Many seniors live on tight budgets, and when an unexpected expense occurs, it can be problematic. Seniors who own pets not only face the difficulty of paying large veterinary bills; they also must deal with the emotional strain of knowing the pet they love is hurting or seriously ill, while its owner feels helpless to make things better. If you should ever find yourself in such a predicament, here are suggestions to help you pay for pet healthcare costs.
First, plan ahead and try to set aside regular savings for pet emergencies, so you aren’t completely blindsided should an unexpected problem arise.
Of course, you should ask your veterinarian if he or she could set up a payment plan for whatever work is needed. Many vets are able to work with you.
The Humane Society of the United States has a list of breed-specific groups that assist animals of their breed. They also keep a list of organizations that provide help to senior pet owners.
Contact the Veterinary School at a nearby university to see if they offer any kind of discounted fees.
Obtaining a CareCredit account could help. (www.carecredit.com) Many veterinary clinics now accept those for payment.
There may be a non-profit organization in your area that assists with veterinary medical needs. Proof of financial need is usually required.
Seniors for Pets, a non-profit which I operate, assists seniors in my area of Southwest Florida with basic veterinary needs for their pets. Vaccinations, annual exams and flea & tick and heartworm preventatives are included in the services. Proof of financial need and/or references are required. Other similar organizations operate in other states.
Contact animal welfare groups where you live. They often know of organizations that provide the services you need. If your area has a Community Foundation, call them and ask if they can refer anyone. Many philanthropic groups belong to such foundations.
Many local Food Banks offer pet food as well as human food, as do Meals on Wheels in some areas.
Help is out there, but you sometimes have to dig a bit to find it.
