Banfield's Pet Hospital

[ColColt]

Yesterday while I was out at PetSmart, like most of those around here, they have a Banfield's Pet Hospital either in the store itself or right adjacent to it. I talked with one of the DVM's yesterday about what all they did and told her about the possibility of me getting a Corgi before long and she suggested bring him by for a head to tail checkup. She further told me about what they were and gave me a brochure about their "Optimum Wellness Plan".

This plan seems to cover quite a bit of your dogs health care need to include vaccinations, exams, oral hygiene, eye care, skin and coat care, etc. This plan covers all sorts of things a vet would normally do and it even covers an EKG twice a year, all the shots needed and a host of other services.

The annual cost from what the brochure indicated is $431 or $1.18/day. That's a good deal it seems to me. Does anyone know about or have this plan available where you are and if so, what do you think of it?

http://www.banfield.net/health/owp.asp

[Jespah]

I did a similar thing with the dogs when they were pups. My vet's had packages that covered the first year - spay or nueter, vaccines, etc. I worked it out to a savings of 20%. I am not cheap, but I am frugal. I already get a multiple pet discount of 15%.

Any cost comparision is only going to be relative to what the costs are in your area David. I suggest you call 3 other vets that are close by and ask them to come up with an estimate for a year of care - tell them to call you back with it if they don't have a prepaid option they can quote right away. Also, ask if they have other Corgis being cared for in the practice.

Deb

[ColColt]

Deb, there are two vets close to me. One has been around since the ark was built and is only one mile exactly form me. The other is another half mile up the road from them and is more of a new place within the last two years. Banfields is also close (3.5 miles away). As for what experience they all have, I can only assume at least the older vets and Banfields would be a good choice.

I can easily go by and check the vet just below the house and talk with them about their facilities but, I've been in their before and it's clean and they don't push Science Diet or all the latest drugs on the market...sort of a holistic type vet. I could swing by their and the other place tomorrow after work as it's just a little ways further from the house. Perhaps they have a brochure like Banfield's. I'd just have to check with them. I just wasn't sure what the difference was between your standard veterinary office and Banfield's.

[Jespah]

I actually pay more at my vet's than the average vet office. It is a "hospital" and they have 6 vets. They are open 7 days a week and until 9:00 PM on weekdays. They use a higher protocol of drugs and anesthesia, so I am paying more - but I'm getting better access and care. I have been going there for over 20 years - with my cats until I got Riley. Although I am frugal, I don't mind paying more, if I know I am getting more.

It's good to know how many staff they have, their hours and other things that will be a benefit in the long run.

[ColColt]

This particular one is open 8-6pm M-Sat and till 5:00pm on Sunday. Fortunately, there is an Animal ER about four miles from here so all of this is very convenient and could be life saving at some point.

I have read some negative comments about Banfield's when I googled it earlier and although those comments were in different states, it makes you wonder about a large franchise such as this. I don't mind paying more for better service and care but, I don't want' to be ripped off because I didn't read the "small print" either. Hopefully they can be trusted to give what they claim and at the prices they display.

[corgimom]

Yesterday while I was out at PetSmart, like most of those around here, they have a Banfield's Pet Hospital either in the store itself or right adjacent to it. I talked with one of the DVM's yesterday about what all they did and told her about the possibility of me getting a Corgi before long and she suggested bring him by for a head to tail checkup. She further told me about what they were and gave me a brochure about their "Optimum Wellness Plan".

This plan seems to cover quite a bit of your dogs health care need to include vaccinations, exams, oral hygiene, eye care, skin and coat care, etc. This plan covers all sorts of things a vet would normally do and it even covers an EKG twice a year, all the shots needed and a host of other services.

The annual cost from what the brochure indicated is $431 or $1.18/day. That's a good deal it seems to me. Does anyone know about or have this plan available where you are and if so, what do you think of it?

http://www.banfield.net/health/owp.asp

David,

I agree with Deb and I would check those other vets and get quotes on what vaccinations cost as well as what a yearly exam costs. $431 seems a lot per year(but it depends on what that plan covers) but why would a dog need an EKG twice a year if the vet checks/listens to the heart and it sounds well - it just sort of sounds like a sales pitch to justify the yearly cost. I had one cat that had an EKG done, but he was in his senior years and was suffering from a heart condition; otherwise, none of my pets have never had one done - twice a year seems a bit much.

Also, what does eye, skin and coat care mean? When Cody or my other pets go in for an exam, he checks everything on them to make sure the pet looks and feels healthy - as far as oral hygiene, does that mean a thorough cleaning once a year(while under anesthesia) or something else. If you keep the dogs teeth clean by brushing and giving him other good things to chew on, he shouldn't need a vets teeth cleaning every year(but I know in some cases they may depending on the condition of his teeth when you get him and if he is prone to placque buildup)

Does this $431 cover any unexpected emergency expenses also(what were the host of other services?) - or is this just the basic stuff. Since this dog you are looking at is older, he should already have his vaccinations and then you would just be getting some yearly - what is your law there for how often rabies is given? Ours is every 3 years. I am always leary about sales pitches because obviously it is a "deal" for them also.

