARTEDLY!!!!!!!!!
September 14, 2010 by Teresa
Yes, people, we do love our animals. Where else could we ever find the unconditional love and acceptance that we get from our beloved animals? They are worth more than all the money in the world. Hard hearted people don't understand and I'm sick and tired of having to justify my love for my animals from those types of people! It's OUR money and we can do what we like with it!
December 20, 2010 by kierra
I wish i could help,i hope he lives.
February 13, 2011 by Bob
boo-hoo to you! Do what you want with your money, but don't complain about it you stupid idiot. You stupid animal lovers who believe that animals and humans are equal; the next misquito that you kill means that you should be prosecuted and recieve the death penalty. I am glad that you have a sick pet that you are stupid enough to pay for medical treatment. I hope that you go bank-rupt.
January 25, 2012 by emma
my dog lucy myt be sick. we might have to take her to the vet.
March 3, 2010 by billy dillard
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June 5, 2010 by Linda
Our task must be to free ourselves from the prison by widening our circle of compassion to embrace all living creatures and the whole of nature in its beauty... Albert Einstein
Of course its worth it. There are personal decisions involved just like there are when people go through chemo or traumatic medical procedures.
April 21, 2010 by david shaw
I think and that is very selfish and greedy
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May 22, 2010 by tinsley
that is not right .
August 2, 2010 by brooke
no I do not understand can you tell me please.
August 6, 2010 by david luce
your sir are an idiot, sorry but i would gladly kill for my dog, just as he would kill for me, family is family. maybe your not an animal person but sorry i get to choose how to spend my earned money the way i want to, and in my mind the world is way to overpopulated with people anyways.
August 21, 2010 by Chellie
You think it's selfish and greedy for people to spend their own money the way they want to? Do you want money police telling YOU how to spend yours? Like the good doctor said in the article, where do you begin to tell people what they can and cannot buy?
September 2, 2010 by Robert Young
So sorry you feel that way, thank God there are other people who care!
April 26, 2010 by mark laskowski
I did not have $10,000 to spend but i did spend $300 to have my wifes cat's eye removed and his skull fixed ,$250 to have my dog's leg cut off ,it was either that or put him down ,same thing for the cat .Dont ever let someone tell you that animals arnt worth the cost,I beleive it depends on the severity of the injury and how much you love your animal and if you can afford it or not.I would have borrowed the money if i did not have it.People want to say that animals dont have a soul, have you ever noticed the diffrent personalities each dog or each hourse has?Personality means emotion and thought ,those two mean soul,An animal loves it's young enough to defend it from predetors,they show love back to us also,sometimes i can see more emotion in my dog's eyes than i do people,.Dont ever dout if you did the right thing or not ,you know you did.leave it.
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April 30, 2010 by Ann
I agree, the more people I meet, the more I love my dogs.
May 5, 2010 by linda
by Ann 4-30-10. "Amen"
May 7, 2010 by M. Hall
Mark L -- I agree with you wholeheartedly --- I have a pet tom cat, Footz, so named for his LONG white toes on his rascally tabby bod---- That dear feline soul has shown me More LOVE, adoration and attention, having been in my life for 8 years, than my brother has @ 68 years of age--- YES, animals have souls and emotion~!! Don't any one doubt it --
June 6, 2010 by dianna
i know why i love my pets after talking to people and they are worth everything that the cost and i don't think twice. because they have more love than any person i have met and are more loyal,too.that is a fact.
June 18, 2010 by kiana
thats sad you better help that dog and send it to an animal shelter
July 24, 2010 by sue
yes animals can understand & give back alot more than sometimes you give them. we just lost our cocker that we took in about 10 years ago & he was probably abou 5 when his previous owner moved off left him & he was so well trained it was unbelievable they'd leave him. so since no one in the neighborhood seemed to want to take care of him & after a few times him coming inside like he owned the place:) we kept him. took him to vet & had a good check up got & done everything we could for him long as we had him. it's so hard to write this. but we last him june 9 while we all was on vacation, couldn't get him to vet in time. but at least he was with us. i sure miss the love he gave me & those big brown eyes could tell you what ever you wanted to know & he didn't do without anything. tghe vet said think he had a heart attack but he was fine that morning, so loving we was going to take him out for his walk then take him with us riding around. we had noticed at times he seem to have slowed down but at his age that was normal. can tell you he run the house got what ever he wanted food, grooming & loving even laid on bed at night. how anyone could have turned this dog away i don't know, he didn't have a bad bone in his body & so kind to anyone or animal. never any trouble & made every step outside with my husband. i still cry. so these people say they are just a dog don't know what they are talking about. animals has feelings also & like you say can see more compasion & love in their eyes than some people. so don't ever take your pet for granite like you wouldn't take your kids for granite, so they are part of the family that you will do what ever you can to help them well or sick. thanks for listening
September 8, 2010 by marilue
I need help, our cat just got hit, it was taken to a clinic in TO.Ca, they wanted $1170, followed by additional fees in the Am, followed by a consult by an oral surgeon. I am flat broke, sick and out of work.Any ideas where I can take him, his jaw is broken, Desperate Owner
May 7, 2010 by leslie
i was wondering how to care for a minature when it has a fever and cant get up we gave her some mineral oil and she still wont get up what can i do to make her more comfortable
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June 7, 2010 by michelle
i can help you with your dogs
June 30, 2010 by angie
Our dogs are treated as well as our kids. I was once told by the animal control officer that when they do an animal rescue they usually have to call cps right behind them. Of course if our animal was sick and we could afford the cost we would do it...If not we would either try to raise the money or humanely put them to sleep....If you don't wish to be bothered by kids or pets don't have them...Let someone who wants them adopt them!
