The Responsibility Project^®. Exploring what it means to do the right thing

The Price of Pet Care

1947 Comments

May 23, 2008 by Kathy McManus

How much is that doggy in the window? 

The one with the waggley tail may seem like a bargain these days compared to the dog with the $3,000 pacemaker. Or the cat with the $8,000 kidney transplant. Or the pet chicken undergoing radiation therapy after cancer surgery. 

Medical care for pets now rivals medical care for humans, with veterinary oncologists, neurologists, cardiologists and other specialists providing high tech, big-bucks treatment for Fido and Fluffy. 

But when cats have chemo and dogs have dialysis, their owners have something too: unexpected ethical issues triggered by enormous medical bills. “Is the 15-year-old tabby worth $12,000 in dialysis?” asks a newspaper story with the nagging headline: Do some pet owners go a little too far? 

“I admit sometimes questioning the reality of spending $11,000 on my cat when there are greater human needs,” said a California college professor, who readily paid for feline chemotherapy and pancreatitis treatment. 

U.S. pet owners will spend more than $24 billion this year on pet medical care, an amount greater than the gross domestic product of more than half of the world’s countries. 

But when man’s best friend is a integral member of the family, the question of whether it’s appropriate to spend top-dollar for animal medical care is often more emotional than financial. With the unconditional love, friendship, and support of a beloved companion at stake, many pet owners feel they don’t have the option of not providing—and paying for—expensive medical care. 

It’s not a simple issue, said one veterinarian. When you hear of a medical bill of $14,000 for a dog, he explained, people ask, “Should you not just buy a new dog and give the money to charity? That, I have to say, is a non-starter of an argument. You then have to ask all sorts of questions about how people spend their money—should they spend it on big cars?” 

Tell us what you think: When it comes to expensive veterinary medical care, is it more responsible to pay for a pet or perhaps give the money to charity instead?

1947 Comments

What do you think? Leave a comment

• May 28, 2008 by Libby Liebig

  My husband and I just spent close to $10,000 total, treating his 7 year old horse for crushed cartilage in a front leg. When we started the treatment, in no way, did we know it would cost that much. After we were about $2k into it, we realized we really didn't want to have to put him down, one of the decisions that WE made personally. Yes, friends and family are telling us we're nuts, but we're the ones that sacrificed a well deserved and looked forward to vacation, we canceled. I think what people spend on their animals is their own business. We would not have taken that money and given it to a charity because we had already set it aside for a vacation. We DO give a lot of money to charities every year so that money didn't get "taken" from anyone but us.

  Reply

  • February 24, 2009 by Free James

    I agree with you whole heartedly.

    Reply

    • April 28, 2010 by megan

      that is so sad wish i could help

    • May 25, 2010 by amy

      my oh my is he or she ok?!

    • June 3, 2010 by lauren e barber

      pets can get sick when they eat something, stamace ack.

    • July 1, 2010 by faith jackson

      i think u guy's should railly give a big thank's 2 people who do take care of cat's and i think you guy's should have a cat commercial saying how you take good care of cats in need i hope you do it if you do i give u a big thank's... i give you a promos that me and my friend's will HALP an i wil tall there parent's

      THANKE's=]

    • July 16, 2010 by mary bailey

      I agree with the horse owner, because I have a dog that is my baby and we have had a lot of medical expenses with him also he is 11 yrs. old and I do not regreat anything.

    • July 25, 2010 by Mary Ellen Lazzara

      I totally agree with you, I just spent 3000.00 on my dog for a hospital emergency and he needs life long care that will cost 200.00 a month. I don't know where I am going to get this money, or pay back my credit card but when you love an animal that much all you do is hope, you don't worry about money at that time, all you worry about is that your pet is ok. The love of a pet is a strong emotion that some people will never understand.

    • August 1, 2010 by erhart sopp

      what price for love-- always help your family-- what would they do for you, please help them you will not regret it. Ed

    • August 3, 2010 by emma

      that is relly sad :(:(:0:0

    • August 4, 2010 by teeteeeee

      hey i wish i could help tooooooo

    • August 8, 2010 by hayley

      awwwwwwwwwwwwwww i would do anything to help that dog

    • August 13, 2010 by kendrick

      oh my god so sad

    • August 23, 2010 by gerilyn carpenter

      Why cant people help

    • August 28, 2010 by alyssa

      yeah thats true.....i thank i need a dog thats the one for me i love dog i got one name buddy he is a colly-love that dog so much i will never let it go in my life.i need him more then he needs me.he is my dream dog i will always have. he is so cute. he likes to lick people.he is the color whith,black,brown. the best dog i ever had.so my dog is better then yours.

  • May 1, 2009 by Deb Basha

    Our relationships with our pets is indeed a personal one. People who love and respect their pets will make the right choices.We have lost 5 pets in the last year and a half, ranging in ages 15-18 years. When the quality of life was slipping, we had to make the decision to let them go. It has been hard, but there is not a one of them I would not have taken steps to extend their lives if that had been an option.Our precious little dachshund rescue was very ill from a spider bite a few years back and spending over $2,000.00 on his recovery was the right thing to do. Like another writer, we just sacrificed in another area of life. Our Golden rescue required extensive testing. There is NO way I would have let this deserving dog suffer without at least trying to find out what her problem was. She is now fine and healthy, and I feel great about our decision to spend the money and correct the problem. Another plus is to have a vet that you trust....one who will honestly tell you if testing, medical intervention will help. Also, you should have a vet who trusts your knowledge of your pet. We know our animals, and we want the best for them. blessings to every person who loves an animal!

    Reply

    • April 21, 2010 by david shaw

      I dont care what the other people think. I believe that if an animal has a chance they should have it. Ihave brought numerus lives back from the brink of death. 23 in all. whwn every one else would have them euthenized. Ipersonally am against euthenazia.

    • June 15, 2010 by brittany

      hello how r u do u know anybody abuse pets its not nice or not cool at all. thanks, brittany

    • July 22, 2010 by lulu

      okkk baby trutle is ugly i hate them

    • August 8, 2010 by mimi

      I understand what u are going through. last week my mastiff was sick. He had bloody diarreah and was vomiting nonstop. I took him to the emergency vet and after $2,000 the vet still doesn't know whats wrong with wrighley. He wants to do surgery but I can not afford to do it cause we are tight on money. He is everything to me since I haven't been able to have children my dog means the world to us. If I had the money to pay for his surgery I would do it because he fills my life with joy and gets me up when I get deppress when I think about me not being able to have children.

    • August 30, 2010 by pmaryf

      Blessings upon you.

  • December 22, 2009 by Judy Q.

    GOOD FOR YOU!!!!!!!

    Reply

    • May 22, 2010 by Rebecca Buttelo

      I think people need to undersand that our pets give us unconditional love and acceptance, which is a lot more than we get from people around us. These animals that we take are our responsibility to give them a wonderful,healty, and safe environment to live in. As far as I am concerned; they are very much like children, and do in fact become a member of our families. I think that money can definitely become an issue when faced with a emergent situation, requiring more revenue than we have, but what if it were one of your children? Would you do anything and everythng in your power to save one of them? They have no voice to beg us for a chance, and I think they deserve every opportunity available to give them what they need. They didn't ask to be born and it is our choice to take them in, which then becomes our responsibility to care for them as needed if at all possible.

    • May 22, 2010 by Debra Walton

      I AGREE WITH YOU WHOLE HEARTEDLY!!!!!!!!!

  • March 3, 2010 by billy dillard

    so either way not going to any needy.

    Reply

    • June 5, 2010 by Linda

      Our task must be to free ourselves from the prison by widening our circle of compassion to embrace all living creatures and the whole of nature in its beauty... Albert Einstein

      Of course its worth it. There are personal decisions involved just like there are when people go through chemo or traumatic medical procedures.