[ColColt]

In the past hour or so, Linda, I've googled Banfield's and you wouldn't believe the amount of negative comments and raves I've seen about this place. Enough for me to do a turn around and rethink about them. It all sounds so good and the price wasn't bad ( I thought) but, after reading some of the comments about Banfield's from all over the country, I think I may forgo them altogether in favor of your "standard" veterinarian practice down the street. They appear to be a colossal ripoff from the comments I've seen, which were too many just to be an isolated case.

I believe the laws here about rabies are the same as yours-three years. Banfields seem to want to vaccinate for various diseases a little too often for me in that they recommend twice a year, vaccines for, Parvo, distemper Leptospirosis, Giardia, Gorona, Lyme's, Bordetella, etc. That just seems a bit too much for me.

[corgimom]

In the past hour or so, Linda, I've googled Banfield's and you wouldn't believe the amount of negative comments and raves I've seen about this place. Enough for me to do a turn around and rethink about them. It all sounds so good and the price wasn't bad ( I thought) but, after reading some of the comments about Banfield's from all over the country, I think I may forgo them altogether in favor of your "standard" veterinarian practice down the street. They appear to be a colossal ripoff from the comments I've seen, which were too many just to be an isolated case.

I believe the laws here about rabies are the same as yours-three years. Banfields seem to want to vaccinate for various diseases a little too often for me in that they recommend twice a year, vaccines for, Parvo, distemper Leptospirosis, Giardia, Gorona, Lyme's, Bordetella, etc. That just seems a bit too much for me.


Twice a year for all of those ?- Bordetella(that depends on if you board him or he will be socializing a lot with other dogs)

The EKG is the one that confuses me - I have never heard of doing that, much less twice a year. But also you mentioned that it pays for exams - does the "small print" clarify what they mean by exams and How often? - they may say "exams", but then say once a year or twice a year maximum. A teeth cleaning under anesthesia where I live costs about $170 - so that is why I asked what their "oral care" covered. Keep reading and looking David, you are doing good, just don't want you to pay for things that you won't be needing

[ColColt]

From what the brochure says-

Distemper Parvo HA (2x)... I assume this means twice a year
Leptospirosis vaccination (2x)
Giardia vaccination (2x)
Lyme Disease vaccination (2x)
Bordetella vaccination (2x)

It does indicate that with the Optimum plan you get an EKG twice a year not to mention "comprehensive exams" twice a year. Those include Otoscopic, Rectal, Tonometry, Dental, Neurologic, Cardiovascular, Weight assessment, Coat and skin evaluation, Abdominal palpation, Urogenital and Pulmonary/lung evaluations.

I'm not sure about all this but, I didn't like all the negative comments I've found on the Internet about them.

[corgimom]

From what the brochure says-

Distemper Parvo HA (2x)... I assume this means twice a year
Leptospirosis vaccination (2x)
Giardia vaccination (2x)
Lyme Disease vaccination (2x)
Bordetella vaccination (2x)

It does indicate that with the Optimum plan you get an EKG twice a year not to mention "comprehensive exams" twice a year. Those include Otoscopic, Rectal, Tonometry, Dental, Neurologic, Cardiovascular, Weight assessment, Coat and skin evaluation, Abdominal palpation, Urogenital and Pulmonary/lung evaluations.

I'm not sure about all this but, I didn't like all the negative comments I've found on the Internet about them.


Someone can correct me if I am wrong, but adult dogs don't need all those vaccinations twice a year - It will be good to hear if anyone elses dog has had an EKG. Maybe if a dog had a heart murmur and they wanted to keep on top of it. My one current senior cat has a heart murmur and has never had an EKG(the vet can actually tell the "grade" of the murmur by just listening to it.) I guess I could ask for an EKG,, but I never have, nor has it been recommended.

They are listing each thing seperately, but lots of those things vets include anyway with annual check ups - listening to the heart, checking weight, feeling around the abdomin(for anything unusal) looking into eyes and ears and checking their skin and coat. What do they mean by Rectal(taking a temperature?, that is normal thing they do anyway) - the thing is, all these things are included in the cost of an annual Exam by lots of vets(just from what I have experienced on my end.) they make it sound very Technical which is their way of trying to appeal to the "buyer"

I would ask them what their "dental" covers - maybe a look in the mouth and some breath spray:LAUGH:

My last Pem who I adopted when she was around 2 always had bad teeth. She had 3 teeth extracted right after I adopted her and always needed yearly dental cleanings(but she didn't have a good start in life and her teeth weren't cared for by the original owner)


So they are basically saying for $431 you can two comprehensive exams twice a year with all that being done, plus vaccinations. Anything else unexpected would be extra, correct?

If you are still considering them David, call them and ask them what their Dental actually covers, why is an EKG needed twice a year and why are those vaccinations needed twice a year

[corgimom]

David,

I paid $130 for Cody's 1 year wellness exam and vaccinations. Rabies won't be due now for 3 years. This included the Heart worm test which also checks for Lyme disease. I don't give the Lyme vaccination to him. This cost did not include a dental cleaning(because he did not need one, nor did he have an Ekg) - now these are just figures for my area(which is more higher priced than some areas.

