Sherry’s Corner

Three Days Sick–Your Money and Your Health

According to one experienced veterinarian quoted in the Bayer Veterinary Care Study, “I’m seeing pets three days sicker.”

WHY? 

      Since we are guilty of waiting a day or more before making an appointment for ourselves, it is no surprise that we wait when our pet may be ill, especially in today’s economy. Our solution–too often–is to check the Internet or to use a non-prescription for days one and two in the hopes that taking this course of action will remedy the situation.

      According to the American Animal Hospital Association, the major reasons for avoiding a clinic visit include not just the economy, but a false reliance on the Internet.  However, a veterinarian must see a pet in order to treat him/her.  This cannot be done over the computer or the phone–even a smart phone. 

CONVINCE ME –“ARE MORE VISITS REALLY NECESSARY ”?   

      YES, if I am convinced it will help my pet live longer, prevent problems and more expensive treatments–resulting in each visit being less expensive.

AND MAKE IT EASY WITH –a monthly payment plan covering a year of routine care and some DISCOUNTS.  GIVE ME–information on financing programs AND ADVERTISE competitive prices for products from flea and tick treatments, to specialty foods, etc. SET UP a website to make scheduling appointments easier and enable access to password-protected medical records and information.   And, include the services the hospital offers–laser therapy, stem cell options, acupuncture, etc.   

      In addition to the recession as one reason for delays in care, the Bayer report cites the dwindling number of visits to the number of specialties today and the higher cost of fees.  Specialty practices usually require a blank check and/or a credit card. But perhaps the most important reason more pets are not visiting their doctors is poor communication.  According to Karen Felsted, CEO of the National Commission on Veterinary Economic issues, veterinarians can do a better job communicating the value of all visits–appointments–so that owners are comfortable with costs.  For example, I pay $20 twice a week to have my dog’s bandages changed and the wound checked for infection.  I think of this as insurance that healing is progressing satisfactorily. It is an investment I am willing to make.  Veterinary appointments help protect the health of my dog–and mine, too.