The Cost of Compassion
 
Why does veterinary care seem so expensive?
Root River Veterinary Center is not only your pet’s general physician, but also its surgeon, radiologist, cardiologist, neurologist, dermatologist, dentist and pharmacist. The cost of care includes equipment maintenance, as well as continuing education and salaries for qualified staff. These costs are necessary to provide the level of care your pet deserves.
An investment in your pet’s veterinary care is an investment in a relationship with a veterinarian that will ensure quality care throughout your pet’s lifetime. Every pet owner has different ideas on what is acceptable pet health care. We at Root River Veterinary Center can guide you through the health options available for your pet.
 
How can I save money on veterinary costs?
Avoiding the need for emergency care and being proactive in preventative care can save money over the lifetime of a pet.
 
~ Preventative medicine helps reduce medical costs in both humans and pets.

~ Regular physical examinations, current vaccines, and regular parasite control help prevent disease.

~ Avoiding dangerous situations through obedience training, leash use, indoor lifestyle, and keeping pets away from toxic products can help owners avoid significant cost associated with a pet emergency.
 
Why shouldn’t I purchase vaccines and medications from catalogs and over the Internet?
A pharmaceutical purchase from Root River Veterinary Center is an investment in a business that will provide long-term health care for your pet. No Internet pharmacy cares as much about your pet as we do. Some online pharmacies and catalogs represent legitimate, reputable pharmacies, but others may be fronts for businesses operating in violation of the law.
 
Many drugs can be dangerous to your pet if not properly prescribed and monitored by you veterinarian. Most online medications are within 3 to 5% of the cost charged by Root River Veterinary Center. The savings are minimal.
 
An additional consideration is that many products purchased through Internet pharmacies are not guaranteed by the pharmacy or the manufacturer.
 
I want to have my pet spayed or neutered but am concerned about cost. What can I do?
Pet owners can prepare for the cost of spaying or neutering their pet by getting an estimate from Root River Veterinary Center at the time they adopt their pet and setting aside an appropriate amount each week until they elect to have the procedure preformed. Also, a routine spay or neuter is not an emergency procedure and can be preformed at any time that is convenient. Spay and neuter procedures are major surgeries for your pet.
 
Why can’t veterinarians advise, diagnose and/or prescribe medications over the phone and save me money and time?
For legal reasons, veterinarians cannot prescribe medications for pets they have not examined. To provide the highest level of care, provide and an accurate diagnosis, and plan a successful course of treatment, the doctors at Root River Veterinary Center need to physically examine your pet.
 
How much should I anticipate initially spending for veterinary care for a puppy or kitten? Or on an annual basis thereafter?
Puppies and kittens need a variety of vaccines and medications, depending on their age and health status. Your pet will also need to be spayed or neutered at an appropriate age and treated for any unforeseen health problems that may come up. Feel free to talk with the staff at Root River Veterinary Center for an estimate for these services.