[mtoy]

Doesn't sound right to me either. Many vets are going to the new vaccination protocol - why give twice a year? It's just not good for the dogs. Try to find a (good) vet that charges a la carte, just for services rendered and not a separate office charge. That's what mine and a bunch more do here. When I bring a dog in for a shot they look the dog over to make sure it's healthy, in the mouth, heartbeat, everything. All for just the price of the shot, no office visit charge. When I called around for prices, nothing was inflated either, in fact, the price of the shot was the same as the place that charged for and office visit on top of that.

[ColColt]

I would ask them what their "dental" covers - maybe a look in the mouth and some breath spray

Looking back over the brochure, it's a little unclear what they actually do. They have a page that says at the top, "Wellness Starts in the Mouth". What Can you do Now?
*Feed your Pet mostly hard food.
*Give your friend safe, hard toys to chew.
*Brush your Pets teeth.
* Spray a Pet mouthwash into you Pet's mouth every day.

They further state that if problems are already there the signs are such and such. Then they say, "Our job is to find the specific problem, stop the pain, and take care of it". That's all they say about dental care. Under the Optimum Plan, as it's called, I only see under the Comprehensive Exam, "Dental Exam"-nothing about cleaning or if it's covered under the plan or something you pay extra for removing tarter or having teeth extracted.

In lieu of this, I may be better off just going to the local vet and talking with them. I think these chains or franchises can be a ripoff.

[corgimom]

Spray a Pet mouthwash into you Pet's mouth every day..

Well, I was right about one thing.:WINK:



They further state that if problems are already there the signs are such and such. Then they say, "Our job is to find the specific problem, stop the pain, and take care of it"

Right, how much extra is that - no mention that these "extras" are included in the cost.(which most likely isnt") Mouth/teeth exams are the norm with an annual wellness check up.(at least it should be) - any extra work required after that you will pay for out of your pocket(with most vets)


In lieu of this, I may be better off just going to the local vet and talking with them. I think these chains or franchises can be a ripoff.

Do you know anyone else with a pet that can also make a recommendation of a vet for you, or knows of the other vets you mentioned?

[ColColt]

Do you know anyone else with a pet that can also make a recommendation of a vet for you, or knows of the other vets you mentioned?

I had wanted to talk with owners of Corgis I had seen before at PetSmart getting their "do" for the weekend but, I could never find them. I had planned on asking where they took theirs but, they were probably out shopping somewhere and just dropped their dogs off for the day.

[corgimom]

I had wanted to talk with owners of Corgis I had seen before at PetSmart getting their "do" for the weekend but, I could never find them. I had planned on asking where they took theirs but, they were probably out shopping somewhere and just dropped their dogs off for the day.


Do you have a Humane Society in your County? They can often be a good source to get that information from also

[ColColt]

Oh, yes, we have one. The vet's place down the road about a mile has been there at least the 27 years that I've been here so, I assume they must be pretty reputable or they wouldn't still be there. I think I may go down there tomorrow after work and talk with them. Still, I wish I knew of some Corgi owners around here close to get some info about where they take theirs and why.

[corgimom]

Oh, yes, we have one. The vet's place down the road about a mile has been there at least the 27 years that I've been here so, I assume they must be pretty reputable or they wouldn't still be there. I think I may go down there tomorrow after work and talk with them. Still, I wish I knew of some Corgi owners around here close to get some info about where they take theirs and why.


Do you have a "County Kennel Club" - that would be a good place to start to talk to other dog owners - perhaps you will find some Corgi owners there. We have one vet(that I know of in our state) that specifically knows Corgis well (because she breeds them.) She is 70 miles from me.

[Dillydoodle]

ok, sorry i am late on this one, first thing is the (2x) might be a two series shot... the first time you do lyme disease shot it is actually a two part shot.. Dillon had first shot and then came back 4 wks later for the second part of that same lyme shot... so maybe the (2x) refers to the number of parts for a shot?

The other thing is that one of the vets i use has wellness "deals" and i find that they are often charging for things you dont really need.. for example the ekg thing ...what? why? you dont really need that i dont think. eyes? well that is part of an exam, teeth? you dont need to have them professionally done until they are a few years old at least...and if you are good about brushing you may never have to have it done...and somehow i dont believe that a real dental would be covered in that cost... my cat had her teeth done ( and yes had to have 4 teeth pulled) but the total was about $380... so somehow even without pulling teeth it is at least $200 i would guess and is not something that is needed annually. coat? what is coat care? do they wash and groom you dog for you? nope... so i really think it would be worth checking out the other vets. Older vets can sometimes be set in their ways , with older knowldge and are sometimes not up to date on some of the newer findings or newer treatments ... i know my old vet was very country doctor type and he really was stuck in 10 yr old medicine... i had to dump him after he refused to work with me with my diabetic kitty when i wanted to home test her and change her off the science diet food and onto all canned low carb food... he tried to dissuade me and i found a vet that supported that , and if it werent for him, misty would have passed away a lot sooner than she did...

just food for thought...

Emilie

[ColColt]

After reading so many negative posts former customers have had with them, I'm inclined to steer clear of any group that has that many unsatisfied people willing to post their feelings on the Internet. It seems it's a country wide problem instead of some isolated instances here and there so; abandon the Optimum Wellness Plan.