  • April 21, 2010 by david shaw

    I think and that is very selfish and greedy

    Reply

    • May 22, 2010 by tinsley

      that is not right .

    • August 2, 2010 by brooke

      no I do not understand can you tell me please.

    • August 6, 2010 by david luce

      your sir are an idiot, sorry but i would gladly kill for my dog, just as he would kill for me, family is family. maybe your not an animal person but sorry i get to choose how to spend my earned money the way i want to, and in my mind the world is way to overpopulated with people anyways.

    • August 21, 2010 by Chellie

      You think it's selfish and greedy for people to spend their own money the way they want to? Do you want money police telling YOU how to spend yours? Like the good doctor said in the article, where do you begin to tell people what they can and cannot buy?

    • September 2, 2010 by Robert Young

      So sorry you feel that way, thank God there are other people who care!

  • April 26, 2010 by mark laskowski

    I did not have $10,000 to spend but i did spend $300 to have my wifes cat's eye removed and his skull fixed ,$250 to have my dog's leg cut off ,it was either that or put him down ,same thing for the cat .Dont ever let someone tell you that animals arnt worth the cost,I beleive it depends on the severity of the injury and how much you love your animal and if you can afford it or not.I would have borrowed the money if i did not have it.People want to say that animals dont have a soul, have you ever noticed the diffrent personalities each dog or each hourse has?Personality means emotion and thought ,those two mean soul,An animal loves it's young enough to defend it from predetors,they show love back to us also,sometimes i can see more emotion in my dog's eyes than i do people,.Dont ever dout if you did the right thing or not ,you know you did.leave it.

    Reply

    • April 30, 2010 by Ann

      I agree, the more people I meet, the more I love my dogs.

    • May 5, 2010 by linda

      by Ann 4-30-10. "Amen"

    • May 7, 2010 by M. Hall

      Mark L -- I agree with you wholeheartedly --- I have a pet tom cat, Footz, so named for his LONG white toes on his rascally tabby bod---- That dear feline soul has shown me More LOVE, adoration and attention, having been in my life for 8 years, than my brother has @ 68 years of age--- YES, animals have souls and emotion~!! Don't any one doubt it --

    • June 6, 2010 by dianna

      i know why i love my pets after talking to people and they are worth everything that the cost and i don't think twice. because they have more love than any person i have met and are more loyal,too.that is a fact.

    • June 18, 2010 by kiana

      thats sad you better help that dog and send it to an animal shelter

    • July 24, 2010 by sue

      yes animals can understand & give back alot more than sometimes you give them. we just lost our cocker that we took in about 10 years ago & he was probably abou 5 when his previous owner moved off left him & he was so well trained it was unbelievable they'd leave him. so since no one in the neighborhood seemed to want to take care of him & after a few times him coming inside like he owned the place:) we kept him. took him to vet & had a good check up got & done everything we could for him long as we had him. it's so hard to write this. but we last him june 9 while we all was on vacation, couldn't get him to vet in time. but at least he was with us. i sure miss the love he gave me & those big brown eyes could tell you what ever you wanted to know & he didn't do without anything. tghe vet said think he had a heart attack but he was fine that morning, so loving we was going to take him out for his walk then take him with us riding around. we had noticed at times he seem to have slowed down but at his age that was normal. can tell you he run the house got what ever he wanted food, grooming & loving even laid on bed at night. how anyone could have turned this dog away i don't know, he didn't have a bad bone in his body & so kind to anyone or animal. never any trouble & made every step outside with my husband. i still cry. so these people say they are just a dog don't know what they are talking about. animals has feelings also & like you say can see more compasion & love in their eyes than some people. so don't ever take your pet for granite like you wouldn't take your kids for granite, so they are part of the family that you will do what ever you can to help them well or sick. thanks for listening

    • September 8, 2010 by marilue

      I need help, our cat just got hit, it was taken to a clinic in TO.Ca, they wanted $1170, followed by additional fees in the Am, followed by a consult by an oral surgeon. I am flat broke, sick and out of work.Any ideas where I can take him, his jaw is broken, Desperate Owner

  • May 7, 2010 by leslie

    i was wondering how to care for a minature when it has a fever and cant get up we gave her some mineral oil and she still wont get up what can i do to make her more comfortable

    Reply

    • June 7, 2010 by michelle

      i can help you with your dogs

    • June 30, 2010 by angie

      Our dogs are treated as well as our kids. I was once told by the animal control officer that when they do an animal rescue they usually have to call cps right behind them. Of course if our animal was sick and we could afford the cost we would do it...If not we would either try to raise the money or humanely put them to sleep....If you don't wish to be bothered by kids or pets don't have them...Let someone who wants them adopt them!

    • July 16, 2010 by Debbi Lee

      Take the poor thing to the vet immediately before you end up costing her her life.

    • August 10, 2010 by kellyann

      when u find out let me knw mine seem to be the same way please

  • May 9, 2010 by Christine Waltman

    It's my money and I'll spend it on whatever I damn well feel like. I love my animals more than I like most people. I call it money well spent when I can ease the suffering of a helpless creature.

    Want to save money when it comes to pets? Attention owners of cute little mini dogs and purebred puppies. What about all the wasted money you spend buying expensive pedigreed pups. You are the ONLY reason puppy mills and pet exploitation exists. You are also the reason that so many millions of poor animals have to be put down each year. That costs money too and so does housing these unwanted pets due to irresponsible pet owners who don't spay/neuter their animals and those who just have to have a yorkie, poodle, or maltese instead of a perfectly wonderful mixed breed from the fate of the pound.

    Reply

    • May 17, 2010 by Mae

      "Attention owners of cute little mini dogs and purebred puppies. What about all the wasted money you spend buying expensive pedigreed pups. You are the ONLY reason puppy mills and pet exploitation exists. You are also the reason that so many millions of poor animals have to be put down each year. That costs money too and so does housing these unwanted pets due to irresponsible pet owners who don't spay/neuter their animals and those who just have to have a yorkie, poodle, or maltese instead of a perfectly wonderful mixed breed from the fate of the pound."

      Excuse me? My cute little mini-dog did not come from a puppy mill. He is not exploited but is actually rather pampered and spoiled. He's certainly not unwanted. He also brings a lot of joy to my neighbors in our senior community as he is friendly and others like to pet and play with him. Nor am I an irresponsible pet owner. I simply saw an adorable, smart, beautiful little pup that stole my heart away. I don't consider my money wasted at all.

      As you said, "It's my money and I'll spend it on whatever I damn well feel like."

    • June 28, 2010 by Ellen

      Exactly - as many on here so far have expressed. I will spend my money the way I see fit and every dog I have had has been closer to me than most people I know. I won;t go into the multitude of benefits to us that they are. Those that understand it have no need for me to do that. Those who don't would not agree no matter what I said! My dog means the world to me and always will, just as those who have passed over the rainbow bridge meant the same when they were with me! She is not my whole life but she does make my life whole......what more is there to say?

    • July 5, 2010 by April

      My husband and I have a dog that we adopted she is the product of a puppy mill she has glaucoma, a heart murmur and severe allergies. We also have a cat who we rescued from a neglectful home when he was a kitten. There is nothing that we would not do for our babies. A puppy mill dog has so many issues from the emotional trauma and physical abuse that she spent while being forced breed. We have put a lot of money into her and we would jump through hoops for her. She has already lost one eye and will lose the other and we will never give up on her. She is our baby. I do know that we jumped through hoops for our 2 boys and they are grown and now we focus on our two babies. Some would say and have already there is no way I would rescue a dog just to have to put money into it and keep diapers on her while she is in the house. We have been asked why don't you just put her down. I say look she has a will to live, she is still very much active and it is due to the greed of humans that she is the way she is.

