Thrifty Thursday: Keeping Vet Bills Low

This week's Thrifty Thursday post is about keeping your vet bills low.

Believe it or not, taking your pet for an annual visit to the vet generally will help cut down on your overall pet expenses by having the vet being able to catch problems in the early stages. Problems with the teeth are an expensive example. If the vet sees a build up of tartar for instance, instead of spending hundreds of dollars when it's out of control, simply switching the pets food to a dry food, chewing on a bone, or brushing your pet's teeth would save money.

Many pet stores such as the national chain Petco host a reduced rate vaccination clinic every month. I believe for around $42, your pet can receive all the major vaccinations, including rabies. This is more than half off the usual price of most vet clinics!

Another option if you have a cat is to cut down on the vaccinations. If your cat is indoor only, and doesn't come in contact with other pets, usually you can ask to receive just the Rabies vaccination. However, please keep in mind that some diseases can spread with a simple sneeze through a window screen, so take all things into consideration and speak with your vet if taking that option. I actually did this with my eldest cat who passed on a few months ago - as he got older, I didn't want to pump him full of drugs.

Also, contact your local pet shelter or rescue group. Often they can put you in touch with vet clinics who will work with you on any medical bills, or let you know of other reduced rate options. I often see free or reduced spay and neuter, and vaccination mobile clinics advertised through Craigslist in conjunction with certain rescue groups. The downside is you have to be there very early in the morning to be in line as only a certain number of people are accepted. But it's a great option for those who can't afford the bills but want to keep their pet as healthy as possible.