July 16, 2010 by Debbi Lee
Take the poor thing to the vet immediately before you end up costing her her life.
August 10, 2010 by kellyann
when u find out let me knw mine seem to be the same way please
May 9, 2010 by Christine Waltman
It's my money and I'll spend it on whatever I damn well feel like. I love my animals more than I like most people. I call it money well spent when I can ease the suffering of a helpless creature.
Want to save money when it comes to pets? Attention owners of cute little mini dogs and purebred puppies. What about all the wasted money you spend buying expensive pedigreed pups. You are the ONLY reason puppy mills and pet exploitation exists. You are also the reason that so many millions of poor animals have to be put down each year. That costs money too and so does housing these unwanted pets due to irresponsible pet owners who don't spay/neuter their animals and those who just have to have a yorkie, poodle, or maltese instead of a perfectly wonderful mixed breed from the fate of the pound.
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May 17, 2010 by Mae
"Attention owners of cute little mini dogs and purebred puppies. What about all the wasted money you spend buying expensive pedigreed pups. You are the ONLY reason puppy mills and pet exploitation exists. You are also the reason that so many millions of poor animals have to be put down each year. That costs money too and so does housing these unwanted pets due to irresponsible pet owners who don't spay/neuter their animals and those who just have to have a yorkie, poodle, or maltese instead of a perfectly wonderful mixed breed from the fate of the pound."
Excuse me? My cute little mini-dog did not come from a puppy mill. He is not exploited but is actually rather pampered and spoiled. He's certainly not unwanted. He also brings a lot of joy to my neighbors in our senior community as he is friendly and others like to pet and play with him. Nor am I an irresponsible pet owner. I simply saw an adorable, smart, beautiful little pup that stole my heart away. I don't consider my money wasted at all.
As you said, "It's my money and I'll spend it on whatever I damn well feel like."
June 28, 2010 by Ellen
Exactly - as many on here so far have expressed. I will spend my money the way I see fit and every dog I have had has been closer to me than most people I know. I won;t go into the multitude of benefits to us that they are. Those that understand it have no need for me to do that. Those who don't would not agree no matter what I said! My dog means the world to me and always will, just as those who have passed over the rainbow bridge meant the same when they were with me! She is not my whole life but she does make my life whole......what more is there to say?
July 5, 2010 by April
My husband and I have a dog that we adopted she is the product of a puppy mill she has glaucoma, a heart murmur and severe allergies. We also have a cat who we rescued from a neglectful home when he was a kitten. There is nothing that we would not do for our babies. A puppy mill dog has so many issues from the emotional trauma and physical abuse that she spent while being forced breed. We have put a lot of money into her and we would jump through hoops for her. She has already lost one eye and will lose the other and we will never give up on her. She is our baby. I do know that we jumped through hoops for our 2 boys and they are grown and now we focus on our two babies. Some would say and have already there is no way I would rescue a dog just to have to put money into it and keep diapers on her while she is in the house. We have been asked why don't you just put her down. I say look she has a will to live, she is still very much active and it is due to the greed of humans that she is the way she is.
September 17, 2010 by Kim
I have worked in the veterinary industry for years. And I want to try to explain the costs. I've heard countless people tell me "if you loved the pets, you'd do this for free." Well let me start by saying that 99.9% of the people that work in veterinary clinics and shelters do, indeed, love the animals. This line of work is not one in which you make scads of money. You can become a Registered Veterinary Technician and expect to make $15-$20 per hour depending on what part of the country you live in. Not to mention the overhead. Any ideas of how much it costs to gain the equipment to make the diagnosis needed for these pets? And the rent, and lights, and water and food and treatment for the animals that are dumped on an almost daily basis on a veterinary clinics doorstep? Oh yeah - and then there's the employees. We like to be able to pay our bills and feed our families too. And a business doesnt stay in business for long if they can't turn a profit. What happens when all the vet clinics close down because they can't be profitable - and it happens all the time! We do this job because it's what we are passionate about it and we love your little furry babies just as much as you do. God bless each and every one of you that do your best to take care of your pets. They deserve it more than most people I know!
