When I was growing up, my house was nicknamed "the menagerie," and "the zoo" because we had critters of all kinds--dogs, cats, birds, rodents, reptiles--we had it all. Because our home was so full of life, we also had to face some of the scariest decisions: when to end some of those lives because our animals were sick and suffering.
Seeing a beloved companion endure trauma of any kind is heart-wrenching, but you want to make the right decision for him at this crucial time. I know as a perpetual pet owner the instinct to hold out hope--and I'm not suggesting that you immediately let go of it. Just be realistic as you assess the situation--and let me help you do just that.
While listening to your veterinarian's advice is obviously key, you also need to pull your own weight by doing research on your pet's condition. The internet will be helpful, of course, but you may want to search books and magazines specifically dedicated to your dog, cat, or horse's breed, as those may give some specific insights to those conditions the breed is susceptible to.
If you adopted from a breeder, then you may want to ask him or her some questions to find out if they've had any previous experience with the ailment and what can be expected from treatment. Reputable breeders will often refund part or all of the purchase price of your pet if a genetic defect has, in fact, cropped up, which you can apply directly to veterinary bills.
Be aware that advances in veterinary medicine have significantly increased your animal companion's chances of survival. Equine stem cell therapy has moved forward dramatically, meaning tendon and ligament injuries can be treated quickly and effectively.
Normally these issues could be crippling for your noble steed, but the research and development of such therapies has made them more affordable than ever. The same is true for emerging treatments for other critters.
It is wise to assess how many viable years your pet has left if they were to survive their current ordeal. If they have been in otherwise great health until this point and they still have several years to be expected if they pull through, then I say follow through with the vet's recommended treatment.
Concerned about the finances? Explain to your vet or his office manager your financial situation to find out what kind of payment plan can be worked out. This is your friend's life, after all.
Author Resource:-
VetCell is a Tendon and Ligament Injuries a U.S. distributor for Pall Corporation's E-PET platelet enhancement system. (http://www.vetcellamericas.com/)
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