  • May 16, 2010 by Patricia Schaefer

    Thank God for people like you. Yes, it is a responsibility and you gave of your love and money to help a helpless creature. And its also responsible people like you who also give to charity to help their fellow man. You have love in your soul, mind and very being.

    Reply

    • July 18, 2010 by judy

      We have children we love them. Hug,kiss them. They did not asked to be born, we made that choice. We do, give, teach them, Protect them,take care of our children when they get sick. Even when they grow up, out on there own. They are still our babies!!! Well puppies, kittens are the same and any other animal. They didnt ask us to adopt them. Pets are like children, they need all the same things. Love!!!! the main one!!!! Judy.

    • August 6, 2010 by julanna

      awwwwwwwwwww I feel really bad for that dog. i mean it is just a dog it doesn't deserve this i mean its a dog. stupid disgusting ugly person that drove the car!!!!!!!!!!!!!! if it was a car.

  • May 22, 2010 by Jeanette

    I find this article offensive. Why? Because we live in a country where some people are spoiled rotten-- spending $90,000 on a freakin' CAR, millions on a HOUSE, hundreds on a MEAL.How about the $1000 shoes and $30,000 dress? We indulge ourselves and spoil ourselves because we're "worth it." And this guy comes along and criticizes people who take their own money and use it to alleviate the suffering of God's creatures? I saw a TV show just last night about whores who sell their bodies for $10,000 a night, and $40,000 a week. They call themselves high class. The men who pay for them undoubtedly think they're high class. Why can't all the money that goes for these mere THINGS be used to alleviate the suffering of others instead? Why isn't the writer asking that question? He probably, like most Americans, finds it easy to eat dead animal meat three meals a day. Does he think of how those animals lived and died? For him. So his taco wouldn't be boring. Shame, is all I can say.

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  • May 23, 2010 by kiarra

    what kind of dog is he? he is really cute i fill really sorry!

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  • May 27, 2010 by ling raphael

    i will pay for my pets midical bill

    Reply

    • May 30, 2010 by destiny

      this dog is cuter than i thoght

  • June 12, 2010 by Brian

    we fully understand our Doberman had Wobblers Syndrome after $3,000.00 in testing and a estimate of 8 to 12 thousand for sugery and after care we went the holistic route and did accupuncture and chiropratic and am happy to say he is doing very well he was paralized from the neck down in 2008 and the treatment listed above has him up and running and playing attached is a link to 2 videos on youtube that i hope will help someone else http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=b8U-4Q8M-fg

    Reply

    • August 2, 2010 by sharon

      My first Doberman also had Wobblers. Two cervical laminectomies, tests, etc.. to tune of approximately $20,000 he died after spending more than two months in the vet's hospital paralyzed from the neck down. In retrospect, I can be accused of animal abuse for the unintentional hell I put him through. Think carefully about your pet's best interest before you satisfy your own needs and resort to heroic measures in your pet's "best interests". I am happy your Dobe is doing well.

  • July 18, 2010 by Sue Stevens

    I also agree. I don't think it's anyone else's business what you do with your own money. If I had it at the right time, if my animals needed it, you bet I'd spend it on them. They're better company then alot of people!! Sorry, but that's how I feel.

    Reply

  • July 25, 2010 by Joyce M.Wooten

    -It's gotten to be quite a racket.I know of a woman who's daughter worked at a zoo.She repeatedly took her dog with her,and it contracted a worm under it's skin that is found in elephant dung.- The vet told her that it was skin cancer,..and misled well over $9,000.00 out of her for 'treatments.' Greedy,unethical scumbags.

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    • August 2, 2010 by sharon

      Right On! I have more respect for a real estate agent than I do for a veterinarian and that isn't saying much. Scum bags nearly one and all. Decades ago, I had great respect for the veterinary profession. I have no respect for the vet robber barons of today. By the way, when was the last time you met a vet that did any pro bono work, even once a year.

    • August 6, 2010 by Chriista

      To some people, like myself, our pets are more than just animals they are our children and a HUGE part of our lives. I would do just about anything for my 4 legged childrren except prolong their suffering. I would do anything I can to give them every chance to live a happy life. I have chosen not to have 2 legged children so what ever my fur babies need they get. People must realize there is no such thing as a "FREE" pet and when someone CHOOSES to own an animal they have the responsability to everything they can to keep them healthy and protected

    • August 18, 2010 by Colleen

      Sorry but not all Vets are what you say. I have been Blessed to have had 3 differant ones in 3 differant states who I would trust my life in their hands. They have cared for my animals and have done a lot of probono work for me as well as many others who just couldn't afford to have their animals taken care of. Yes I have been run thru the cleaners by some. But you show me a profession of any kind that doesn't have the money grubbers in it. Shame on you to classify all in the same catagory. I have a sick cat right now that our vet told us don't worry about the money you can pay me when you have it or we can barter to work it off. Its more important that we get her back on her feet. There are vets out there who truely love animals. They do have expenses too you know and they have families that need the same things that we do.

  • July 27, 2010 by Robert

    Good for you, your animal will last longer than the week, two week vacation or so would have lasted.

    Reply

  • July 29, 2010 by della

    I just had to put my cat of 15 years to sleep today July 30th. the people that took care of her were great. And yes it did cost alot, but she was my buddy.320.00 but i we have to take care of our buddys, This is for you my buddy Nike.

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  • July 31, 2010 by Billydon Church

    I am 81 years old. I have a beautiful, caring wife. I had an ugly, yet adorable Boston terrier who thought I had "hung the moon". He contracted an incurable pneumonia and while he was strangling and wheezing for air, I had to have him euthaniized. I didn't care whether I lived or died for eight weeks. He had other health problems, including diabetes, and we had to spend between $200 and $300 per month the last few months he was alive. Had it been twice that amount, we would have gladly spent it to give him an equal amount of love. He deserved it. And so did we.

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  • August 1, 2010 by sassy

    oh i would get it but cost to much prolly well he or she gets better

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  • August 6, 2010 by jane

    i wish the best to and god bless you in many way and heal all problems you have. Also i would love to help but i can not so god bless you in as many way he can.So good luck and hope you get blessed many ways.Dont let anything stop you just keep going and every thing will be alright.God bless!

    Reply

  • August 7, 2010 by Bonnie Robertson

    I'm sorry that your horse was so ill. I know what it means to have an pet and lose him/her. Three years ago my husband and I lost our precious Springer Spaniel to a broken back. We kept hoping he would heal, but when he didn't and became paralyzed we had to do what was best for him and euthanize him. We were there with him when the doctor gave him the injection and we stayed with him for a long time after because he had been such a part of our lives, we didn't know how to leave the vet's office without him.

    We still have his ashes and until we know where to spread them we will keep them close by,

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  • August 9, 2010 by NCjo

    Good for you!! Not even a question about it. We have readily and willingly spent more than that on "babies' no longer with us and would do so again to care for our current pets. (We have two Springer Spaniels.) Our dogs are a priority. We have no children and we don't spend irresponsible amounts of money but when you acquire a pet it becomes a member of the family and as such is deserving of the same care you would expect to give a family member. Plus, the love and devotion our dogs give us more than repays the bills!! I would never consider some of these suggestions, matter of fact, I can't even repeat them!! What garbage-save it for a charity???!! Why don't we all stop taking expensive vacations, splurging on expensive cars or even our appearance. Why?? Because when it comes to our hard earned money it is nobody's damn business what I spend it on. It is especially galling to question what I spend on my beloved pets. I spend a fortune in taxes to keep deadbeats and illegal immigrants afloat these days. I think I can decide where what is left of my money goes. And yes they are little beings in fur coats to us. They have a soul and it shines within them. If you have ever loved an animal you know this. Just get your own priorities straight.