I'm pretty sure the vet close by is up to date on medications and the latest techniques, Emilie. I could be wrong but, that's why I think I'll pay them a visit tomorrow. They have a fairly large staff and I'm not sure just how many vets they may have on call. I'm not a big fan of vaccinations unless needed or required as I think sometimes they create more problems than they cure. It's just like me being given three separate antibiotics for some type of "unknown" infection when all along it was a pulmonary problem. That didn't make me too happy when I found that out as I had been taking them for over a month with no improvement. Common sense set in and I knew antibiotics weren't the answer as none were working. Sometimes you have to be your own doctor, unfortunately.

[corgimom]

Here are some peoples stories regarding Bansfield

http://www.consumeraffairs.com/pets/banfield.html

[ColColt]

Yes, and that's only one among many.

[taflar]

David,

Use the vet you feel most comforable with. Do any of them see their own emergencies? That would be a factor in my choice too.

Peggy

[taflar]

I believe the laws here about rabies are the same as yours-three years. Banfields seem to want to vaccinate for various diseases a little too often for me in that they recommend twice a year, vaccines for, Parvo, distemper Leptospirosis, Giardia, Gorona, Lyme's, Bordetella, etc. That just seems a bit too much for me.

The dog you are thinking of getting isn't a puppy so he doesn't need parvo twice a year. A combo shot every 3 years is enough.

As for Lepto, well, my vet advised me not to use it. Said it causes the most reactions. And unless there is lepto in your area and it's the same strain as the vaccine it won't help anyway.

Bordatella is another form of kennel cough. It's usually required if you board your dog. I've not used it with my dogs. But this is one that doesn't last longer than 6 mos.

As for Giardia, Corona, Lyme's, adult dogs don't need the corona vaccine (and it's with a c not g). Girardia and Lyme, well, the jury's out on how well they work. Do some research before you decide to get them. And if Girardia and Lyme is not a big problem in your area, I'd skip them.

In fact I think you should call the other vets you're thinking about and ask what their vaccine protocol for an adult dog is.

Peggy

[MVons]

David, the other reason not to sign up for a year plan is that you might be moving. You would be out the money.

Parvo twice a year - stay away from the Vets that want that. I made that mistake once with Pepper and I didn't return to that money hungry Vet, who turns out was better with birds.

My Vet that has been around since the dawn I use for all the routine things. But if he ever doesn't diagnose something, I will take my dog to the Vet hospital which has all the latest and greatest equipment. But meanwhile, my dog won't be prodded and poked just because the tests are available. My Vet always says, what will you do with the information? Heartgard is a dewormer, so why get the blood test unless you yourself want to know. He would do the test if I asked, but otherwise he will state the pro and con of doing it. I think he hates the fees that the labs are charging for blood work - $80 now and won't do it unless diagnosis or we request. My Vet didn't sound all that confident doing the microchip, so I was going to check with the shelter on which Vet they use, but my breeder's Vet will probably be doing it - saves me the hassle of finding a Vet for that.

I guess what I am saying is don't feel locked in to one Vet for everything. When we first moved in San Diego one Vet asked what breed Pepper was, we didn't see him again. It is funny how something that minor would trigger that response in me. Our current Vet loves animals, and gave Pepper a goodbye kiss as we waited for the injection to finalize her life. That is the type of Vet I am comfortable with for my dog's routine work. One who also stays on top of the vaccination updates - such as lasting for 3 years.

Merrie

[ColColt]

I sure don't feel comfortable with Banfield after reading so many bad complaints against them. I had hope they were what they appeared but, as we all know, this just won't be the case in life...wish it were.

I don't know if Girardia and Lyme's is a problem here or not,Peggy, but; I intend on finding out. I think all pfets should be up to date with shots especially rabies, but as for all the others, well, I just don't think annual boosters are all that necessary unlesss a blood test proves otherwise.

I believe I would have thought twice about taking a pet to someone who didn't know and how to ask what breed he was too, Merrie. I probably would have had the same response and went elsewhere.

[Dillydoodle]

my moment of knowing it was time to look for a new vet was after a year of caring for my cats when i excitedly told my vet " guess what? I am getting a dog... a Pembroke Welsh corgi" and he got this confused look on his face and said " Great, , now let me see, is that the one with the tail or without?" I knew the hunt for a new vet was afoot! LOL!

Emilie

[corgimom]

I sure don't feel comfortable with Banfield after reading so many bad complaints against them. I had hope they were what they appeared but, as we all know, this just won't be the case in life...wish it were.

I don't know if Girardia and Lyme's is a problem here or not,Peggy, but; I intend on finding out. I think all pfets should be up to date with shots especially rabies, but as for all the others, well, I just don't think annual boosters are all that necessary unlesss a blood test proves otherwise.

I believe I would have thought twice about taking a pet to someone who didn't know and how to ask what breed he was too, Merrie. I probably would have had the same response and went elsewhere.

David,

Check with the lady that has Bubba and ask her if he has an annual blood test for heartworm(he is just two, right) - also, regarding vaccinations, when looking for a vet ask them if they do Titer testing so you can decide if you want to give Bubba certain vaccinations. It is my understanding, per my vet, that they cannot do titer testing for Lepto yet. Cody did get the Letpo but I did go back and forth as to whether I should have.(My vet left that decision to me, he just gave me some figures about Lepto in our area) and I decided to go with it. What I did with my vet is space Cody's vaccinations out 2 weeks apart. So he got his rabies, and then 2 weeks later, his distemper and then his lepto so not to overload his system all at once and also if he were to have a reaction to one, we would know which one it would be.

