How to Pay for a Veterinarian Bill You Can't Afford
- 1). Explain your financial situation to your veterinarian and ask if a payment plan is possible. Ask if you can get a reduced bill by working out a trade -- volunteer to clean cages, answer phones or transport animals as needed. Show as much concern for your pet's welfare as possible to prove you're willing to do whatever it takes to get the right treatment. Some veterinarians will work out arrangements with long-time clients and pet owners who genuinely care about their animals.
- 2). Apply for financing. Submit an application with CareCredit, a leading credit card company for people seeking emergency funds to pay for health care, including veterinary care. Approval is dependent upon your credit history, but CareCredit claims to work with every budget. Apply for a small personal loan or credit card through your banking institution. Consider using the equity in your home or car to secure additional financing.
- 3). Apply for grants through animal welfare organizations such as the American Animal Hospital Association, the Feline Veterinary Emergency Assistance Program or Help-A-Pet. Contact every animal welfare organization you can find in your state to solicit financial assistance or referrals to programs that offer financial assistance.
- 4). Liquidate your assets or earn extra income. Determine what's more valuable to you -- your material possessions or your pet. Consider selling items such as electronics or books at a garage sale or to a pawn shop to generate extra funds. Accept a part-time job to earn extra income until the veterinary bill has been paid.
- 5). Ask friends and family for help. Request loans from your closest friends and family and offer to sign a written contract agreeing to pay them back within a certain amount of time.
- 6). Get a second opinion. Ask animal welfare groups such as your local Humane Society or friends and family if they can refer you to a low-cost veterinarian in your area. Consult with that veterinarian to see if there is an alternative treatment that is more affordable.
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