How Much Does An Emergency Vet Visit Cost?
The last thing you want to think about when your pet becomes sick or injured is how much it will cost to take them in to see the emergency vet. The truth is that it can be very expensive to take your pet to the emergency vet for an urgent visit.
A lot of people wonder, "how much does an emergency vet cost?" Well, to get real numbers, and real costs for what a trip to the emergency vet might cost, there are a number of variables to take into consideration.
For example, a pet that's having an allergic reaction or ate something they shouldn't would likely cost a lot less than a pet that requires emergency vet surgery. These types of emergency vet services are not hundreds of dollars, but thousands. That said, there are ways to reduce the cost of these expenses. So what is the average cost of an emergency vet visit for a pet? Many people who were interviewed shared information on their own emergency vet experiences and quoted the following:
After being hit by a vehicle, one emergency vet client's dog racked up $4,000
Another pet owner had three pets with emergency vet services over the years that cost them $5,000 each
One pup needed emergency vet services to have emergency surgery for bloat (a very severe condition) which cost $3,000
Why is it So Costly?
It seems that our pets are cheaper than us humans when we go to the emergency vet. However, especially when it's an emergency, the bill can quickly mount. It's not uncommon for animals in an emergency vet room to require more expensive tests and services. They might need to have bloodwork and X-rays taken. In some cases, they may also need IV medication. Keep in mind too that emergency vet prices can vary between cities. You can't take the below prices to the bank. However, it can create a general idea of what things might cost as a base line:
Diagnostics (i.e. radiographs, bloodwork, etc.): $200-$250 each
Prices range from $200 to $250 per pet
Outpatient treatment can start at $200
24 hour hospitalization (including IV fluids, meds, and more) prices start at $1,200
In many cases, dogs over 80 pounds that require emergency vet services are more costly because they require more fluids and medication. In other cases too, anesthesia and surgery can easily cost up to $3,000-$4,000 if there is an emergency. This could include things such as bloat or C-section.
How Can you Afford an Emergency Vet?
Many people have asked if emergency vet services consider the possibility of negotiating the price. It is possible to do this with human doctors so why not? Many emergency vets are unlikely to negotiate, at least not as much as you would like, but it never hurts to ask.
At the end of the day, emergency vets charge less than human doctors and they do still have to pay bills. In terms of inquiring about payment plans, this also seems unlikely. Because you only see an emergency vet when there is an immediate need, they are not able to build a relationship with you like your regular vet.
However, that is not the situation with Companion Veterinary & Urgent Care Center, who provides both emergency vet and wellness care services. Many emergency vets will recommend that owners communicate with their wellness care vet (if it's not the same vet) about their financial situation. They can work with you to find lower-cost alternatives that don't compromise your pet's health.
It is recommended that you keep up with your wellness visits, and that you consider (for any medications that apply), having them filled at human pharmacies. They may be more affordable.
Another option to help keep emergency vet services less costly would be to get pet insurance. Many would say that pet insurance is "a must" and well worth the money. In some cases, monthly premiums can come in at $59 per month, with a $500 deductible, and would also make meds are much cheaper.
Lastly, you can also apply for specialized credit like CareCredit or ScratchPay. CareCredit, specifically, is not only for your pet, but also for you. You can use it to finance your pet's medical expenses or your own dental or medical bills.
For more information on costs or best practices on how to bring your pet into our offices for emergency vet services, visit our website or call us directly: (941) 896-9420