To all potential beardie owners...

[imaginarium]

I'm sorry, but I've opened 3 posts in a row now that state "x horrible thing happened to my beardie and I can't take it to a vet." I'll make this short, but PLEASE DON'T BUY ANIMALS YOU CAN'T AFFORD! That includes food, shelter, and yes, vet bills. If you are unable to afford it right now, wait until you have budgeted a vet fund to buy your pet. My $120 a piece ferrets have cost me thousands in vet bills over 5 years. I was not planning on that when I bought them when I was in college, but I've made other sacrifices so they could be comfortable. This isn't bashing on anyone, but I'm hoping maybe someone will see this and stop before they end up in a bind. Reptile vets are expensive, and at some point in your pets life you'll probably need to go to one. Please consider this if you're using this forum for research before buying a beardie.

 

[fez09]

I agree 1000%!! I recently was able to leave a retainer fee (kinda like a down payment) with my vet so that if something ever comes up, I already have a $300.00 credit. Most vets will accept something like that...If I do have an emergency, or even just need fecal samples done on my dragons, then I'm already covered. Just an idea...

 

[definitions]

I never thought of a retainer fee like that. That is a great Idea, here in January I am coming into a little cash so I will definitely do that. GREAT IDEA!!

 

[fez09]

I read that idea in one of Wolfman Tom's threads and I thought it was great, I have 6 beardies and 1 on the way so when I need a vet I won't have to have to worry about it! Even leaving $50.00 or $100.00 will help in a pinch!

 

[tonid]

Totally agree with this post. I know how hard it can be to find the cash when your pet is taken ill having recently spend £600 on my sick dragon, but this should always be a consideration when buying a pet. I have been looking into insurance for my beardies to cover the vets bill, and have found one for about £100 per year. Unfortunately they will not cover my dragon as she has ongoing health issues, but any future dragons I get I will be sure to take out this insurance. The sad thing is though is that personal circumstances can change quickly in this financial climate and a pet that you could once comfortably afford can become a financial burden. I will find the insurance company details and post them on here later if they would help anyone.