How to Save Money on Orthopedic Surgery for Your Pet

Orthopedic surgery on your pet can be expensive. When it is the only option available, the best way to go about it is getting the most bang for your buck, so to speak. The more homework and research you do regarding the surgery, the less money you're likely to spend as a result. A good rule of thumb is to contact at least five separate veterinary hospitals to get an estimate for the price of the procedure. Take advantage of any free exams or consultations offered in order to get a second opinion if necessary. Below, you will find a list of questions that you should present to the hospitals you're considering.

How much? This is most likely the first question that comes to mind and with good reason, too. However, just asking this leaves more open-ended questions. Does the surgery include blood work and pain medications? Are there any extra charges for after care bandaging or bandage changing? Bandage changing and X-rays alone can cost up to $100 each. Additionally, most orthopedic surgeons require four to give follow-up exams to make sure that the surgery is healing properly. Make sure that you're aware of possible re-check exam visit fees as well. If you're worried about your pooch after surgery, you want to make sure that you've found a hospital that you can trust...and that won't try to milk you for every penny you've got.

Who is the surgeon? Logically, you want to make sure that the surgeon you pick is qualified to be performing this surgery. By gaining their name in advance, you can search through the American Veterinary Medicine Association (AVMA) online database to ensure that he is a board-certified surgeon. Most people are unaware that not all veterinarians are board-certified surgeons. A board-certified surgeon has done extensive additional, specialized training and is more qualified to perform an orthopedic surgery.

What is the success rate? Although every veterinarian strives for a 100% success rate with their practice, there is always a chance for human error or a catastrophic mistake. Generally, a good success rate is above 95%. When choosing a hospital, be sure to ask if the cost of correction is included if for some reason (however unlikely) the procedure is unsuccessful.

Can I get a tour of the hospital? Many vets are more than happy to give a guided tour of their facility when asked. By taking advantage of this, it allows you to see first-hand the cleanliness of the facility and the equipment that they use. For example, a hospital with a digital X-ray machine allows the clinic to instantly view their image which saves time and gives instant results. Because of this, pre- and post-surgical X-rays can be taken and the visible changes presented to you immediately.

Can you work around my schedule? A surgeon that is willing (and able) to work around your schedule saves you the grief of having to take a day off of work in order for your pet to undergo the surgery he/she needs. After all of these questions have been answered, ask for the phone numbers of at least five previous clients to check in with them and see what they thought of both the hospital and the surgeon.

Once you are completely satisfied with the surgeon you have selected, set up a consultation appointment to meet with the surgeon to discuss important elements for you to be aware of regarding the surgery.

Essentially, the more questions that a clinic can answer "yes" to, the better deal you'll be getting. Taking the time to walk through these steps can easily save you over $1000. Plus, you get the confidence of knowing that you're entrusting a precious member of your family to someone dependable. That is the most important part, after all.