Effects of the recession on the care of animals

General maintenance and preventative health care

As vets we have noticed that many pet owners are less able to keep up with regular preventative health care for their companions. This extends to the choices of feed they provide for their animals, and the frequency of regular treatments such as flea prevention.

Some ways to help keep costs under control could include:

Consider changing your pet's diet

• Feeding the correct quantity of a good quality dried food to your pet can significantly reduce the amount you spend over a few months compared to cheaper tinned or sachet foods, possibly up to £300 per year.
• Feeding a well-balanced diet has been shown to significantly reduce the likelihood of health problems.

Preventative health care plans

These can help you to spread the cost of routine health care for your pet. For a small monthly direct debit payment, with our Gold Club your pet will benefit from:

• Annual vaccinations
• Ongoing flea and worm prevention
• Regular health checks
• Discounts on some of our other products and services.

Treatment of your pet’s illness or injury

We have also noticed that some pet owners are more reluctant to come to the surgery than they used to be, possibly fearing a large bill. In many cases it might seem sensible to try treatment at home first, but often a delay in visiting the vet may lead to worsening of the condition.

Sometimes we have to do more drastic and invasive treatments in these circumstances, involving more risk for the animal as well as more expense for the owner.

Ways to reduce unexpected bills or get help with payment:

Good general health care

This will reduce the chances of illness and should include:

• A consistent good quality diet
• Sensible and regular exercise
• Vaccinations, flea and worm control

Call us for advice

All our vets and nurses are highly experienced and can give free advice over the phone.

Planning ahead

• Pet insurance - for a relatively small monthly premium any unexpected bill for medical or surgical problems can be recovered from the insurer (though most insurers do have an excess, which they deduct from the payment). Lots of different policies are available - we recommend Petplan, but can also advise on general insurance queries.
• If you prefer, simply set aside a small amount each week or month in an emergency fund, which we hope you won’t need!

Unwanted animals

Nationwide there has been an increase in the number of animals that are being abandoned. There are several charities such as the Dog’s Trust, and Cats Protection, that can help if you can no longer afford to look after your pet.

If you are thinking of getting a pet in the near future, there are many animals that currently need homes, and it is worth contacting these and other charities.