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  • August 10, 2010 by kelly corbin

    i can relate ure pet is a family member if not more be happy u had it me on the other hand my chuwawa is sick out of nowhere i just payed rent etc. an now my kids baby dnt feel well an they look to me to fix him not knowing the cost i dont have a dollar til my next pay to even walk in the vet door an no doctor care im clueless in what to do cause my family an people i thought were my friends feel like im crazy for crying for our baby being sick i just had no ideal how no one would take my word that i would come back an pay them on my payday its just horrible an i dont think my baby is going to make it til monday do u knw anyone who can help me or pay with their creditcard to the animal hospital in my area or vet an we can make arrangements 4 me to payback i dont know im at the end of my wits i dont knw what to do i love our baby so much he follow the kids all over the house please help a person who can relate to you pets have more feelings then we do

    Reply

    • August 20, 2010 by Renate

      Why not take your sick animal to the SPCA? They help as much as they can, for a much reduced fee. If we were in trouble, our vet would also help out - but try the SPCA animal hospital. They are your best bet, if you need it to be reasonably priced. Good luck to your baby! R.

  • August 18, 2010 by kathy shoemake

    I BELEIVE I BELEIVE THAT EVERY BREATHING THING ON EARTH NEEDS A CHANCE WITH LIFE ANIMAL OR HUMAN BUT NOT TO SUFFER AFTER TRYING ITS WORTH ALOT MORE TO KNOW IN YOURE HEART TO

    THAT YOU TRIED

    I BELEIVE THAT ALL BREATHING THINGS ON EARTH NEED A CHANCE TO LIFE IT BEING A DOG A CAT A HORSE ANDSO ON ITS

    ITS A TUFF DECESION BUT IF YOU LOVE YOUR PET THAT MUCH ITS WORHT ALL THE MONEY IN THE WORLD TO TRY TO KEEP PART OF YOUR FAMILEY STILL WITH YOU BUT DONT LET THEM SUFFER

    I

    I

    Reply

  • August 20, 2010 by Elsie

    I totally agree. How, a pet owner spends their money, on their pet's health, is their business. My husband and I spent almost $4,000.00 trying to save our 12 years old lab mix from kidney problems. But, after almost two months, her poor weak body just gave up and we had to make the heartbreaking decision to let her go. A pet is part of a person's family, we love them as much as we love our family members.

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  • August 20, 2010 by ally

    i would do anything to help that dog.

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  • September 2, 2010 by Robert Young

    I have been a pack leader of four pack members since 1992. My first pack member a beautiful female husky-colie mix needed surgery to repair a torn ligament in her left hind leg when she was four or five years old. There was no question aboujt it she got what she need and it gave her many more years of being able to run and jump and play with her adopted little brother a german shepard-bassett-chow mix and her adopted litle sister a siberian husky-alaskan malamute mix. Before her surgery I contacted her vet and asked if I could be with her. My vet asked if I could stand the sight of blood, my answer was yes, after viet nam I can stand the sight of anything. I was there with her from the time they put her under, during the surgery and until she woke. Always talking to her and with one hand on her. I would lie down on a table a give any part of me to her or any of my pack to heal any of their wounds. They ask for so little and give so much

    Reply

• May 29, 2008 by Candace Rodriguez

  Thank goodness for free will. We are allowed to make our own choices and if we have the money to spend then why not?

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  • May 24, 2009 by Percy Meltar

    Pets grow with you and become a family member. Should money matter when you are caring for a loved one?

    Reply

    • May 20, 2010 by Jenny Muniamal Naidu

      Why would even think about it if money matters at all. Man, I love my animals. I live in the state of Nevada now for the last 14 years, and they've just passed a new law that all animals in a household must be fixed and mandatory. I am so hurt by this because I feel that they are tempering on God's Ground. I have to spay all my dogs........and not only that, you are only allowed 3 dogs. It is not that I want all the dogs in the world, but the ones I have, I never went out there to get them. These are the ones who needed a home. So now I love them like they are my children. I am so afraid of them taking them away from me. They, the animal control folks have been here already last week. So if any one hears me, please help with guidance

• May 30, 2008 by Dawn Campbell

  I agree with Candace that this is a personal choice that we should make on our own without comments about our beloved pets. Circumstances have to be put in to the decision, will this make their life better or just prolong a painful one etc. There are free clinics or low cost pet hospitals for those who do not have the money and research is the only answer when something comes up. I know that my pet deserves whatever I can do to keep her happy and healthy, as this was a commitment I gave to her when we got her. If it were something serious I would also get more than one opinion to make sure that I was informed and prepared. My pet is part of my family and I will do what I need to do.

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  • March 31, 2009 by Kathleen Andrews

    I am a sixty year old, disabled woman that lost my home, all material goods, my daughter and granddaughter in hurricane Katrina. I live on $600.00 A month disability. When the only thing I have left in this world ;my cat Serenity became ill, I sold everything I had to pay a $2,000 vet bill. He still needs more vet care. Where do you find low cost vet care? Without Serenity I am alone in the world.

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    • April 29, 2010 by moodymoose77

      Hi: were you able to get a vet for Serenity? I pray you did and she recovered and I wish I had read this sooner so I could have helped. It is April 24th 2010

    • May 20, 2010 by jenny

      I hope that Serenity is better now. Where are you?. If ever you need an extra kitten/cat., let me know okay! May The Good Lord Bless you and your baby Serenity

    • June 5, 2010 by lynn

      I hope Serenity is doing ok. If you are having to pay for high cost prescriptions for her, ask your vet to write the expensive prescriptions to a Candian Pharmacy. I use Medsmart for my own and my cat's prescriptions. I pay $116.00 for 3 moonths supply of prescription meds from Canada that would cost me $550.00 here is America. Their number is 1 866 353 2230.

    • July 16, 2010 by Debbi Lee

      My heart aches for you.... I have family, if thats what you want to call them. They don't bother with me at all except for my brothers. My love for animals is so great I have 12 dogs. I would be lost without them. If I could help you I would. Pray to your guardian angel to help you. God Bless

    • August 20, 2010 by Renate

      Please, please take Serenity to the next SPCA Center - they will help with low cost medical care for sick pets. It's also worth considering pet insurance. I pay $30 per month for major medical coverage for my beloved GSD, so that I can take care of him. I don't happen to have $14,000 lying about, but then there is insurance - my kid is insured, I'm insured, why should my doggie be different?

  • August 2, 2009 by Winston Boulier

    I live in Conn could you tell me where their is low cost vets i sure could not find any please e-mail me some placess win

    Reply

    • April 21, 2010 by david shaw

      Isuggest the localgram animal control officie the have a great spay@neutering program and advice on low cost vaccs.i give mycats there vaccs myself.Also fostelowcostr&smith sell low cost pet supplys through the mail.I know i have 17 little. furry companions

  • August 4, 2009 by Susan Whalen

    Wow! I'm in Windsor Nova Scotia, Canada. I sure could have used one of those free clinics! It was $1250. for my Chihuahua to have an emergency C-Section, and they threw the Hysterectomy in for free so that she would't go thru that again! In the same month, my other pup was in pain and lame so next there was a Laminectomy and a Orchidectomy(sp.) that cost over $1323. I love my pets. It doesn't make sense, but neither did putting them down!

    Reply

  • August 21, 2009 by yolanda

    i have some medical issues of which include kidney stones and removing of gall bladder. I still have my kidney stint, of which 2 had to be placed cause the first one got infected. i am not able to take care of my bully (mr. Louie). He used to belong to my husband (now deceased), i luv this bully but am unable to provide medical care for him. I hate to see him suffering. I don't want you to think that i am being selfish, i was in the process of taking care of him when i got sick. Now when i got home i found him in not too good a shape. he had a bad disease, skin disease,now his foot is infected, looks like puss i don't want to have to put him down, but was hopeful that someone would help me.

