Practical ways pet owners CAN prepare for veterinary emergencies

Paws 4 Safety, Kim Bradley

Over the past weeks, we've discussed the financial realities of veterinary emergencies and the emotional toll those situations can have on pet owners. Fortunately, there are practical steps owners can take now that may help reduce panic later. Most of us understand that eventually something unexpected will happen. A sudden illness, injury, poisoning, surgery, or late-night emergency veterinary visit can quickly turn an ordinary day upside down. Because let’s face it, there’s more (financially) pet ownership than food and toys.

One of the simplest ways to prepare is by creating an emergency fund specifically for your pets. Even small amounts set aside regularly can grow over time. Ten dollars a week may not seem like much, but over the course of a year it can create a financial cushion when unexpected expenses arise. Many pet owners are also exploring pet insurance as part of their preparedness plan. While insurance is not the right choice for every family, it can literally become a lifesaver in some situations.

When faced with an unexpected emergency, treatment decisions are often made quickly. Having insurance coverage may allow owners to focus more on medical options and less on immediate financial concerns. As with any insurance product, it is important to research coverage carefully, understand deductibles, exclusions, waiting periods and age limitations before making a decision. For owners who choose not to carry pet insurance, it is still important to think creatively about how emergency expenses might be managed.

Over the years, I have, and seen pet owners hold bake sales, benefit dinners, yard sales, online fundraisers, auctions and community events to help offset unexpected veterinary costs. After my pug Morty required surgery by a specialist, I organized a simple "Pugcake Sale." The support was incredible and not only helped cover Morty's expenses but ultimately allowed me to help other pets in need as well. Even considering those options, prevention remains one of the most overlooked forms of preparedness. 

Keep a well-stocked, up-to-date first aid kit on hand. Maintaining healthy body weight, keeping vaccinations current, scheduling regular veterinary examinations, preventing parasites and addressing minor problems before they become major ones can often save both money and heartache later. Keeping copies of medical records, medication lists and emergency contact numbers together in one location can save valuable time during stressful situations.

Learning your pets’ baselines and doing regular at home checkups on your pet(s) to catch potential issues early when possible. Learning basic pet first aid and knowing your pet's normal temperature, pulse, respiration, appetite and behavior can also help owners recognize problems sooner. 

In addition, one of the most important conversations families can have takes place long before an emergency ever occurs. Who will ultimately make the medical decisions? How much financial hardship is realistic for the family? What is the spending limit? Would everyone agree on pursuing specialty care, surgery, or long-term treatment? Who will provide transportation or care for the other pets at home? These are difficult but necessary conversations. And having them beforehand can prevent confusion, disagreements and additional emotional strain during an already stressful time. Preparedness cannot prevent every emergency. But it can replace panic with a plan. And that’s one of the greatest gifts we can give the animals who depend on us. Because emergencies are difficult enough. Facing them without preparation can make them even harder.

Kim Bradley is the founder of Paws 4 Safety; a pet safety education initiative focused on helping pet owners prepare for emergencies and everyday situations involving their pets. For more information visit the Pet Safety Learning Center at Paws4Safety.com or call 877-829-1997. Because moments matter.