About Veterinary Health Care

Questions and answers reprinted with permission from the Ontario Veterinary Medical Association.

My injured (sick) pet needs to be seen by a veterinarian for prompt attention, but:a) I just lost my job...b) I don't get my next pay for another two weeks...c) I barely have enough money to put food on the table...d) etcetera   
Most pet owners have a regular veterinarian who will work out a payment plan with his/her regular clients. The problem arises with people who have pets that do not get regular veterinary care, but demand and seek services in an emergency situation without guaranteeing payment. If you choose not to establish yourself with a veterinary practice, you should give consideration to how you will manage the financial aspect of an emergency situation involving your pet. 

My veterinarian says my pet's office visit / vaccinations / surgery / medication, etc. adds up to a couple hundred dollars or more! I just don't have that kind of money all at once. What about terms...a payment plan that's fair to both parties?   
Like most other professional offices you visit (your dentist, chiropractor, lawyer, etc.) fees are payable at the time service is rendered.
Your best course of action is to call your veterinary hospital ahead of time and inquire about alternative payment methods. The hospital manager will be happy to clarify the payment policy of the individual hospital.

We recommend you try to budget for veterinary care in your household budget.

Many veterinary preventive health care services can be staggered over a period of time, rather than doing "everything" in one visit. Your veterinarian can best advise you which procedures can be deferred, if necessary.

Most veterinary facilities accept payment by major credit cards. This is especially helpful at the time of a medical emergency.