    Reply

    • May 1, 2010 by Kathy Yarbrough

      What kind of bad disease does or did he have ?

    • May 24, 2010 by carly

      i wish i could help to

    • June 8, 2010 by harriet

      Have you looked into pet insurance? It is usually $100.00 deductable, at least in Pa, but it covers all types of medical problems. God bless you and your "baby" and keep you save.

  • April 6, 2010 by Bonnie Rochon

    I've yet to find any free vet care for my dog who is getting old and having some problems. I'm terified how I'm gonna pay for any major condition that comes up as I'm on Social Secuirty and a limited income and my dog is the greatest and sweetest dog ever and I've had her for 12 years. Any kind of surgery or even dental is gonna kill me with money I don't have and it's not fair to her to not take good care of her needs as she gets older. It breaks my heart. I know she now has a "fatty tumor" and her teeth are bad already. She's already on a bunch of meds for ears. She's a Cocker Spaniel.

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    • August 14, 2010 by rixi

      i fell sad for pets that fell sick

  • May 8, 2010 by carol harvey

    I would seriously like to know where you live that has "free" and "lowcost" animal clinics? No such thing here.

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    • May 30, 2010 by sarah

      Where do you live? I would be happy to try and find and give you adresses of low cost vet clinics.

    • August 1, 2010 by donna

      Wow, so this guy thinks its horrible to spend money on animals. Well just think of all the billions spent housing persons who are comatose, demented, chronically ill and will never have quality of life. Where is the justice in keeping a person on a feeding tube, on a ventilator when there is nothing left upstairs. How about all those millions of persons on dialysis who exist just to go 3 times a week to have their blood cleanse, don't work, and are bitter, angry and give nothing back to society. He's right we should put everyone to sleep, the pets, the chronically ill and throw in the felon's while were at it.

    • August 6, 2010 by Julianna Smith

      cry cry cry cry cry poor dog, i mean seriously its just a beuatiful dog open your eyes people!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! cry cry cry cry cry cry cry cry sorry about all the crying. i feel bad!!! real bad about that dog.

    • August 7, 2010 by marilyn offield

      i put it in wrong it was bonnie rohchon:with her cocker spaniel & sarah who replyed sarah i'am the person with dasiy & pyothrax......thx

• June 5, 2008 by Angela Lawrence

  Pets often become beloved family members and are treated as such. If the family has the money for expensive treatments to prolong the life of their beloved pet, then I say let them spend it as they wish! Money can't buy happiness, so they say, but it can often purchase the opportunity to extend happiness for sure. I was devastated by the loss of my own "one in a lifetime" dog in 1999. The last 5 years of his 19 year life I did spend a good amount of money to keep him as healthy and comfortable as possible during his senior years. I also give to charities and am socially responsible with my money. But I would not have made a choice between my pet and giving to some charity just because it might have made better sense to someone out there. So, I believe it's a personal decision, if one can afford it and it makes them happy then it's their personal choice.

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  • May 4, 2009 by rachael anne boggs

    I hope your dog will be okay. I’m praying for all of you.

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    • May 1, 2010 by michelle

      thank you if u have a dog i hope your dog get better

  • May 14, 2009 by diane danderson

    After my son graduated high school, my Christmas gift was a 15 oz,. 8 week old Miniature Pinscher. Found in a terrible breeders home in Leslie county, in a bird cage. Gave $250 plus medical bill for him. Walked through human sewage to get to the home. My son at 22, 6"2' said ,"Mom let me take you because I am an LPN and just got off work. Heaven came to me when I reached the porch.Two small little paws belonging to AKA Sebastian was on the front door. He spent 41/2 years with me and dad called him Bubba man. Love and miss him 150% He tailgated at EKU. He went on every vacation, barked at the vehicles at night and at the geese and ducks and was a total terror. When we reserved a room; one bed for Bubba, and one for mom and dad. Miss him.

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    • May 23, 2010 by mickael vernon

      i hope your dog get bettttttttttter !!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

  • March 6, 2010 by mariah

    they are the best pets i ever saw

    Reply

  • March 13, 2010 by sabrina bowell

    That is so true Angela! as a cat owner myself, I will do whatever it takes to give my pets the proper medical care they deserve. My pets were there for me thru good and tough times and they truly are my real family....it is perfectly normal for pet owners to do the best they could to keep their pets healthy and happy.

    Reply

• June 6, 2008 by Debra Moore

  Like Angela, I have the good fortune to have a beloved family pet, Summer, who has been with us for 18 years. She is a Border Collie who is smarter than me on her worst day! She has helped guard our home, played with my son and the neighborhood children, and been my boon companion for all these years. Summer enjoyed great health all her life until 6 months ago. She now has a slow growing tumor on her spine which causes her some discomfort. I spend what is necessary to keep her pain-free and mobile. When her quality of life reaches the point where I feel it is no longer fair to keep her going for my own selfish reasons, I will perform the last kind thing I can do for her and help her die in peace at the vet's. My husband and I worked hard for our financial standing and we would like to be able to decide on whom or what we spend these hard-earned dollars.

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  • March 10, 2009 by anonymous

    My heart goes out to you. I recently lost my Boston terrier to liver cancer and I kept him every day I felt he was glad to keep going. These are hard days for you and other animal lovers understand. May God bless you - you care so much.

    Reply

  • March 28, 2009 by Alex White

    It's a sad fact that animals don't live long enough, not the good ones. So long as my animal friends are enjoying life, I help them to do so. When the inevitable time comes to release them from pain, I personally take them to the vet and remain with them to the end so they won't be frightened. It's the responsible thing to do. And whether I give to charities or not is no one's business. If I spend 30K on my pet or on a new boat, it's still my money.

    Reply

    • July 13, 2010 by Bob

      I agree with the sentiment that the more people I meet, or the more news I watch, the more I like my dogs better. The world is a sad place and you need to start taking care of those around you and branch out from there. However, I do think there is a point where it's more humane to put an animal down then prolong their suffering because you can't let go. Just my two cents.

      Brian Rock http://learningtocolor.com

  • May 29, 2009 by Erika

    I agree with this comment. It is not up to anyone to judge how others spends there hard earned money, especially when it comes down to people spending money to preserve their FAMILY MEMBERS (which is what any sane, compassionate individual would consider their pet) health or keeping them comfortable. Like Debra, I know that I will make a responsible decision when it comes down to deciding when one of my dogs has "had enough" (either due to old age or disease) and is ready to die peacefully. But my decision to put them down will not be made because of spending too much MONEY on keeping them comfortable. I think any pet owner will know when their dog is ready to go, and will make the responsible decision instead of keeping them around selfishly. I also can't believe some of the content or comments here. What we SHOULD be questioning is people spending their money on drugs, sex, etc. Or better yet: what the heck our government is doing with the taxpayers’ money.

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  • June 15, 2009 by KOCOUREKDD

    I am glad that you wrote your comment. YES we all must fight for freedom of choice. It is your money and your animal. AND YOUR CHOICE. Besides many charities fight your freedom of choice. IT will be stupid to give them your money and let your own dog suffer. But of course they ( pro lifers and other so called charities) will love that and with more money they will try to make it into law.

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  • June 19, 2009 by Renee coltson

    Bravo. I absolute agree with you.

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    • April 18, 2010 by madison

      im sorry

  • July 29, 2009 by mary krueger

    I have a 13 year old yellow lab that has a blood vessel rapidly growing tumor on the back of his neck. He is not a candidate for surgery because he also has a paralyzed larynx and has problems with his breathing. I have gotten some meds from the vet that is suppose to calm him when he get excited, but it works just the opposite for him. I feel helpless as I watch this tumor grow day by day. I too will keep him with us as long as I feel he has quality of life and then will let him pass with respect. This is very hard to do.