May 16, 2010 by Patricia Schaefer
Thank God for people like you. Yes, it is a responsibility and you gave of your love and money to help a helpless creature. And its also responsible people like you who also give to charity to help their fellow man. You have love in your soul, mind and very being.
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July 18, 2010 by judy
We have children we love them. Hug,kiss them. They did not asked to be born, we made that choice. We do, give, teach them, Protect them,take care of our children when they get sick. Even when they grow up, out on there own. They are still our babies!!! Well puppies, kittens are the same and any other animal. They didnt ask us to adopt them. Pets are like children, they need all the same things. Love!!!! the main one!!!! Judy.
August 6, 2010 by julanna
awwwwwwwwwww I feel really bad for that dog. i mean it is just a dog it doesn't deserve this i mean its a dog. stupid disgusting ugly person that drove the car!!!!!!!!!!!!!! if it was a car.
October 29, 2010 by kim
i agree with the cost for vets. but i had a dog i took to the vet her jaw swollen up they said it was a infected tooth so a set the appointment up to have her tooth pulled they also did blood work the test results come back all ok even red and white blood cell test at 7:15 i dropped her off at 10am they called and said she needed put down that she had a tumor on her jaw but no bilospy was taken so how did they know she had a tumor i think the vet should have been resp. for a wrong call
May 22, 2010 by Jeanette
I find this article offensive. Why? Because we live in a country where some people are spoiled rotten-- spending $90,000 on a freakin' CAR, millions on a HOUSE, hundreds on a MEAL.How about the $1000 shoes and $30,000 dress? We indulge ourselves and spoil ourselves because we're "worth it." And this guy comes along and criticizes people who take their own money and use it to alleviate the suffering of God's creatures? I saw a TV show just last night about whores who sell their bodies for $10,000 a night, and $40,000 a week. They call themselves high class. The men who pay for them undoubtedly think they're high class. Why can't all the money that goes for these mere THINGS be used to alleviate the suffering of others instead? Why isn't the writer asking that question? He probably, like most Americans, finds it easy to eat dead animal meat three meals a day. Does he think of how those animals lived and died? For him. So his taco wouldn't be boring. Shame, is all I can say.
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May 23, 2010 by kiarra
what kind of dog is he? he is really cute i fill really sorry!
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May 27, 2010 by ling raphael
i will pay for my pets midical bill
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May 30, 2010 by destiny
this dog is cuter than i thoght
June 12, 2010 by Brian
we fully understand our Doberman had Wobblers Syndrome after $3,000.00 in testing and a estimate of 8 to 12 thousand for sugery and after care we went the holistic route and did accupuncture and chiropratic and am happy to say he is doing very well he was paralized from the neck down in 2008 and the treatment listed above has him up and running and playing attached is a link to 2 videos on youtube that i hope will help someone else http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=b8U-4Q8M-fg
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August 2, 2010 by sharon
My first Doberman also had Wobblers. Two cervical laminectomies, tests, etc.. to tune of approximately $20,000 he died after spending more than two months in the vet's hospital paralyzed from the neck down. In retrospect, I can be accused of animal abuse for the unintentional hell I put him through. Think carefully about your pet's best interest before you satisfy your own needs and resort to heroic measures in your pet's "best interests". I am happy your Dobe is doing well.
July 18, 2010 by Sue Stevens
I also agree. I don't think it's anyone else's business what you do with your own money. If I had it at the right time, if my animals needed it, you bet I'd spend it on them. They're better company then alot of people!! Sorry, but that's how I feel.
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May 30, 2011 by Mary Lou Ocheltree
I agree with you for my companion service dog is needing surgery for a tumor. I do not make much for I am only getting social security and have rent to pay etc. His surgery will cost up to 350.00 and do not have the money and there is a place will pay up to 150.00. Now have found another tumor and pray nothing happens to him. Sometime this week he will be getting the surgery. Can relate to people who has a pet and they are family members. Pray the vet will let me make payments for 350.00 is only for one surgery. He is part greyhound/lab/and dalmation.
Please keep him and I in prayers for he is eleven this September.
July 25, 2010 by Joyce M.Wooten
-It's gotten to be quite a racket.I know of a woman who's daughter worked at a zoo.She repeatedly took her dog with her,and it contracted a worm under it's skin that is found in elephant dung.- The vet told her that it was skin cancer,..and misled well over $9,000.00 out of her for 'treatments.' Greedy,unethical scumbags.
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August 2, 2010 by sharon
Right On! I have more respect for a real estate agent than I do for a veterinarian and that isn't saying much. Scum bags nearly one and all. Decades ago, I had great respect for the veterinary profession. I have no respect for the vet robber barons of today. By the way, when was the last time you met a vet that did any pro bono work, even once a year.
