In tough financial times pets are the first to suffer. Some pet owners are barely able to afford their animals, let alone any medical attention. Veterinary care is usually neglected for lack of funds to pay the bill. Pet medication, even though needed, may be a luxury the owner cannot afford. There is help out there to attain the medication your pet needs.
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Your Primary Vet
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If you have a long-standing relationship with your vet, he may be able to help with pet medications. Vets have an ample supply of medications on hand, and some have been given as samples, just like at a regular doctor̵7;s office.
If your pet becomes ill or needs regular doses of medication, speak to your vet and be honest. Veterinarians have chosen their profession because they care about the health and well-being of animals. Ask if there are sample medications she can give you, or at least a discounted price.
The vet may also be willing to work out a payment plan for the pet̵7;s medication if you are having financial difficulties. You may even be able to volunteer your time in exchange for your pet̵7;s medication. Your vet may also know of organizations within your community that help with pet care and medication.
Agency Resources for Pet Meds
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Contact your local humane society or shelter to find out if they can help with pet medication. Ask if they have a fund to help pet owners with medical needs. A lot of them do and pet owners do not realize this service is available.
Rescue groups and dog or cat breed societies help people who have certain breeds of dogs and cats. See if there is a specific breed group near you that you can contact and ask if they have any funding to help with pet medication.
If you purchased your animal from a local breeder or pet shop, read your contract thoroughly to see if there is a clause in it that helps with pet medication up to a certain time period.
Another great option is a veterinary school. The students are supervised by licensed vets so that your pet care is in capable hands. If you have a veterinary school nearby, take your pet to be seen by there. They will assess its medical needs and dispense the medication at a fraction of what a regular veterinary office would charge.
The Humane Society of the United States can also help find groups that will pay for pet medication in a financial crisis (see Resources).
Financing Pet Meds
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Pet insurance can help pay for your pet's vet and medicine needs. It works just like health insurance, so you will have to pay a premium and be able to afford the deductible just like with your own insurance policy, which is not always an option for someone having financial difficulties.
There are also credit card agencies that provide pet owners with a credit card specifically for pet needs. Again, this may not be an option for someone with financial hardship. You will be billed monthly payments and possibly an interest rate, much like a regular credit card.
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