Responding to public commentary on the cost of veterinary care

The popular personal financial counsellor and author Scott Pape, also known as The Barefoot Investor, was recently asked about the cost of veterinary services in his monthly newsletter. 

The question and Scott’s response is copied below.  

The AVA has responded to Scott, addressing the commentary made. The AVA response explains the factors contributing to veterinary care costs, highlighting the lack of government support compared to human healthcare, the challenges of treating breeds with exaggerated features, and the negative impact of media portrayals of veterinary costs on public perception and the mental health of veterinary professionals.  

The AVA regularly responds to similar commentary, with the aim to improve public understanding and media portrayal of the value and true costs of veterinary care.  

The AVA will continue to advocate for the profession, supported by members and the broader veterinary sector. A helpful resource, The Cost of Veterinary Care – Putting it in Perspective: A Response to Public Comments about “Exorbitant Vet Bills” is available on the AVA website. 

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The Sixty Thousand Dollar Sausage Dog  
  
Hi Scott, 
I have two mini dachshunds (sausage dogs), nine and eleven years old, and they mean the world to me. I’ve always had pet insurance with 80% cover up to $30,000 per year. One dog recently needed two surgeries costing $30,000. Three months later, another surgery for an intestinal blockage cost another $30,000. Also dachshunds can require spinal surgery for a disease called IVDD and both my dogs have that disease and are at risk, and the cost can be as much as $23,000 for surgery!  
  
The worst part is that Aussie pet insurers are known for jacking up prices based on your dog’s age and claims made. So now I’m paying $625 a month for two insurance policies. But can I afford not to? I have $20,000 in savings (redraw available on home loan) but if needed for vet costs I could be left with nothing very quickly. The lines are blurred for me out of fear and love for my dogs. No one would choose to end their family member’s life over money, no matter the cost, if they can help it. Please advise. 
Gina 
  
Hi Gina, 
You’re talking to a dog person. In fact, just this week we got Lucky, a brand-new kelpie puppy sheepdog-in-training. The kids are so excited – Bluey ain’t got nothing on Lucky.    
  
I have no doubt Lucky will become a very much loved member of our family. However, she is not a human – nor will she live forever. And that’s why there is absolutely zero chance I’d spend $30,000 on an operation for her.  
  
Gina, you need to look after your own financial needs first.  
  
That doesn’t mean you don’t love your dogs. On the contrary, it could be the kindest thing you could do (especially for older, sicker dogs). So when the time comes – which it will in the next five or so years – you need to be strong enough to put them out of pain, and cherish the memories you shared. And then, when the time is right, get another dog (and hopefully a new vet with less bite).  Scott Pape