One of the reasons I started Pawbly is because I know full
well that most people will do whatever they can do avoid making an appointment
to bring their pet in to see me. Whether it’s the inconvenience of taking the
time out of their busy day, the stress of taking their pet out of the safety of
the confines of their home, the idea of being told that “some medical condition
might be serious,” the looming diagnostics, impending follow-ups, or the
undeniable fact nothing is cheap anymore, people, in general try to avoid me.
The simple truth is that in
almost all cases if you are concerned about the health of your pet then I am
going to tell you that you should have your pet seen by a veterinarian. The physical exam and the discussion that will follow are essential. I know, not what
you want to hear, and not what you want to do, but there are a few secrets that
your vet has that benefit your pet far more than you might imagine.
I know that if more of you knew about them you would be less likely to be so hesitant
to call us and book that appointment.
Let's start with the companies that make a profit based on your fear and your pets inevitable illness or accident.
Insurance Companies. My honest opinion on them is this; if
you have enough disposable income and want peace of mind then get your pet an
insurance policy. But remember insurance companies are for profit businesses.
They will never be able to pay out more than they bring in. You just have to
hope that you get the benefits that you need when you need them. Human
insurance companies are notorious for denying claims, and all you can do is hope the same is
never the case for you. My advice: if you still think that insurance is right for you then look
into the insurance carriers that cover you for accidents and illness only. Here’s
why. Your pet’s routine costs should be fairly close to fixed, thus making it
easier to allot for them. The unforeseen disasters are the big wallops that
will hit your wallet where it really hurts. If you don’t have the ability to
put a thousand or two dollars down for a life threatening illness at any given time then think about
insurance. (If you want a specific company that I recommend just ask).
There are a few guarantees in life. Very few. If you decide
to take on the responsibility of a living creature at some point that pet will
get sick. It is inevitable. How can you get your pet the care they need and do
it without walloping your wallet? Insurance? Maybe.
But do you know where the best insurance to be found is? At your vets office.
And here’s what should be plastered on every clinics walls: “You
want a guarantee? See your Vet.”
Now there aren't many times in life that you are going to
get a guarantee. And, in the world of medicine guarantees are elusive and binding
and no half-witted doctor wants to give you a binding obligation. I mean,
shoot, we aren't perfect, we don’t have the ability to foretell the future. So,
it would be crazy to say “guarantee” wouldn't it?
But, this is a word I will throw around, and I will
guarantee a few things when it comes to your pet’s care if you are my client.
Let’s start with heartworm disease.
Heartworm disease can be fatal. It is a preventable disease
and there are many options available to protect pets against this disease.
Insurance? Well, if your pet is tested yearly and kept on a veterinary
prescribed preventative purchased through your veterinarian AND if your pet
contracts the disease the manufacturer of the heartworm preventive will cover
your pet’s diagnosis and treatment. For most pets this is about a $2500
insurance policy. For my clients their heartworm preventative also covers for
the intestinal worms it prevents or treats. If your pet’s yearly fecal
examination yields a worm on the heartworm label the manufacturer will pay for
the fecal test and the de-worming.
Vaccines. Your pets vaccines should be individually tailored
based on breed, age, location, and environment. Every vaccine your pet gets is
also guaranteed. If your pet gets the disease your veterinarian vaccinated for
then the manufacturer will pay to test them AND to treat them. This includes
kennel cough and Lyme disease. Which, unfortunately, dogs seem to get even with
monthly flea and tick prevention and yearly vaccines. How many times have I
called the manufacturer of these vaccines to stand by their guarantee? A lot,
almost weekly.
Preventatives, medications, shampoos, food,,,the list goes on. If you buy any product from my clinic and you are unhappy with it we will refund your money or the manufacturer will replace the product. The foods we sell are guaranteed, the flea medications, the shampoo's, all of it. Why? because veterinarians rely on those manufacturers standing by their products. They help us take care of you.
Now, here is where I am going to stick my foot in my mouth. Veterinarians
are some of the hardest working, most generous, compassionate, and selfless
people around. Most of us own our own practice or work for someone who has
spent decades building theirs. We live and work in our small community and word
of mouth will kill you. We are, like many other small businesses in your
community, there for the long haul and dependent on maintaining this
relationship. If your pet needs something and I can help, I will. It is not a
matter of how much you can afford, it is merely a matter of whether or not you
want to help the pet that you are responsible for and that needs you. I’ll
press my boldness further. We will stand by our services, goods, and your pet
through thick or thin as long as we are both on the same side, and with veterinary
healthcare there is only one side, helping your pet.
Be good to your vet, be better to your pet, and get the best
deal anyone can ever give you by keeping your pets care under your vet’s roof.
I guarantee that there isn't anyone who can beat that deal.
If you have a pet related question you can ask me anytime at Pawbly.com. There are a host of people there who can help you and your pet and it is always free to use. Or find me on Twitter @FreePetAdvice.
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