Also, if you are interested in some type of medical coverage for Bubba, check with VIP pet Insurance - I don't personally have it, but Jessica(Fluffypants) I think does, and maybe you could PM her and see if it was worth it and what they cover and the annual fee.

Good luck in finding a vet, I am sure you will come across someone who you will feel comfortable with.

[MissGambler's+Mojo'sMommy]

I have VIP pet insurance, bumper to bumper coverage, including vaccinations, and cancer coverage. I've never had a problem with a claim either. I consider it my umbrella(you know, as long as you have it, you will not need it). I would go this route vs what your vet told you, actually, I don't like what you were told. (And I may get criticized for saying that, but that's my opinion.) And Taflar is correct, vets don't like to give Corona to an adult dog. I had that explained to me when Miss Gambler was a puppy. I would talk with other vets, and get someone to refer you. Most vets offer great puppy packages, that cover all the shots that they need to start off, a physical, and a discount on the spay. I had that with Mojo and also used the insurance.

[ColColt]

If things go ok with Bubba, I'll ask for his shot record so I'll know what he's had and when. I'm sure she wouldn't mind that. The VIP coverage sounds like a good way to go and I'll check into that as well. I think a one on one with the vet down the road will be my first stop to see what they say. If you can't develop a good report with your vet, it doesn't matter how good he/she may be if you don't feel comfortable with them. Thanks for the many good suggestions.

[corgimom]

Most vets offer great puppy packages, that cover all the shots that they need to start off, a physical, and a discount on the spay. I had that with Mojo and also used the insurance.

In our area, the only puppy package deals from vets around here are given to people that adopt from the local humane society. Certain vets have agreed to give the first shots and discounts on spay/ neuter in those cases. Some vets offer multiple pet disounts of maybe 10% off the bill.
Cody's neuter was about $160 - but out East, from what Emilie told me, it was over $300 for Dillons.

[MissGambler's+Mojo'sMommy]

My CA vet, who altered both, and I love that staff dearly, offer a great puppy package, and it doesn't matter where they come from. For $180 it covered a physical, all her shots till six months(which completely vaccinates, including rabies), all frontline doses during that time, and heartworm preventative doses during that time. It also discounted the altering since you had the package. From what I've been told, that type of package is common. It encourages people to vaccinate, and that's a major issue in CA. As for the altering, that was right at $400.00 for Mojo, it was almost the same for Miss Gambler. I didn't know that you could get vaccinations at the humane society, I picked up two cats from the humane society in CA, and know the shelter quite well, they didn't offer anything. Would have been nice since they were both sick, and their adoption was $150-$200 each.

[corgimom]

My CA vet, who altered both, and I love that staff dearly, offer a great puppy package, and it doesn't matter where they come from. For $180 it covered a physical, all her shots till six months(which completely vaccinates, including rabies), all frontline doses during that time, and heartworm preventative doses during that time. It also discounted the altering since you had the package. From what I've been told, that type of package is common. It encourages people to vaccinate, and that's a major issue in CA. As for the altering, that was right at $400.00 for Mojo, it was almost the same for Miss Gambler. I didn't know that you could get vaccinations at the humane society, I picked up two cats from the humane society in CA, and know the shelter quite well, they didn't offer anything. Would have been nice since they were both sick, and their adoption was $150-$200 each.

The amount of $180 is actually the Normal price for around here for what you described and what you got(that is pretty much what I spent on Cody for the physical, all his necessary shots and the heartworm and frontline that would take him through 6 months.

Now you say the altering was discounted but you spent nearly $400 each, still on both dogs? - it amazes me the outrageous prices some vets charge for neutering and spaying.

What I meant with the humane society is that they have specific vets who will give disounts if you adopt an animal from the humane society. You get a certificate with a certain dollar amount off from the humane society and then when you take the animal to your first vet checkup with you, the vet will reduce your bill by the amount on the certificate

Were your cats neutered/spayed at that price? Adult cats here that are already neutered or spayed are $40 and unaltered ones are $35 and then of course, you pay to have them altered.

[MissGambler's+Mojo'sMommy]

Vet prices on the West Coast are outrageous, and yes, the bill for altering was after the discount, and was for each, you read it right. As for the puppy package, my husband did the math and figured that we saved around $50 by getting the package. We just had to pay that fee on her first visit, vs having that six months to pay as you get the vaccinations. I liked paying once, then being able to forget about it. Both cats were already altered. Adoption fees are around $150 to $200, and again, they didn't come with anything else. I do know that they don't even adopt out an animal if it isn't already altered, so I guess that's why the high fee. They had Bubba for over four months, so they certainly didn't make any money off of him. He was being kept in a huge glass aquarium type of thing because of his size, and he had lived his entire first two years in a dark garage before AC took him. He couldn't fit in the metal cages they kept the other cats in.

[corgimom]

That is very sad about Bubba, I am glad he is with you and well loved.- I had seen a cat similar to your Bubba at our humane society a couple of years ago and he was huge - about 30 pounds, but a big cuddler. A bit intimidating at first as he was so large, but harmless.