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  • November 4, 2009 by casey mc manus

    I admire your decision to help summer continue to thrive and deny yourselves of most likely a well needed vacation.If more people would see that the family pet is just that"FAMILY''We had to put our boxer,Luke down.He had a tumor on his back,and the night before, he cried,and I knew what we had to do.The vet told us it would cost$6000 and than there were no geurentees as to the quality of life. I once read that the most humane thing is to be in the room when the vet gives the final enjection and you talk to your pet and pet him.Iwas battling breast cancer,so finances were tight,I think even if we could afford it I think we still would have put him down.We got another boxer the same day,basically for the grandbaby's sake.

    Reply

  • December 30, 2009 by amanda sholts

    I think if a dog is in misery or pain pain put them down it's better for the dog

    Reply

    • April 23, 2010 by riley

      por por por dog

    • May 9, 2010 by danylion

      wowo thats so mean to put a dog down id do watever i can

    • July 2, 2010 by Vicki

      putting a any animal is not an easy thing to do, we just had to make that decision in Feb 2010 for our 18 year old baby girl. She was in pain and nothing would of helped her, she lost the use of her back legs, we looked into carts for her, but with her age and having arthritis since she was 12, we knew her front legs wold not be able to withstand pulling her weight. She was a chow/collie mix that I rescued from a dog pound, the day she was suppose to be put to sleep. Would we have paid to help her, we we had the checkbook and was ready to do whatever we could for her, but we did not have that option or she would still be with me today. I have been doing canine rescue now for almost 7 years and our rescue will do whatever we have to give a dog or puppy a chance to live a healthy life, yes I have had to make decision for them also that I really did not like having to do but when you get a dog in with cancer and it has already gone to the brain and the dog is in pain, throwing up can't keep anything down, running into everything, can crying while she was sleeping, you know in your heart what you have to do. i did have her cremated and she is still with me and always will be, she may not have been one of my personal dogs but she had my heart from the beginning. They seem to do that to me, even though they are only here for a short time.

  • April 30, 2010 by Joann

    I know what you mean about your pet being a big part of your family. In March of 2010 my dog was diagnosed with cancer. We did major surgery on his heart to take the sac around it so the fluids will not retain in his stomach. That was risky but well worth the money and suffering through his recovery. The tumor on his heart cannot be removed because of the risk. The cancer has spread to his lungs. He is not in any pain and is doing good on Chemo so far. We are in about 15,000 or more in Vet bills and hospitals not including my travel to the hospital every three weeks which is in Knoxsville TN and we live in the Tri-Cities area. I dread the day I will have to say goodbye to my precious Chocolate lab who would be 10 years old in October. I don't want to ever say goodbye but I would be selfish when it is time because he is in pain. I hate the big C word. He has had a very, very good life with me and my husband and has been to most places that some humans have never been to. I pray for all the owners who are going through a tough time with a beloved pet.

    Reply

• June 11, 2008 by Kati C.

  A few years ago, my family and I lost our beloved Labrador to brain cancer. Before he died, my family and I spent a few thousand dollars to try to save him. Unfortunately, the treatments did not work and he ended up passing away. Looking back, I would have not done anything differently. If the money gave us more time with him and kept him as comfortable as he could have been under the circumstances, then I consider it money well spent.

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• June 18, 2008 by Brenda Lynch

  I don't believe in spending lots of money to keep an animal alive. They don't want to be picked and poked at either, it's not natural. There comes a time when we all need to let go. I recently put my 16 1/2 year old friend for life to sleep. She was the greatest dog, but it was time to let her go. I feel I did the right thing and I will miss her for the rest of my life.

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  • June 20, 2008 by Ellen Fisher

    When we give our hearts to a pet, we must remember that it is a different intelligence and usually a shorter life than ours. The willingness to accept these facts and adjust our behavior appropriately is part of genuine love. We had a dachshund who dislocated his spine and became paralyzed when only 3 years old. Treatment involved driving him several hours to a university with specialists who could do the necessary operation-- flying him there would have been more damaging for him. The operation was a success at a few thousand dollars and we drove up to get him and joyously took him back into our lives. Two years later, the same thing happened. This time we had him put down. We realized there was no way to tell how often this could happen, and that it was unfair to the animal to put him through such trauma more than once. This was my husband's first dog, and it was a particular anguish to see the forlorn little boy inside the grown man when his confidant was gone. Nevertheless we felt we handled it right, and had to accept the inevitable grief without swearing never to have another dog.

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    • October 23, 2009 by ATAcosta

      Just yesterday I had to say goodbye to Charles, my little feline companion for the past 15 years. Lack of an income only allowed me to take him to a vet once this year. The kind vet said he had all the classic signs of hyperglycemia and he appeared to be in an advanced stage at only 5 lbs. Little Charles has gone through the tough times with me and even when I was turned down for a room because no pets were allowed, I refused to find him another home so that I could have one. Tonight I am missing him very much, his little meow's speaking to me "whatcha eating?" and "can I have some?" or "hey, pet me" or "I'm tired when are you going to bed so I can get some sleep?" I believe that when you adopt an animal into your family you are responsible for their well being and if they get ill or injured, God gives us the wisdom as to when to let go. I spent hundreds of dollars at the vets on Charles in his "hay day" when he'd come home with scratches or bites. Thank God I had a good income in those days. And don't tell him this, but I was originally a dog lover! And now He's wherever His Creator takes those non-human friends that we were blessed to have had in our lives.

  • February 25, 2009 by janet Hwilka

    Brenda, I know just how you feel. I had a red poodle for 18 years and on July 5th, 2008, I had to have her put to sleep. Like you, I knew when it was time. I miss Penny so much and I loved her dearly. I know I did the right thing and you did too.

    Reply

  • March 3, 2009 by Dawn Alsager

    I couldn't have said it better myself.

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  • March 7, 2009 by Karen Wilson

    We just found out our Pough has cancer. We can go & have another test run to find out how to treat him in his final days but I don't want to put him through any more. It is hard for him to get up and walk and I don't want him to have a lot of pain. Do we put him to sleep now or wait until later. I am lost.

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    • March 14, 2009 by Heather Clough

      Hi Karen - I do know exactly what you're going through. I've gone through it more than once, the most recent, just a few months ago with my 17 year old greatest-cat-in-the-world :), and I know I'll have to face that most difficult decision many more times in the future, not just with the cat and dog I have now, but with every other "family member with fur" who enters my life. I KNOW HOW HARD IT IS, but you must consider quality of life. Pough is almost 16, which is pretty good for a Husky - you've obviously taken excellent care of your boy. :) If it were me, I'd find out from the vet how far along the cancer is and what actions can be taken to treat it - if treatable, you'll have to way out your options, financially, but most importantly, how will the treatment affect Pough? Aggressive treatment on a 16 year old animal is going to be rough on his little, old body. Aggressive treatment (blood transfusions, etc) was the only option with my cat and I decided I did not want to put him through all of that, especially knowing it would just be prolonging the inevitable and he would not be comfortable. If the cancer's too far along and the only option is to put Pough on pain killers to make him more comfortable, I would try the pain killers for a few days and if he responds well to them, that's great, but if not, that would tell me it's time to let go, even as much as it hurts. We have to give them the best life possible and that includes loving them so much that we won't allow them to hurt and suffer - especially out of our own selfishness of wanting to keep them with us and at the expense of their quality of life. It's a sad fact that animal lives are shorter than human lives, but as a little boy who had to say good-bye to his 10 year old dog once said, "People are born so that they can learn how to live a good life, like loving everybody all the time and being nice. Well, dogs already know how to do that, so they don't have to stay as long". My heart and thoughts go out to you and Pough - I am so sorry. And when the time comes, just remember that you've given him the best life possible and he does know how much you love him. He knows. :)

    • May 17, 2010 by jackie

      i fell bad for dogs and what they have to go in all this pain because people hurt them doint take care of them i just feel bad.