August 6, 2010 by Chriista
To some people, like myself, our pets are more than just animals they are our children and a HUGE part of our lives. I would do just about anything for my 4 legged childrren except prolong their suffering. I would do anything I can to give them every chance to live a happy life. I have chosen not to have 2 legged children so what ever my fur babies need they get. People must realize there is no such thing as a "FREE" pet and when someone CHOOSES to own an animal they have the responsability to everything they can to keep them healthy and protected
August 18, 2010 by Colleen
Sorry but not all Vets are what you say. I have been Blessed to have had 3 differant ones in 3 differant states who I would trust my life in their hands. They have cared for my animals and have done a lot of probono work for me as well as many others who just couldn't afford to have their animals taken care of. Yes I have been run thru the cleaners by some. But you show me a profession of any kind that doesn't have the money grubbers in it. Shame on you to classify all in the same catagory. I have a sick cat right now that our vet told us don't worry about the money you can pay me when you have it or we can barter to work it off. Its more important that we get her back on her feet. There are vets out there who truely love animals. They do have expenses too you know and they have families that need the same things that we do.
July 27, 2010 by Robert
Good for you, your animal will last longer than the week, two week vacation or so would have lasted.
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July 29, 2010 by della
I just had to put my cat of 15 years to sleep today July 30th. the people that took care of her were great. And yes it did cost alot, but she was my buddy.320.00 but i we have to take care of our buddys, This is for you my buddy Nike.
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July 31, 2010 by Billydon Church
I am 81 years old. I have a beautiful, caring wife. I had an ugly, yet adorable Boston terrier who thought I had "hung the moon". He contracted an incurable pneumonia and while he was strangling and wheezing for air, I had to have him euthaniized. I didn't care whether I lived or died for eight weeks. He had other health problems, including diabetes, and we had to spend between $200 and $300 per month the last few months he was alive. Had it been twice that amount, we would have gladly spent it to give him an equal amount of love. He deserved it. And so did we.
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August 1, 2010 by sassy
oh i would get it but cost to much prolly well he or she gets better
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August 6, 2010 by jane
i wish the best to and god bless you in many way and heal all problems you have. Also i would love to help but i can not so god bless you in as many way he can.So good luck and hope you get blessed many ways.Dont let anything stop you just keep going and every thing will be alright.God bless!
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August 7, 2010 by Bonnie Robertson
I'm sorry that your horse was so ill. I know what it means to have an pet and lose him/her. Three years ago my husband and I lost our precious Springer Spaniel to a broken back. We kept hoping he would heal, but when he didn't and became paralyzed we had to do what was best for him and euthanize him. We were there with him when the doctor gave him the injection and we stayed with him for a long time after because he had been such a part of our lives, we didn't know how to leave the vet's office without him.
We still have his ashes and until we know where to spread them we will keep them close by,
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August 9, 2010 by NCjo
Good for you!! Not even a question about it. We have readily and willingly spent more than that on "babies' no longer with us and would do so again to care for our current pets. (We have two Springer Spaniels.) Our dogs are a priority. We have no children and we don't spend irresponsible amounts of money but when you acquire a pet it becomes a member of the family and as such is deserving of the same care you would expect to give a family member. Plus, the love and devotion our dogs give us more than repays the bills!! I would never consider some of these suggestions, matter of fact, I can't even repeat them!! What garbage-save it for a charity???!! Why don't we all stop taking expensive vacations, splurging on expensive cars or even our appearance. Why?? Because when it comes to our hard earned money it is nobody's damn business what I spend it on. It is especially galling to question what I spend on my beloved pets. I spend a fortune in taxes to keep deadbeats and illegal immigrants afloat these days. I think I can decide where what is left of my money goes. And yes they are little beings in fur coats to us. They have a soul and it shines within them. If you have ever loved an animal you know this. Just get your own priorities straight.
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August 10, 2010 by kelly corbin
i can relate ure pet is a family member if not more be happy u had it me on the other hand my chuwawa is sick out of nowhere i just payed rent etc. an now my kids baby dnt feel well an they look to me to fix him not knowing the cost i dont have a dollar til my next pay to even walk in the vet door an no doctor care im clueless in what to do cause my family an people i thought were my friends feel like im crazy for crying for our baby being sick i just had no ideal how no one would take my word that i would come back an pay them on my payday its just horrible an i dont think my baby is going to make it til monday do u knw anyone who can help me or pay with their creditcard to the animal hospital in my area or vet an we can make arrangements 4 me to payback i dont know im at the end of my wits i dont knw what to do i love our baby so much he follow the kids all over the house please help a person who can relate to you pets have more feelings then we do
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August 20, 2010 by Renate
Why not take your sick animal to the SPCA? They help as much as they can, for a much reduced fee. If we were in trouble, our vet would also help out - but try the SPCA animal hospital. They are your best bet, if you need it to be reasonably priced. Good luck to your baby! R.
