We understand that unexpected pet medical care expenses can be challenging and stressful. Here we provide you with some options and ideas that may help you to prepare for those costs.
Pet Insurance
When your four-legged friend is covered by a pet insurance policy, you can focus more on his or her health and less on the cost of veterinary care. If an unexpected illness occurs or surgery is required, you will be relieved to know your pet will receive the best care possible, instead of worrying about where you are going to get the money to pay for the procedure and/or diagnostics. Today there are many pet insurance companies, and it’s certainly worth looking into, given the rising costs of medical care and, well, everything. We have integrated with Trupanion, a pet insurance company who extends an offer for free coverage for your pet for 30 days after a physical examination with a veterinarian. Trupanion also has an electronic claims process which takes only minutes and allows you to pay only your portion of the bill at checkout. (They pay 90% of your pet’s eligible expenses!)
- For more information, visit www.trupanion.com.
Savings Account
Many people now make the wise decision to start a savings account specifically designated for their pets’ medical expenses. If you opt not to take out insurance on your pets, a separate savings account for them is strongly encouraged. Being in a situation where your pet needs medical attention fast and not having the ability to pay for it can be extremely stressful and emotional.
ScratchPay
When you need to utilize a payment plan to help spread out the cost of your pet’s services over time, ScratchPay is a wonderful option! They have several plans to choose from, and the application process takes about 90 seconds. Finding your plan can be done right from your smart phone and does not affect your credit score. Your pet can receive the care he or she needs while allowing you to better budget for the expenses if you do not have insurance or a savings account for your pet. Scratchpay can be used for any type of veterinary care, not just emergency, and we have received positive feedback from our clients with it.
- For more information or to apply, visit www.scratchpay.com.
Help Fix ME!
Maine’s Low Cost Spay/Neuter Program distributes applications to qualified individuals who can’t afford to spay or neuter their dogs or cats. Click the link below for more information.
Other Financial Assistance
Over the years, several financial assistance programs have been created to help out with veterinary expenses. Some are breed-specific or condition-specific or have other requirements needed to apply. RedRover has compiled a directory as an informational resource. The link to their website is below. Typically, to be considered for financial assistance you need to complete an application, and a decision will be made by a board of directors based on each individual case. In addition, sometimes local programs or “angel funds” exist to help out. You may consider checking with your local humane society to see if there are any funds available in your area. The Bangor and Waterville area humane societies’
websites are also listed below.
We accept all major credit cards, as well as cash and checks. Please note, at this time we do not accept CareCredit, unless it is a CareCredit card with the Mastercard or Visa logo.
