On average, an emergency exam costs $100-$200, and an overnight stay can cost $1,000-$2,000. And, this may or may not include diagnostic tests. To help make sure you’re as prepared as possible, we’ve put together some information to help you know what to expect and how to save for a rainy day proactively.
Emergency veterinarians specialize in treating acute or life-threatening injuries and illnesses in animals. These vets typically work within veterinary hospitals or emergency clinics but often consult with general practice veterinarians.
In some locations, the general practice vet, when working after business hours or on holidays, qualifies as the emergency vet.
The cost of an emergency vet visit varies due to several factors, like location, animal species, breed, size, and the emergency.
So, how much is an emergency vet visit? Let’s break down the general cost of treatment.
When your pet has an emergency, you will likely need to make a payment or a credit card deposit for them to receive care. The staff at the emergency room should be able to help you navigate your options, but here are some of the most common ways to pay for your pet’s treatment.
Pet insurance is a growing category, and many mainstream insurance companies are starting to offer it. Like the health insurance you have, there are different plans, but you can expect to pay a monthly or annual premium as well as a deductible.
The amount of your deductible and the reimbursement you’ll receive can vary between plans and the insurance company you choose. So, you may want to do some research before purchasing to ensure you understand what and how much the plan covers.
It’s important to purchase pet insurance early on in pet ownership because any pre-existing condition may not be covered. Lemonade is a great option that caters to your needs.
If you don’t want to pay the premiums associated with health insurance or your pup isn’t eligible to be covered for any reason, you may consider building an emergency fund and adding to it regularly.
Emergencies (and even routine medical needs like dental cleanings) can be costly. Preparing for whatever life throws at you will prevent you from having to make big decisions based on the funds available.
Care Credit is a financing option that will allow you to pay off the balance from your pet’s care over time. This way, the vet’s office will have the funds needed to cover your pet’s emergency care and you won’t be facing a huge mountain of debt all at once.
However, you must qualify for Care Credit based on your credit score. If you qualify, you will be approved for a certain amount of money which you will need to pay off in a certain time to avoid a high interest rate.
Some veterinary practices may allow you to pay a deposit for your pet’s emergency care, and then pay the remaining balance over time. This is becoming less common as many veterinary offices face clients who skip out on payments. If you don’t pay your bill, then the veterinary hospital will likely send you to collections.
No matter how conscientious you are as a pet owner, emergency vet visits can happen so it’s best to be as prepared as you can. Having a plan in place will help you to feel calm and in control while your pet is getting the best medical care possible. Remember that the medical staff is doing the best they can to help your pet be kind and patient with them.
We know how scary pet emergencies can be and the difficulty a pet owner may have in determining what constitutes an emergency and what can wait. It’s best to be cautious and seek professional medical help via a telehealth consultation or an emergency vet clinic visit.
However, these are just a few of the signs that your pet should be taken to a vet immediately.
If your dog has consumed a toxin, poison, or item that they’re allergic to, vets will try to induce vomiting to get the substance out of their system. If that doesn’t work, and all options are exhausted, a gastric lavage may be the best way to help them.
These procedures require traditional routine diagnostics, blood work, x-rays, and more, as well as the anesthetic and oxygen therapy used during the procedure. While the exact cost for you will depend on several factors, you can expect to pay $1,500-2,500.
Veterinary costs will vary depending on your location and the number of vet practices in the area. Plus, your pet’s size, breed, and health needs will also play into the final cost you owe.
The type of stitch that your dog receives will ultimately determine the cost. Traditional sutures and dissolving sutures tend to be of similar cost, whereas staples may cost less. However, you must also pay for an exam fee, anesthetic, the procedure and bandage material, and any follow-ups. In total, this could be anywhere from $800-1,000+.
This all depends on your dog’s age and health! Puppies need to see the vet once a month until they are 4-5 months old. Adult dogs (1-7 years) usually only need to go once for annual visits (depending on your pet’s overall health), and senior dogs (8+ years) should be seen twice a year.
More often than not, emergency vet visits may cost more simply due to the urgency of the situation that brings you there. While the cost can be slightly higher, the important thing is getting your dog care as soon as you can. Emergency facilities are there exactly for that reason.