August 18, 2010 by kathy shoemake
I BELEIVE I BELEIVE THAT EVERY BREATHING THING ON EARTH NEEDS A CHANCE WITH LIFE ANIMAL OR HUMAN BUT NOT TO SUFFER AFTER TRYING ITS WORTH ALOT MORE TO KNOW IN YOURE HEART TO
THAT YOU TRIED
I BELEIVE THAT ALL BREATHING THINGS ON EARTH NEED A CHANCE TO LIFE IT BEING A DOG A CAT A HORSE ANDSO ON ITS
ITS A TUFF DECESION BUT IF YOU LOVE YOUR PET THAT MUCH ITS WORHT ALL THE MONEY IN THE WORLD TO TRY TO KEEP PART OF YOUR FAMILEY STILL WITH YOU BUT DONT LET THEM SUFFER
I
I
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August 20, 2010 by Elsie
I totally agree. How, a pet owner spends their money, on their pet's health, is their business. My husband and I spent almost $4,000.00 trying to save our 12 years old lab mix from kidney problems. But, after almost two months, her poor weak body just gave up and we had to make the heartbreaking decision to let her go. A pet is part of a person's family, we love them as much as we love our family members.
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August 20, 2010 by ally
i would do anything to help that dog.
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September 2, 2010 by Robert Young
I have been a pack leader of four pack members since 1992. My first pack member a beautiful female husky-colie mix needed surgery to repair a torn ligament in her left hind leg when she was four or five years old. There was no question aboujt it she got what she need and it gave her many more years of being able to run and jump and play with her adopted little brother a german shepard-bassett-chow mix and her adopted litle sister a siberian husky-alaskan malamute mix. Before her surgery I contacted her vet and asked if I could be with her. My vet asked if I could stand the sight of blood, my answer was yes, after viet nam I can stand the sight of anything. I was there with her from the time they put her under, during the surgery and until she woke. Always talking to her and with one hand on her. I would lie down on a table a give any part of me to her or any of my pack to heal any of their wounds. They ask for so little and give so much
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September 9, 2010 by Sue
Your not nuts, He is only 7 years old. I have spent a fortune on my dogs just to keep them in my life." A rightous man cares for the needs of his animals." Provervs 12:10
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September 10, 2010 by Mustang Owner
I spent close to $10,000 on my $25 Mustang gelding when he fractured his cannon bone, broke his splint bone and had his throat ripped open by another horse. He was in hospital for 7 days and his leg healed completely and he does have some damage to his throat area that he now has some difficulty swallowing, but I would do it again in a heartbeat - that horse is as much my child as my children are - and we would not put our kids down and get a new one.
I have all 3 of my horses insured now so that i only pay a deductible and anything over the 10K mark
Happy Horse Mum
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September 14, 2010 by Rivka
What a person spends on their pets is their business..providing medical care is something that comes with pet ownership. How far a person goes, is up to them and their wallet. I do believe that a person must weigh the quality of life for the animal as well....sometimes the suffering to the animal is not fair either..
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September 20, 2010 by Nora
Oh my gosh that is so sad.You almost put your horse down.I had a horse named Goldey she had a baby it took him a while to stand up. The next day we came to check on him and see how he was doing. But it turned out he died that fast.He had this yellow stuff allover him. And flies were all over him flying around him.So I know how hard it is to let go.
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September 25, 2010 by triadsense1 blog
Don't worry about what some car insurance company thinks. Goodluck.
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September 27, 2010 by martha
I so agree with you. I wish I had the money to spend on my animals that you do. I just put my shitzu down because of lack of funds. she too had cancer. and could not have lived with it much longer, I just ended her horrible suffering. if it had been for any other reason I would have spent it. why not that. had she had a bad leg, wouldit have made a difference, NO! NO! NO! God Bless You Both, I know it can't be easy. we will be praying for you.
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October 9, 2010 by noamericano.
THATS SO SAD<3
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October 16, 2010 by sandra croyle
Don't have much to say ... except.....do you think it would worth it to help you when you're sick? How could you even post a discussion about those of us who think our animals are worth their weight in gold. You better hope someone out there feels the same about you...
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November 13, 2010 by Denise Adair
I agree!! You have a beloved pet it's not just an animal, like most respond, it's a cherished member of ones family. Never had children myself in the 46 years of my life but i had a beautiful baby kitty i just lost two night ago and i'm devastated and hurting so bad and it's all about money. If I had it I would of spent every last dime I had to get her another kidney flush, that prior to her death recently saved her life two years ago and people thought i was crazy to spend over $2,500 to get her the surgery. I had the money at the time i did it but now she was 19 and 4 and a half months years old, I just had to hold her and let her die in my arms and it practically killed me but if i had the money I would of got her a kidney transplant, she meant the world to me and I am just broken over it now!!