  • April 25, 2009 by Donna Per_gin

    I have pets, and I pay a reasonable amount for their care. I will not let them suffer. But if I am faced with a medical bill over a certain pre-determined amount (mine is about $400 per incident) I will quickly and humanely let the animal go. I also do not take in more animals than I can afford. Please spay and neuter your pet. Chickens should be eaten and not treated for cancer. Please be realistic.

    Reply

    • April 23, 2010 by Anne S.

      that is only YOUR opinion.

      i know people who treasure their pet chickens as much as any other pet.

  • June 19, 2009 by renee Coltson

    Dear Brenda, Very conscious, we should always put the welfare of our pet's before I need to hang on. Throughout my life, i have had the pleasure, joy and blessings of many pets. The suffering is difficult and when weighing out medical care or allowing the pet to pass perhaps with some humane assistance, I will always choose what is best for the comfort, grace and ease of the animal. I do not think these medial treatments are necessarily the most humane way to go, most often they are not. Yes it gives us (the caretaker) some more time with our beloved pet, but one must ask if it is in the best interest of our friend to prolong their physical life.

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  • February 6, 2010 by Fred Suza

    But what if your Dog was a ten year old dog with treatable cancer. $7000 later, treatment gave him an additional 5 years of normal life and we never looked back at the money we spent.

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    • August 27, 2010 by alyssa

      that is a bad thing to do to a dog.they r domb as they can be to treat a dog that way u r right

  • March 9, 2010 by Helen Gasdaglis

    I agree with you Brenda. I am a senior and I have both a dog and cat. The cat is now going to be 15 in April and I spent $1100.00 on getting his teeth pulled. I really am on a very tight budget, but I maxed out my credit cards, etc to have the oral surgery done. But if anything else comes up, I cannot afford to pay for it. I feel bad but I also have to be realistic. I love the cat, especially since my husband chose him and the cat was his. I do my very best in keeping all shots, etc up, but anything else major I just can no longer afford. But most importantly, I do not want either of my friends suffering.

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• June 23, 2008 by neysa brown

  Not long ago one of my dogs broke three of her toes when she jumped off the porch to avoid being stepped on by my dad. My dad took Shadow to the nearest animal hospital because he thought she had broken something. The people there X-rayed Shadow's leg and put a splint on it. I'm not real sure how much it cost but I think it was like $150 or $175. Everything seemed ok until my dad started to smell something. My dad said it smelled like an infection. So dad took Shadow back to the "vet". We found out that the splint had cut into Shadow pit and got infected. The vet told dad what he could do and the cost but it was to much for us to aford. Dad asked the vet if he would take her but he wouldn't so dad told him to put her down. Dad was in the waiting room waiting for Shadow's body when one of the assistants came out and said that she would take Shadow if the offer was still open, it was. So Shadow got the care she needed and a good home that would be able to get her the medical care she that need. When dad got home all of our other dogs, we breed chihuahuas, were looking for Shadow when they didn't see her they knew something had happened. Angel, Shadow's mom, was worried, upset, and depressed because that was her baby but she's starting to forget. A lot of people would think that Angel would have forgotten in a day or two but she still isn't quite over it. Please forgive me for adding parts that are not really needed but I thought that it would help you to understand what happened.

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  • March 6, 2009 by Aletha

    I am thinking about getting a Chihuahua but my husband has Alzheimer’s and the dog doesn’t seem friendly towards him. Should I get the one year old dog or not? I don’t know.

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    • March 23, 2009 by Elizabeth

      No. I wouldn't get the dog. You can always go to a shelter and find another dog in-need as a companion. :) One that will at least get along with your hubby.

    • March 28, 2009 by A. White

      Sometimes people with this dreaded disease are frightened of things they took in stride during their earlier years. It's a hard decision; but I’m sure you will weigh what is best for both. Good luck.

  • April 6, 2009 by Tamara McCullough

    It sounds to me like you were extremely understanding of the whole situation, and your father was very compassionate and wise in his decisions. I'm glad it worked out so well for you. It seems to me that the vet should have paid for any treatment that became necessary as a result of a splint and cast that he applied! Thanks for adding the parts that you thought might be "unnecessary" -- it made a great story!

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  • April 6, 2009 by Tamara McCullough

    Very well said! I like rats, too. And they are intelligent - much more so than hamsters, gerbils or guinea pigs!

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  • May 11, 2009 by Marla McLuckie

    Isn't it interesting?? People can breed dogs and sell them for ungodly amounts of money while millions of animals die in shelters due to over population. But then people can't "afford" to treat a dog's infected foot that was probably caused by neglect? This sounds like a 'Typical mill breeder' mentality - are dogs disposable? Disgusting....

    Reply

    • April 18, 2010 by ruby

      Well let me tell you about my little Elmo: A shitzu loving and very smart 6 yrs old.He was taken to the vet because he was feeling tired and did not run with his tail up like a fan also bowel movements and voiding was out of order . The amounts and consistancies.I took Elmo to a vet and i was given meds and not either time did this so called Dr take his b/P or listen to his heart. The vet actually only gave me meds for Elmo..After 2 months there was no sign of his getting better.! med this Dr told me was what is given to humans (a sulphur tablet) After no sign of Elmo getting better ,He was taken to a reliable Dr in Appleton Wi at which point Elmo was diagnosed with liver failure ,kidney complications tumors were detected internally and a very bad heart condition.the 1st thing i had noticed was that Elmo was bloated ,but only then i began to think something was wrong ,After that the other things happened and i might add very quickly I took him to a local Vet who did absolutely nothing for him .His appetite had not decreased ..Well anyway It was sad !

  • May 19, 2009 by Angela

    If you can't afford a vet bill for an infection on a Chihuahua, you shouldn't be breeding them. This is exactly why people want backyard breeders to be shut down. If you'd been breeding the dogs, where was all the money from the puppies going? Certainly not back into helping those same dogs who were helping you line your pocket.

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    • May 24, 2010 by Linda

      Well said. Breeders are the BIGGEST part of our unwanted pet population. Anyone can buy a cute little puppy--what happens after? When they grow? When the kids are too busy? When the kids are born? When the divorce happens? When the job is lost? When the move is inevitable? Pets are for LIFE, people!! Wake up and stop being so ignorant!

  • January 22, 2010 by D. M. Anderson

    Well, here we go again. People should not have dogs, breed dogs or be in any way involved with the care of an animal unless they can afford to do so. It's much more responsible NOT to get one of these precious creatures than to have one and not take care of it.

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  • April 8, 2010 by cindy vlajnic

    see that is the problem and now the economy is so bad people are breeding dogs to make a buck ,This person says they didnt have the money for the medical care the pet needed ..So what are you doing breeding dog's , This is a bigger issue than the cost of medical care I personally think it is no ones business It is my money my choice and 90% of money that goes to charity sits in the pockets of the so called ceo and never gets to the needy . To all of you out there Stop Over breeding . Breeders follow up with your contract's demand ID from buyer's and iron clad contract's they will not breed the puppies. And as for all of you that put no value on the life of the greatest gift God has given us a protector a companion oh just go replace him .SHAME on you they would die to protect you but you would just throw him out with the bath water . Listen when something bad happens and it will be costly talk to your vet there are people out there that will help with the bill the vet may make payment plan's he may need someone to help with cleaning feeding etc a great experience for kid's and may reduce the bill our pets should be treated just as a child you do what you have to do to help them and if you need help doing it JUST ASK in this day and age of the internet if you reach out people will respond with help Look at all the good Rachel Ray and Ceasar Millian and Shorty. They are just a few I say step away and take a moment to calm before making a choice that will end the life of a innocent sick or hurt animal over money ! Think of the love they have given you And do your best to find away I think to many animals are to quickly put down because the people are pushed either pay or put it down I say speak to your vet can we sleep on it I assure you by morning you will have the courage to find away to pay and have your best friend back home and to all the Vet's out there make more of a afford to take the time to let the person seek away to find help with the bill make people aware if you are willing to barter for services if they can pay over time or if you are aware of organizations that help such as HEAL Humans enhancing animal lives , just to name one I have heard of .If you feel the vet is pushing you to quickly take your pet to another and make calls to animal enforcement agency they often know of local people or groups that will help you I write this in loving memory of my boy Max whom at 6years young had a inoperable brain tumor I would have mortgaged the house to save him worked three iob's but he had no chance but know money could I begged the Doctor the tumor was just to large to be removed and he passed away its been over a year and it still kills me to think of him not being here I would not ever put a animal down due to cost of a procedure EVER !! And know one should

