Saving on Pet Care --from 9News, Denver, CO

[weezyNollie]

For many people, pets are part of the family. Americans spend nearly $36 billion a year on everything from catnip to doggy daycare. But the biggest expense comes when a pet gets sick.

An annual visit to the veterinarian alone can run more than $100. And if your pet is hurt or gets sick, the costs can quickly skyrocket.

Advances in veterinary medicine mean that more treatments are now available. Consumer Reports' Amanda Walker says these advances mean vet bills can add up even faster.

"It's estimated that on average, cat owners spent more than $500 on medical care last year, while dog owners spent even more, nearly $800," says Walker.

Consumer Reports says you can save by choosing your vet carefully.

Get recommendations from friends with pets. Then compare prices for a few common procedures. And don't necessarily choose the vet with the lowest prices. That could mean the vet is cutting corners.

Another money-saving tip: Don't skip annual checkups. Your vet may spot trouble early before treatment becomes costly.
If your pet does need surgery, Consumer Reports says to get at least two estimates for the procedure and be sure to ask about follow-up treatment.

Consumer Reports says to shop around on medicine, too.
"If you need a prescription drug, you may be able to find it at your local pharmacy, or a less expensive generic version may be available," says Walker.

Pet insurance might seem like a good way to defray vet costs, but Consumer Reports says unless you have a breed that is prone to lots of chronic problems, pet insurance generally won't save you any money at all. And it may even cost you more than the vet bills.

With this advice, keeping your pet healthy doesn't have to take a big bite out of the family budget.



Most of us know this type of stuff.. but it's good for those that need some advice