Studies show that the yearly cost of basic care for your dog is just under $2,000; or more, depending on your area. This is, of course, limited to basics like food, vet check-ups, grooming, and other necessities. Most of us go well beyond this amount and aren’t ashamed to admit it. Ok, maybe when we have a weak moment and buy the Bumblebee Halloween costume that they’ll hate wearing, but other than that, we’re proud to give our dogs the best care possible. 

While money doesn’t always equal better care, it certainly comes into play when disaster strikes. You can feed your dog the less expensive kibble, you can take them to the clinic if money is an issue for vet care, but when it’s time to go to the emergency room, money will be a factor. 

Pet Emergency Hospitals Are Expensive

It may seem cold, but many animal ER’s only accept cash. Those that take credit may need cash up front, or charge extra for using a credit card. 

In an increasingly paperless world, having several hundred (or thousand) dollars cash on hand isn’t always feasible. A broken leg, internal problems, or emergency surgery can cost $3,000 or more. Many ER’s use their own pharmacy, so the medications will also be extremely expensive. 

• The visit itself will run you between 90 and 200 dollars.
• Diagnostic tests such as x-rays, or blood work, can run between 200 and 500 dollars. 
• Overnight stays, IV treatments, and emergency medications can easily soar over the thousand-dollar mark. 

 How to Get Emergency Vet Care for Your Dog or Cat without Cash

If those numbers scared you, you’re not alone. No pet owner wants to think about taking their furbaby to the ER. But, accidents happen, and getting your dog the best vet care as quickly as possible can save their life. 

If you’d rather avoid draining our bank account, or being caught with a sick puppy and no cash, you should absolutely invest in pet insurance. 

Even the most stringent ER’s will accept pet insurance, even if only partially. Some will require money up front, but that will be a fraction of what you’d pay without insurance.

Most insurance companies, like Pawsome Pet Insurance, cover both dogs and cats. There are different plans, and coverage and prices vary, but most are extremely affordable, and will absolutely save you thousands over the long haul. Plus, you can rest assured that no matter what your little friend gets herself into, you will have her patched up quickly without going broke.