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  • April 8, 2010 by cindy vlajnic

    I love you guy's you are 100% right I have all my life had dog's and cat's and treat them with the respect they deserve I would spend anything it coast as I would of a child We work for our money and We are right I hope one day that all of you out there that feel money is more important than the health and lives of our beloved companions and protector's that you someday wake up and see the world we live in watch the news and everyday you see another charity that has just taken the money I say and be damm sure you research any charity before you give And Vet's out there talk to your people before its to late have them set up savings plan for there pets when they are young so if something bad strikes they are prepared It seems funny to me that this question is even being discussed look how all the super rich flaunt there money most expensive clothes jewels cars etc then they come out and ask the rest of us to donate come on they have millions and they are asking the working class to give I say shut up and put YOUR money where your mouth is ! Take care of your pets as you would a child our pets give us unconditional love and protection and they deserve the best SO BE IT

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  • June 10, 2010 by Evie

    You ruin the name "Responsible Breeder". I hope to breed to better my chosen breed one day... After years of mentorship and finding a female who passes all genetic testing for diseases and is a great example of her breed. Because that's what good breeders do. Oh, and of course I'll have a lengthy adoption contract stating that her precious pups can't be bred unless they become AKC Champs, etc, etc.

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• June 23, 2008 by neysa brown

  I am 13 years old and I will be going into 8th grade when school starts but my comment is about my dog and my best friend Lady. Lady is no longer with me because in 3rd grade I made a choice to have her put down.Why? Because she had a slipped disk that was caused by some kids in my neighborhood who tried to break into the house behind my house. Lady, being a guard dog, barked a them so they threw rocks at her to shut her up. Lady loved walks so when she didn't act the way she normally did I knew something was wrong so I told my mom and dad. My mom and I took Lady to the vet and they told us that she had a slipped disk and she needed surgery or rest I can't remember but they gave us some pills to give to her. I think they were painkillers or something like that. Everything was going fine until Lady got use to the painkillers so they didn't have the same affect that they did before so she got worse. I couldn't stand to see her suffer so I told mom how I felt. So the next day, Thursday, we went to the vet one last time. I stayed by Lady from when we left the house to to when she took her last breath. Had I had enough money to pay for her surgery I would have done it in a heartbeat though if I could go back in time now with enough money for the surgery I don't think I would. It's not really because there are a ton of things that could go wrong but because if Lady was still alive I wouldn't have Sassy. Though I don't believe in reincarnations Lady and Sassy are alike in so many ways. So far nothing horrible has happened to Sassy so hopefully Sassy will live a long and happy life.

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  • April 23, 2009 by Shiloh chinn

    Dogs are more important then medical bills because they are Man's Best Friend.

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  • May 25, 2009 by Nicholas Struve

    I have a cat and a dog! Four years ago, I had a dog that we had to put down. It was May 13, 2005. I was broken - crying so hard.

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    • April 19, 2010 by OLGA

      ME TOO WELL DIDDENT PUT DOWN HE ATAMATICALLY DIED IN 2004 I WAS SAD WELL BYE!!

  • March 9, 2010 by katerina meows

    howd you get your and what kind is it? a boxer?

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• June 25, 2008 by Leigh F

  I have no problem with obtaining the best care you can afford for your pet but since when could only "rich" people own pets? We have a responsibility to love and care for our animals but not put so much money into pets that our children, spouses, homes and well being are put in jeopardy. When we are so stressed out about spending exorbitant money on "human grade" medical care, which will be willing to step up and adopt all the wonderful pets in shelters that so desperately need homes and someone to love? It should not be considered "inhumane" to say good-bye to a beloved pet when they let you know they are suffering. We had the vet come to our home to peacefully let our dog Elton rest after a reasonable fight with cancer. It was not worth seeing him suffer. It was a good decision and I would recommend home euthanasia when appropriate. Elton was calm, in his own bed and surrounded by the people he loved and loved him. Pets require time, love and care for their natural lives - if you can afford more care and the animal is not suffering greatly. If not, help keep another animal from spending another lonely night in a shelter kennel. It is a heart breaking decision to euthanize a beloved pet but one we must often face. I have seen animals suffer way too long because the owner didn't have the courage and compassion to say good-bye. That's my opinion after working at an animal shelter and seeing so many healthy animals put to sleep. Don't make people afraid to open their lives and hearts to a needy animal! That sweet little old lady on the fixed income would be a God send to that homeless, lonely animal on the street or in the shelter.

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  • May 26, 2009 by Christina V.

    I agree with Leigh F. I adopted my now 10-year-old Molly a little over 4 years ago. Seven months ago, she developed diabetes, and it has been an ongoing battle to stabilize this disease. Now she has developed Addison's disease. My family and I have spent close to $7,000 on her to try to make her comfortable, but I see it is not working. It's too heartbreaking to see her suffer. I made a vow when I decide to adopt my dog that I would not let her suffer, but to put her down to let her rest. I know not one dog can replace my molly, but I plan to adopt again from a shelter.

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• June 28, 2008 by amber

  Honestly, if you love your pet to death and want to try and save its life, even if that means spending thousands of dollars, then by all means, go for it and good luck to you. It's a person’s own opinion that really matters in these kinds of situations. It's hard to let go of someone/something close to you. I also think that if you have tried to save your pet, had not yet succeeded and he/she is suffering a great deal, then it might be time to pull the plug on that strong bond, for the animal’s sake. Animals are a part of our world as well as us human beings. They may not talk; walk on two feet; or eat from the dinner table, but they are in this world for a reason and we should be spending money to help take care of them rather then buying expensive cars and unnecessary luxuries in general. As a pet owner or just someone from the general public: You choose what's right.

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• June 29, 2008 by Debbie

  Most people who have pets don't know that they can get pet insurance to offset the cost if your pet gets injured, ill, or just needs routine shots and exams. I have pet insurance on all my pets. It’s around 30 bucks a month and it is so worth it. It even covers cancer treatments if they need it. You pay upfront and then you are reimbursed within 2 weeks the difference of what is covered. The company I like and use is VPI.

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  • April 17, 2010 by Brad

    I use VPI too, but my pets insurance it 62.09/month. You must have a younger pet than me. I don't know, if it's cheaper, for cat insurance that it is, for dog insurance.

    You're absolutely correct about people, not knowing about it. I just happened to notice a pamphlet one day in my Vet.'s office, but by that time my pooch Candy was almost 3 years old. Luckily, she had no major health issues at that time, or now for that matter. Knock on wood.

    The pet insurance I had gotten back then was Petcare unfortunately. I didn't know about VPI yet. They seem to be the best one, since they don't put lifetime limits on illnesses, or injuries for pets. Petcare had a lifetime coverage of 5 grand/illness. I just didn't trust that to cover her the way, that I wanted her to be.

    I sure think they could do a better job, of letting people know about health insurance for pets.

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    • August 8, 2010 by elsie

      well i heard some of those pet insurance don't pay like they say they do, So do they pay for shots, too?

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