What to Do When You Need Affordable Veterinary Care for Your Pet
Dealing with a sick pet can be devastating on so many levels. There is nothing quite like watching a formerly rambunctious, playful animal transform into one that is sluggish and lethargic, and that doesn't have much of an appetite. After you've done what you can do at home only to find that nothing is working, you know that you're going to need professional assistance. The issue is that you might not have much discretionary income on your hands to pay for the treatment. Use this information to learn more about a couple of things you can do to get your animal the care they need at an affordable price.
Take Your Animal to a Veterinary School
A great place to go when you need budget-friendly medical care for your pet is a local veterinary school. These facilities are staffed with veterinary students who can administer a range of services to animals who require treatment.
Taking your pet to a veterinary school is good for a number of reasons. The pupils there aren't fully licensed just yet, so they don't command the prices that you may find at private clinics. It's a mutually beneficial relationship that helps both parties. You can find relief for your sick animal at a budget-friendly price, while the veterinary student gets the chance to hone their skills by applying what they've learned in a real-world situation. This kind of experience is absolutely invaluable for them because it helps with their proficiency, so they'll be ready to go once they graduate.
The American Veterinary Medical Association (AVMA) is a major accrediting body in the United States. You can find a list of the schools accredited by this organization by checking this website.
Call Your Local Humane Society
Local humane societies can also be a godsend when you're looking to get veterinary care that won't break the bank. There are typically doctors there, either on-staff or on-call to treat sick animals that are going to be put up for adoption. Call your local center and find out which days they offer free and discounted medical services to the public. The price point could turn out to be just affordable enough for you to take your pet in.
Don't think that you don't have options when your pet is ill. The next time your animal needs to set a vet, remember these tips, so they can receive help without delay. For more information, you may want to do a little research on a veterinary hospital near you.