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November 13, 2010 by teresa duvall
you are right, i would spend the money also on my pet, they are a family member to!
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December 31, 2010 by DEMI25
your right!!! and is that horse ok
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January 8, 2011 by CAROL
GOOD FOR YOU! YOU DID WHAT YOU FELT IN YOUR HEART WAS THE RIGHT THING TO DO. MORE PEOPLE SHOULD FOLLOW YOUR LEAD. THX,FROM ALL THE LITTLE ANIMALS THAT DO NOT FIND SOMEONE LIKE YOU.
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January 14, 2011 by Sandy Smith
It is our responsibility when we take on an animal to give it the best care we can. While money can be an issue, these are beautiful souls that grace our lives and cannot be taken lightly. I am buried in vet bills due to a sick and dying golden retriever. I do not regret spending the money at all. She is my responsibility and I cannot let her suffer in any way. If the vet bills are too much and it will not change the outcome, then do the responsible thing and end their suffering. Sometimes it's not as hard a choice as we might think, as I recently learned. You will know when it's time and please don't be selfish. Animals need us, we are all here to take care of them.
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March 9, 2011 by Carol
I admire you and agree with you . So many people would not have done this and would have just said the heck with it. We make the decision when we take on these animals to take care of them . And they need us to do that as they can't do it for themselves. That's why these charities need us and need these donations. Rescue places for cats and dogs there are not enough. etc. Hats off to you
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October 23, 2011 by Ping
there is no price for unconditional LOVE -- Kula is our 7-yr old Aussie Cattle Dog and she's still in intensive care right now... When the whole family voted on the 3 choices that the specialist gave us, after looking at Kula we unanimously voted on given her the chance to be operated. One of the biggest concern was she might not be able to survive the anesthesia as she is so sick... well, Kula proved them all wrong! She made it through surgery! We now just hope and pray that Kula will continue fighting and we will be there to give her whatever that could make a difference. Believe me it's easier emotionally to think that we have done what we could for our best friend~~the only way to repay her for her love and loyalty!!!!!!!
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December 20, 2011 by leeleee
this is so sad i feel bad for wish you the best doggy ,love leelee
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May 29, 2008 by Candace Rodriguez
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May 24, 2009 by Percy Meltar
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May 20, 2010 by Jenny Muniamal Naidu
Why would even think about it if money matters at all. Man, I love my animals. I live in the state of Nevada now for the last 14 years, and they've just passed a new law that all animals in a household must be fixed and mandatory. I am so hurt by this because I feel that they are tempering on God's Ground. I have to spay all my dogs........and not only that, you are only allowed 3 dogs. It is not that I want all the dogs in the world, but the ones I have, I never went out there to get them. These are the ones who needed a home. So now I love them like they are my children. I am so afraid of them taking them away from me. They, the animal control folks have been here already last week. So if any one hears me, please help with guidance
May 30, 2008 by Dawn Campbell
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March 31, 2009 by Kathleen Andrews
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April 29, 2010 by moodymoose77
Hi: were you able to get a vet for Serenity? I pray you did and she recovered and I wish I had read this sooner so I could have helped. It is April 24th 2010
May 20, 2010 by jenny
I hope that Serenity is better now. Where are you?. If ever you need an extra kitten/cat., let me know okay! May The Good Lord Bless you and your baby Serenity
June 5, 2010 by lynn
I hope Serenity is doing ok. If you are having to pay for high cost prescriptions for her, ask your vet to write the expensive prescriptions to a Candian Pharmacy. I use Medsmart for my own and my cat's prescriptions. I pay $116.00 for 3 moonths supply of prescription meds from Canada that would cost me $550.00 here is America. Their number is 1 866 353 2230.
July 16, 2010 by Debbi Lee
My heart aches for you.... I have family, if thats what you want to call them. They don't bother with me at all except for my brothers. My love for animals is so great I have 12 dogs. I would be lost without them. If I could help you I would. Pray to your guardian angel to help you. God Bless
August 20, 2010 by Renate
Please, please take Serenity to the next SPCA Center - they will help with low cost medical care for sick pets. It's also worth considering pet insurance. I pay $30 per month for major medical coverage for my beloved GSD, so that I can take care of him. I don't happen to have $14,000 lying about, but then there is insurance - my kid is insured, I'm insured, why should my doggie be different?
August 2, 2009 by Winston Boulier
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April 21, 2010 by david shaw
Isuggest the localgram animal control officie the have a great spay@neutering program and advice on low cost vaccs.i give mycats there vaccs myself.Also fostelowcostr&smith sell low cost pet supplys through the mail.I know i have 17 little. furry companions
August 4, 2009 by Susan Whalen
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August 21, 2009 by yolanda
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May 1, 2010 by Kathy Yarbrough
What kind of bad disease does or did he have ?