What they do for unaltered cats here is if the cat is over 6 months old you fill out your paperwork and they actually deliver the cat themselves to your personal vet(when the surgery date is set up)and then you bring the animal home the next day after surgery. - you don't get to bring the animal home before.

If the animals is under 6 months old and not neutered/spayed - you have to pay the adoption fee plus an extra $150 which you will get back once you bring in the certificate to show that you have neutered or spayed them by the time they are 6 months old.

[MissGambler's+Mojo'sMommy]

Bubba is very intimidating looking, that's why they said that they were still keeping him at the HS(and we saw on his forms that his days were numbered there), they said that everyone had been scared of him but they knew he was a great cat. What's funny is that he and Lucifer do not get along, but he fits right in with the dogs, they treat him as an equal. Mojo has never looked at Bubba as a cat, but you let Mojo see Lucifer, and she's prey. Mojo will go up to Bubba and start licking his face, just like she does Miss Gambler, and they will play together, yesterday they were play fighting over a stuffed dog toy, Bubba loves balls. My husband says that Bubba was a bulldog in a past life, and must have been really mean to a cat so was sent back as a cat in this life as punishment. He really is more dog than cat. He travels like the dogs also. Lucifer hates to travel, and is all cat with the claws. When my husband and I married, she hated him, clawed him each and every day, and he was starting to hate her, till she suddenly started wanting to sit in his lap at night and watch tv. Never have figured that cat out, she's whacked.

[ColColt]

I decided to stop by the vets that are on the way home and chat with them a little. They had brochures everywhere about Heartgard, Heartguard Plus, Frontline, and a sundry of other pamphlets and paper work. I asked one up front by the desk if they had a shot protocol for adult dogs and they gave me a vaccination guide whereby questions were asked in the brochure and then answered. It talked about how often, do they work, why it is important and about Rabies, Distemper, Hepatitis, Lepto, Respiratory diseases, etc. I was given a card which showed there were four vets employed there and a sticker for the refrigerator with their name and doctors names on it along with the phone number.

I asked what they did for their customers that had an emergency at 10:00 at night and they gave me yet another brochure and refrigerator magnet with the name and number of the local animal ER here (four miles away). They were also familiar with Corgis when I mentioned that and two of them smiled and said, "we just love those little short legs". They said whenever I got my Corgi, to bring him by and they would do a head to tail exam and fecal test and have him registered since he would have been brought in form out of state and they would check his shot record to see if he needed anything. I had told them I would get the shot record earlier.

The brochure about vaccinations showed a typical vaccination program for puppies as well as for adult dogs. All in all, I think this may be a good place to start. All questions were answered and I felt good about the people I spoke with.

[disraeli ears]

I worked at PetSmart and could have gotten a discount at Banfield for my pet care...no thanks!
I have always been willing to pay a little more for a vet that I really feel comfortable leaving my dogs in the hands of. Our Houston vet, Dr. Tippitt, was so great! She always remembered my kids, treated them nicely, asked how I was and generally remembered things I told her about me, didn't try to foist unnecessary crap on to my bill...all the things a good vet should do! :BIGGRIN" We miss her...

I have VPI pet insurance, but haven't had to use it. I think I pay about $29 a month for each of my dogs - that works out to quite a bit less than $400+ a year.
I was reading those Banfield complaints...oy vey! While I don't feel sorry for those who complained because they wouldn't cancel their contract when their pet died (they did sign a year-long CONTRACT after all), I do feel sorry that Banfield made them sign a contract at all. VPI is month-to-month, no contracts - I think you just have to give them 30 days notice to cancel.

[MVons]

Oh my word, thank you for this wake up call. You see having a puppy 15 years ago vs now is sticker shock. I was prepared for the price of the puppy to be double, but in no way was I prepared for the price of spaying to be 4 TIMES the rate. When MGM said $400, I brought out the dog file and started calling Pepper's past Vets. Pepper's spay was $50 and yes it was at an affordable Vet that wasn't our usual one, but we had no complaints because we didn't want Pepper to spend the night. Their rates have really changed. I am happy to say that Riverside county has affordable spay clinics.

Just trying to recover from price shock. SO glad you all gave me heads up before the altering time came around. Oh and ONE clinic mentioned they do vasectomies at a much higher price. It is a real shame that a dog's vasectomy costs more than a humans!

Merrie

[sutulu]

David:

It is interesting how the way people treat you effects your perception.

All the folks at my Vet clinic are as wonderful to me and the dogs as can be but the woman who spoke with me that very first day I walked in just to check them out will always be my favorite. What a good sales person she is for that clinic.

They are always helpful, warm, patient, and happy to see me and the dogs. It make a huge difference.

Susan

[Dillydoodle]

Dillon's neuter was more expensive because he was chryptorchid... so he had two incisions... if it were a standard neuter it never would have been as expensive as it was ...
Emilie

[corgimom]

Emilie, Cody was chryptorchid just like Dillon and his surgery was $160; I was only charged $30 more than a regular neuter - so see, you will have to move to our neck of the woods for lower prices - you also Merrie and MGM:LAUGH:

And I agree Susan that first person you encounter and how they treat you at a business makes a huge difference for me if I go back to do business there. I don't want to have to greet a crabby receptionist who doesn't like her job, where I take my pet.

Hope this place works out for you David, they sounded very nice.

