Handling Expensive Vet Bills
-
My best friend on this planet is my little long-haired dachshund, Roxie, so I was very upset to find a one-inch-wide growth under her back teat. I took her to the vet and it’s going to cost me $2,000 to remove. I’m elderly and cannot afford this, yet I do not want my Roxie to suffer. I don’t know what to do. Is there a place where I can apply for help?
- Len R.
Len, I am so sorry to hear of your predicament. Because veterinary bills are not subsidized the way human medicine is, it can be very expensive to care for a sick pet. Many people share this problem and sadly, I don’t know of any place that provides funds for major surgery, especially for an elderly dog.
I sense you dread the idea of losing your relationship with your beloved friend. Your greatest gift to Roxie, who has loved you so much, is to make sure she does not suffer as her condition progresses. Keeping your dog’s needs in mind while she goes through this process will help both of you. Ask your vet if there are any places that provide financial help with such surgeries. Also find out everything you can do to keep Roxie as comfortable as possible. Try to keep her days peaceful and pain-free. If her quality of life becomes poor, the vet will provide a peaceful euthanasia.