- April 24, 2024
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Some people resort to euthanizing because pet care is too costly
Dear Editor:
Here in our area, we have a very sad situation. If anyone wonders why people are reluctant to adopt new pets from our very excellent shelter, they need to know about the price of vet care these days. The costs of even diagnostic visits to the vet are astronomical. Many times, people must resort to euthanizing their pets because they cannot afford the high costs of diagnostic studies and treatment. Even euthanization is at a very high cost.
Treatment is outlandishly expensive and oftentimes still results in loss of the pet. Is it any wonder that wonderful pets are left at the shelter? So many people simply cannot afford medical care for their beloved pets. So, people are without great companions, and beautiful animals are not adopted.
Does anyone have any suggestions for how reasonable vet care can be gotten in Flagler County? I just lost one lovely friend, and am terrified that my other two shelter pets will become ill.
Shirley Gibbs
Palm Coast
Editor’s Note: Dr. Gary Shelton, of Shelton Veterinarian Clinics in Bunnell and Elkon, is an ally of the Flagler Humane Society. He answered Ms. Gibbs’ question in this way:
“Medical care for humans and veterinary care can be expensive, as you have said. Thankfully, veterinary care is affordable to nearly every household for many reasons. Many local veterinarians offer payment plans if necessary and will carefully discuss all options if asked; even homeopathic options now exist. Veterinarians have the best interest for your pet in mind; that’s why we are in the business! Also, a payment option called Care Credit is available for those beloved pets and there is no interest rate for up to six months.
“The Flagler Humane Society does support low-income families by providing subsidized, low-cost and even free spay/neuter services. Low cost countywide spay/neuter vouchers are available to residents of Flagler County. Pit bull or pit mixes (most common breeds entering shelters nationwide) can be spayed/neutered and microchipped for free due to a large PetSmart Charities Grant awarded (sending in 2014). Also, from 1 to 3 p.m. the first Saturday of each month, at the Humane Society, low-cost vaccinations and microchipping are offered for all residents. The Humane Society even offers owner-requested euthanasia for a greatly discounted rate for those who can't afford to have this done elsewhere. The Humane Society has even had cases where animals were brought in due to a medical condition, but then we realized the pet could be cured for little or no cost. The Humane Society then offers to assist and/or take the pet from the current owner to help adopt out.
“We have just started a program where stray (feral) cats can be sterilized, again for free, in Flagler Beach. We even offers a pet food bank to help families in need feed their pets until they get on their feet. We realize times can get difficult and we want to help in any way possible.
“There are many caring and compassionate veterinarians offering low-cost services to families in need and as a veterinarian in both private practice and at the Humane Society, I can say that affordable care is available to those who do their homework. While advanced diagnostic tests and specialists continue to cost more, there are many routine tests, procedures, and medications that are very affordable — keeping in mind that preventative measures such as monthly Heartguard, vaccinations and good nutrition can be a key factor in keeping pets from needing costly procedures.
“I can say the future is great for pet owners, as more reliable medications and procedures become more affordable to those who value rescuing and saving the life of a homeless pet currently being housed at a shelter/rescue! Save a life: Adopt your next ppet from a shelter!”