[ColColt]

David:

It is interesting how the way people treat you effects your perception.

All the folks at my Vet clinic are as wonderful to me and the dogs as can be but the woman who spoke with me that very first day I walked in just to check them out will always be my favorite. What a good sales person she is for that clinic.

They are always helpful, warm, patient, and happy to see me and the dogs. It make a huge difference.

Susan

So true-that first impression is always important in all walks of life. Those girls at the counter (about three of them) were so lovely to look at, I'd probably go there just to see them!! Big brown eyes and all!! He, he...but, they were young enough to be grandchildren.+SAD+

[disraeli ears]

Emilie, Cody was chryptorchid just like Dillon and his surgery was $160; I was only charged $30 more than a regular neuter - so see, you will have to move to our neck of the woods for lower prices - you also Merrie and MGM:LAUGH:


Me, too! Rhys was also cryptorchid and his cost about $400. I don't think I did my vet bills any favor by moving to suburban Washinton, D.C.! :NAH:

[MVons]

Emilie, Cody was chryptorchid just like Dillon and his surgery was $160; I was only charged $30 more than a regular neuter - so see, you will have to move to our neck of the woods for lower prices - you also Merrie and MGM$400-$160 is $240. RT mileage 4300miles/27mpg=160 gallons. Bummer not out ahead enough to swing for a trip to visit WI with my dog and a male cardi is too long to fit under the commuter seats of the airline my husband works for. :SMILE:

Merrie

[mtoy]

Link will need to be neutered by the end of July. I have no idea what our vet charges, will have to call to find out tomorrow. I was talking to a local breeder (not corgi) recently and she told me about her vet. That's now my backup vet if I ever decide to switch. Sheesh, I don't even have a backup MD if any of us humans need to switch!

[mtoy]

Well holy *#$%, I called our vet about the neuter price. It would be anywhere from $217 to $262. I called the vet that was recommended to me by a local breeder (she's very picky and into the very best health for her dogs), they charge between $75 & $87. What the????? That's quite the difference!

Link needs his rabies shot, so I made an appointment with the new place for next week to check them out. It's a well known place with a solid reputation, 3 locations and emergency services too. The price difference may be that they are in the next county. My county is known for high cost everything. Good thing we're close to the county line.

[ColColt]

mtoy-I noticed you were going to get Link neutered and also a rabies shot. I remember reading somewhere about not vaccinating within two weeks of any surgery but, the neutering being close to a month should put him far enough out to be all right. I don't know the why's about this but, I did recall reading that.

[mtoy]

mtoy-I noticed you were going to get Link neutered and also a rabies shot. I remember reading somewhere about not vaccinating within two weeks of any surgery but, the neutering being close to a month should put him far enough out to be all right. I don't know the why's about this but, I did recall reading that.

Yes, I have read that too. He'll be 6 months at the end of July, so if he gets the shot next week we'll have plenty of time to get him neutered and be "safe" about it. Both vet offices wanted to do a combo appointment, but I said no. The shot lowers the immunity (at least that's how I understand it) so doing it with the surgery is an unneeded risk. I wanted to hold off as long as possible with both items, the rabies shot because of Millie's horrible reaction, and the neuter because so many say it does weird things to the growth. But, between state laws, licensing and the breeder contract I can only do so much. And, of course I don't want him to get rabies should he be exposed, and I don't want to deal with an (another, lol) intact male in this house.

[ColColt]

It seems to vary from state to state as to how often rabies vaccinations are required. I wold say no more than three years in most vicinities, but, I have heard of some places in NC only requiring them every five years. Personally, I don't like vaccines at all-except once. That seems like it should be sufficient to me but, I'm no doctor. I think boosters are not necessary.

[The Chipmunk's Mom]

When I lived in New York, they always gave rabies vaccines every three years. In TN, they prefer to give them yearly. I don't like that as well.

[disraeli ears]

Texas recently changed to once every three years rabies shots...I think it is that way here in Virginia, too.

[mtoy]

Here in Michigan it's every 3 years. Still too often for me...

[MissGambler's+Mojo'sMommy]

My vet will not give an aged animal more than a one year rabies shot, so they have to have it every year. Less chance of reaction, and less chance of cysts from the injection site. I have an older cat that I have to go through this with, and she's had extremely bad reactions in the past, we used to have to sedate her before her rabies, but since she went on the yearly, no reactions anymore.

[Dillydoodle]

In CT, the first shot is one year and after that it is every three years. However, In Gus's case, we may skip it next time, his condition may exempt him from having to get it, i will have to look into the CT laws, but in some states because of his autoimmune disorder ( Dermatomyositis is an autoimmune disorder) will allow exceptions.

As for my elderly cats I dont give rabies after about 10 or 11 yrs... Misty had her last one at 11 and when it came up again she was on insulin and such, i said there was no way, send the rabies police after me, whatever i wont do it, and my vet said that he wouldnt either but can legally tell you not to due to the fact it is law... Suki had her last rabies shot this last visit at age 10 and Ka-sea is 8 so she will have one more at age 11 and that will be it for her.

Emilie

[corgimom]

Emilie,

It is every 3 years also here. As for my senior cat who is now 13, I don't plan on giving the rabies anymore either.

