Q. "Why is veterinary care so expensive?" A. "Veterinary care actually is a bargain. We care for our animal patients medically and surgically at a fraction of the cost
of human medical care. Most good practitioners take costs into consideration, yet strive to deliver high-quality medicine
using the best equipment and diagnostics available." Q. "We took a dog that was pronounced healthy by a respected veterinarian to two other animal clinics, and they said we needed
up to $700 in tests and treatments. That sounds like gouging, doesn't it?" A. (You cannot speculate.) "I'm not familiar with that case, but what I can tell you is that our concern is always for the well-being of animals. We
have to assess and treat each case individually and are proud of the level of good medicine and good common sense we practice
at this hospital." Q. "Yes, but in this scenario, isn't it wrong for one doctor to say that a pet is fine, but two others find 'hidden' problems
and want to charge hundreds of dollars?" A. (It's OK to agree in principle that some things would be wrong, but then tell them what good practitioners do.) "On the surface that does seem wrong, but I can't be pulled into a game of speculation. What I am happy to tell you is that
most veterinarians are kind and caring doctors and we just want what's best for both the pet and the owner... There is a state
board of examiners in place for just that type of complaint. The good news is that it is a rare and unusual case..." Q. "Are blood tests necessary before cleaning my pet's ears?" A. "Each pet is different and if an anesthetic is needed for a procedure, then the normal standard of care dictates that we
make sure a pet has a base level of health to give them the best chance of survival. It is the client's right to decline such
testing, and to seek a second opinion. We have always encouraged clients to get second opinions if they are not completely
comfortable with our recommendations." Q. "How can pet owners save money on veterinary costs?" A. (Now is the time to teach a little.) "Preventive health care is well known to help reduce long-term medical costs in humans and pets. Keeping pets up to date on
vaccinations and preventive medications and following good owner practices can help owners avoid costs associated with emergencies."
Several more sample questions and answers on fees and costs are available on VNN's Web site, http://www.myVNN.com/.
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