May 24, 2010 by carly
i wish i could help to
June 8, 2010 by harriet
Have you looked into pet insurance? It is usually $100.00 deductable, at least in Pa, but it covers all types of medical problems. God bless you and your "baby" and keep you save.
April 6, 2010 by Bonnie Rochon
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August 14, 2010 by rixi
i fell sad for pets that fell sick
May 8, 2010 by carol harvey
I would seriously like to know where you live that has "free" and "lowcost" animal clinics? No such thing here.
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May 30, 2010 by sarah
Where do you live? I would be happy to try and find and give you adresses of low cost vet clinics.
August 1, 2010 by donna
Wow, so this guy thinks its horrible to spend money on animals. Well just think of all the billions spent housing persons who are comatose, demented, chronically ill and will never have quality of life. Where is the justice in keeping a person on a feeding tube, on a ventilator when there is nothing left upstairs. How about all those millions of persons on dialysis who exist just to go 3 times a week to have their blood cleanse, don't work, and are bitter, angry and give nothing back to society. He's right we should put everyone to sleep, the pets, the chronically ill and throw in the felon's while were at it.
August 6, 2010 by Julianna Smith
cry cry cry cry cry poor dog, i mean seriously its just a beuatiful dog open your eyes people!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! cry cry cry cry cry cry cry cry sorry about all the crying. i feel bad!!! real bad about that dog.
August 7, 2010 by marilyn offield
i put it in wrong it was bonnie rohchon:with her cocker spaniel & sarah who replyed sarah i'am the person with dasiy & pyothrax......thx
June 5, 2008 by Angela Lawrence
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May 4, 2009 by rachael anne boggs
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May 1, 2010 by michelle
thank you if u have a dog i hope your dog get better
May 14, 2009 by diane danderson
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May 23, 2010 by mickael vernon
i hope your dog get bettttttttttter !!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
March 6, 2010 by mariah
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March 13, 2010 by sabrina bowell
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June 6, 2008 by Debra Moore
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March 10, 2009 by anonymous
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March 28, 2009 by Alex White
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July 13, 2010 by Bob
I agree with the sentiment that the more people I meet, or the more news I watch, the more I like my dogs better. The world is a sad place and you need to start taking care of those around you and branch out from there. However, I do think there is a point where it's more humane to put an animal down then prolong their suffering because you can't let go. Just my two cents.
Brian Rock http://learningtocolor.com
May 29, 2009 by Erika
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June 15, 2009 by KOCOUREKDD
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June 19, 2009 by Renee coltson
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April 18, 2010 by madison
im sorry
July 29, 2009 by mary krueger
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November 4, 2009 by casey mc manus
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December 30, 2009 by amanda sholts
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April 23, 2010 by riley
por por por dog
May 9, 2010 by danylion
wowo thats so mean to put a dog down id do watever i can
July 2, 2010 by Vicki
putting a any animal is not an easy thing to do, we just had to make that decision in Feb 2010 for our 18 year old baby girl. She was in pain and nothing would of helped her, she lost the use of her back legs, we looked into carts for her, but with her age and having arthritis since she was 12, we knew her front legs wold not be able to withstand pulling her weight. She was a chow/collie mix that I rescued from a dog pound, the day she was suppose to be put to sleep. Would we have paid to help her, we we had the checkbook and was ready to do whatever we could for her, but we did not have that option or she would still be with me today. I have been doing canine rescue now for almost 7 years and our rescue will do whatever we have to give a dog or puppy a chance to live a healthy life, yes I have had to make decision for them also that I really did not like having to do but when you get a dog in with cancer and it has already gone to the brain and the dog is in pain, throwing up can't keep anything down, running into everything, can crying while she was sleeping, you know in your heart what you have to do. i did have her cremated and she is still with me and always will be, she may not have been one of my personal dogs but she had my heart from the beginning. They seem to do that to me, even though they are only here for a short time.
April 30, 2010 by Joann
I know what you mean about your pet being a big part of your family. In March of 2010 my dog was diagnosed with cancer. We did major surgery on his heart to take the sac around it so the fluids will not retain in his stomach. That was risky but well worth the money and suffering through his recovery. The tumor on his heart cannot be removed because of the risk. The cancer has spread to his lungs. He is not in any pain and is doing good on Chemo so far. We are in about 15,000 or more in Vet bills and hospitals not including my travel to the hospital every three weeks which is in Knoxsville TN and we live in the Tri-Cities area. I dread the day I will have to say goodbye to my precious Chocolate lab who would be 10 years old in October. I don't want to ever say goodbye but I would be selfish when it is time because he is in pain. I hate the big C word. He has had a very, very good life with me and my husband and has been to most places that some humans have never been to. I pray for all the owners who are going through a tough time with a beloved pet.
