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Marc Abraham Comments on Rising Cost of Pet Prescriptions Putting Strain on Pet Owners

New research reveals that over half of vets say that they have had to put down cats and/or dogs because their owners could not afford the cost of treating their conditions
Finance, Home, Lifestyle - 6 April 2010   Download IconContent available for download:  
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  News Hooks:

43% of households own a pet, accounting for around 23 million animals in the UK and the latest research reveals that vets bills are increasing by around 12% annually with even flea treatments now costing between £30 and £74, depending on the type of pet.

56% of vets say that they have had to put down cats and/or dogs because their owners could not afford the cost of treating their conditions over the past year. 88% claim that owners have rejected a recommended course of treatment or operation for financial reasons.

Treatments for long-term pet illnesses such as diabetes or gastroenteritis have also increased in cost (57% and 65% respectively) and can be expensive over an animal’s lifetime. Some owners resort to reducing the recommended dose they give their pet in order to prolong the life of the medication.

. Introduction:

Almost half of households own a pet but with vets bills rising by around 12% a year, the latest research reveals that vets are becoming concerned over the number of pets being put down and the number of recommended treatments being rejected for solely financial reasons. Vets visits are a must with any pet but many owners don’t realise that their vet can also provide prescriptions for some pet medications which can then be purchased outside of their veterinary surgery. These medications cover worming and flea treatments as well as long-term prescriptions.

Why are so few owners aware that they can get pet medications with a valid prescription from their vet despite the legislative changes made in 2005?

Joining us in the studio is Veterinary Surgeon, Marc Abraham.

. Suggested Questions:

Approximately how many pets are there in our area?

What are the implications of rising vets bills for owners of animals that are ill?

How does this impact on owners who are caring for pets with long-term illnesses such as diabetes and gastroenteritis?

When is it acceptable to get medicines outside of a veterinary practice and when do owners need to ensure they take their pet to the vet?

What can vets do to raise awareness?

Where can we find out more information?