[mtoy]

I made that appointment for Link's rabies shot yesterday. All night long I tossed and turned, worrying about possible reactions. Millie was just so sick afterwards, and sometimes I think she never recovered fully. I just don't know what I would do if Link had a bad reaction. Ugh, I hate this stuff! :ARG:

Millie will never have another rabies (or other) vaccine. Ever. Hopefully she'll live forever, but no matter how long it is, I will not let it happen.

[MissGambler's+Mojo'sMommy]

I would love to not have to give my pets their shots, but two years ago, I ran into this problem, I had to take my cat to the vet, and they would not see him until I had proof that he was vaccinated. It's for the staff's protection, as well as for the other animals there. My proof was in another state!!!(I don't make my cats wear their tags because they are strictly indoor cats.) Also, if your pet bites anyone, and all dogs have that capability, no matter how loving, (Mojo snapped at a kid last week, he was wearing a big bike helmet and that scared her), then you run the risk of your pet being impounded for observation because you have not vaccinated for rabies. That in itself is too much of a risk for me to take. Also, when I and/or my dogs run into other dogs, I would like to think that they have been vaccinated. I totally agree that administering shots is a serious matter, but it could cause YOU some serious problems if they haven't had their rabies shot.

[mtoy]

Duh, I am such an idiot sometimes! I was just looking over the paperwork and contract from our breeder and it says Link needs to be neutered by 1 year, not 6 months! Whew! I am so relieved. I really wanted to wait until he was a bit older. Now I can put off the rabies vaccine for a while, too.+SPIN+

[mtoy]

I would love to not have to give my pets their shots, but two years ago, I ran into this problem, I had to take my cat to the vet, and they would not see him until I had proof that he was vaccinated. It's for the staff's protection, as well as for the other animals there. My proof was in another state!!!(I don't make my cats wear their tags because they are strictly indoor cats.) Also, if your pet bites anyone, and all dogs have that capability, no matter how loving, (Mojo snapped at a kid last week, he was wearing a big bike helmet and that scared her), then you run the risk of your pet being impounded for observation because you have not vaccinated for rabies. That in itself is too much of a risk for me to take. Also, when I and/or my dogs run into other dogs, I would like to think that they have been vaccinated. I totally agree that administering shots is a serious matter, but it could cause YOU some serious problems if they haven't had their rabies shot.

I know, it's serious stuff. Luckily I took Millie in to the vet when she was ill from the shot, so it's now noted on her record that she reacts to it. She gets a waiver now. Current research shows the rabies vaccine gives immunity for at least 7 years, if not life. So I'm not too worried about it expiring before she does. Hopefully they will come out with new recomendations that make more sense for the health of dogs instead of the pocket linings of manufacturers and others. Until then, I'll be quaking in my boots every time they put a needle to Link.+SAD+

[Dillydoodle]

While i agree that rabies is a serious matter, I also understand that in some cases rabies shots can cause damage like in the case of Gus, he had his rabies shot before coming to me and was starting to flair up due to the shot. In the the case of an elderly animal the rabies shot can have bad effects on them....some have awful reactions and in the case of Misty ( diabetic and elderly) i have no doubts that the rabies shot would have been the catalyst for a downward spiral for her... there was a delicate balance for her and the smallest thing could upset the apple cart... as it was when i ended up having to get her teeth pulled, that i upset that delicate balance by having her put under during the surgery and that lead to her kidney's completely failing two weeks later and having to make the painful decision to help her to the rainbow bridge... unfortunately i had no choice, she would have stopped eating due to the rotted teeth so it was either have her stop eating due to pain in her bad teeth or take the risk of the surgery to have them removed and her teeth cleaned... I took the gamble and i lost.

Emilie

[MissGambler's+Mojo'sMommy]

DILLYDOODLE and MTOY, you guys arre preaching to the choir, I feel the same way that you guys do, I stressed that, my 11 year old has had a severe reaction to a Rabies vaccination, she had a seizure 30 minutes after leaving the vet. So I know that their are issues that pets can have that can make one have to choose not to vaccinate, you guys don't have to educate me on that one. I made the choice to continue vaccination, instead of having other worries. This is something that I have discussed with my vets, and have made an informed decision on, I do my research as well. My cat is sedated prior to a vaccination, only gets one year doses, and there has been no problem since we started this procedure. I have traveled extensively with my pets crossing state lines, lots of human contact, different vets, I don't want to ever worry about my pet being taken from me for observation because of not having the rabies vaccination. That's all I was pointing out, and this is my choice. :SMILE:

[Dillydoodle]

I totally understand MGM, i wasnt saying your decision to vaccinate was not a good one, i was just pointing out my own experience and the reason why i have decided to do what i have done...and maybe if i were more of a traveler I would have to make other decisions. As far as Gus goes, i will not vaccinate him, i will get an exemption for him as his body can't take it

Emilie

[MissGambler's+Mojo'sMommy]

I truly understand your position with Gus, and I think that you know just how strongly I feel about the great care I know that he is receiving from you and his new doctors. If I was in your position, I certainly would not even consider giving him anything that he could react to and run the risk of making his situation even worse.

PS I can't wait till you get the chance to post a photo of Gus showing no skin issues, one where he looks just as healthy as Dillon. That will probably be months from now from what you have said, but time does fly, you'll be posting that photo before you know it.