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June 11, 2008 by Kati C.
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June 18, 2008 by Brenda Lynch
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June 20, 2008 by Ellen Fisher
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October 23, 2009 by ATAcosta
February 25, 2009 by janet Hwilka
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March 3, 2009 by Dawn Alsager
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March 7, 2009 by Karen Wilson
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March 14, 2009 by Heather Clough
May 17, 2010 by jackie
i fell bad for dogs and what they have to go in all this pain because people hurt them doint take care of them i just feel bad.
April 25, 2009 by Donna Per_gin
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April 23, 2010 by Anne S.
that is only YOUR opinion.
i know people who treasure their pet chickens as much as any other pet.
June 19, 2009 by renee Coltson
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February 6, 2010 by Fred Suza
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August 27, 2010 by alyssa
that is a bad thing to do to a dog.they r domb as they can be to treat a dog that way u r right
March 9, 2010 by Helen Gasdaglis
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June 23, 2008 by neysa brown
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March 6, 2009 by Aletha
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March 23, 2009 by Elizabeth
March 28, 2009 by A. White
April 6, 2009 by Tamara McCullough
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April 6, 2009 by Tamara McCullough
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May 11, 2009 by Marla McLuckie
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April 18, 2010 by ruby
Well let me tell you about my little Elmo: A shitzu loving and very smart 6 yrs old.He was taken to the vet because he was feeling tired and did not run with his tail up like a fan also bowel movements and voiding was out of order . The amounts and consistancies.I took Elmo to a vet and i was given meds and not either time did this so called Dr take his b/P or listen to his heart. The vet actually only gave me meds for Elmo..After 2 months there was no sign of his getting better.! med this Dr told me was what is given to humans (a sulphur tablet) After no sign of Elmo getting better ,He was taken to a reliable Dr in Appleton Wi at which point Elmo was diagnosed with liver failure ,kidney complications tumors were detected internally and a very bad heart condition.the 1st thing i had noticed was that Elmo was bloated ,but only then i began to think something was wrong ,After that the other things happened and i might add very quickly I took him to a local Vet who did absolutely nothing for him .His appetite had not decreased ..Well anyway It was sad !
May 19, 2009 by Angela
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May 24, 2010 by Linda
Well said. Breeders are the BIGGEST part of our unwanted pet population. Anyone can buy a cute little puppy--what happens after? When they grow? When the kids are too busy? When the kids are born? When the divorce happens? When the job is lost? When the move is inevitable? Pets are for LIFE, people!! Wake up and stop being so ignorant!
January 22, 2010 by D. M. Anderson
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April 8, 2010 by cindy vlajnic
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April 8, 2010 by cindy vlajnic
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June 10, 2010 by Evie
You ruin the name "Responsible Breeder". I hope to breed to better my chosen breed one day... After years of mentorship and finding a female who passes all genetic testing for diseases and is a great example of her breed. Because that's what good breeders do. Oh, and of course I'll have a lengthy adoption contract stating that her precious pups can't be bred unless they become AKC Champs, etc, etc.
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June 23, 2008 by neysa brown
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April 23, 2009 by Shiloh chinn
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September 30, 2010 by Katy
You are so right i SO agree.
May 25, 2009 by Nicholas Struve
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April 19, 2010 by OLGA
ME TOO WELL DIDDENT PUT DOWN HE ATAMATICALLY DIED IN 2004 I WAS SAD WELL BYE!!
March 9, 2010 by katerina meows
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June 25, 2008 by Leigh F
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May 26, 2009 by Christina V.
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June 28, 2008 by amber
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June 29, 2008 by Debbie
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April 17, 2010 by Brad
I use VPI too, but my pets insurance it 62.09/month. You must have a younger pet than me. I don't know, if it's cheaper, for cat insurance that it is, for dog insurance.
You're absolutely correct about people, not knowing about it. I just happened to notice a pamphlet one day in my Vet.'s office, but by that time my pooch Candy was almost 3 years old. Luckily, she had no major health issues at that time, or now for that matter. Knock on wood.
The pet insurance I had gotten back then was Petcare unfortunately. I didn't know about VPI yet. They seem to be the best one, since they don't put lifetime limits on illnesses, or injuries for pets. Petcare had a lifetime coverage of 5 grand/illness. I just didn't trust that to cover her the way, that I wanted her to be.
I sure think they could do a better job, of letting people know about health insurance for pets.
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August 8, 2010 by elsie
well i heard some of those pet insurance don't pay like they say they do, So do they pay for shots, too?
September 13, 2010 by annabella
For all woman who lost everything try everything you can to make money and if you see a pet lost try helping it! we can all save 1 thing at a time
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