AMATEUR VETS KILL THEIR PETS; Owners can't afford sick bills.Byline: John Ferguson John Ferguson may refer to one of the following:
THE economic crisis is killing pets, it has been revealed. It's forcing owners to have their sick pets put down, instead of paying costly veterinary fees. And the downturn is also turning people into amateur vets who think they can treat their aminals. A study by More Than Pet Insurance found 69 per cent of owners in the UK aren't prepared to give up luxuries like dining out Dining Out is one of the many traditions held by the military today. The history dates back to when Roman soldiers would hold dinners in honor of an individual. Later, British naval officers held a "guest night" to relax with other military personal and honored guests. or shopping sprees to pay vet fees. Pets in Edinburgh are slightly safer, although 64 per cent of people would still refuse to make sacrifices for their animal. The study also reveals the measures hard-up owners are resorting to in order to avoid vet bills - regardless of the consequences. One in 10 say they would try self-diagnosis and administer human medicine to avoid paying a professional. Deadly This is despite 60 per cent admitting they don't know enough about animal health to spot if their pet is unwell. Vets have warned that prescribing human medicine for an animal can be deadly. Prolonged pro·long tr.v. pro·longed, pro·long·ing, pro·longs 1. To lengthen in duration; protract. 2. To lengthen in extent. use of some painkillers can lead to kidney failure kidney failure or renal failure Partial or complete loss of kidney function. Acute failure causes reduced urine output and blood chemical imbalance, including uremia. Most patients recover within six weeks. or stomach ulcers. The research shows many owners are taking their pet's health for granted, with almost 70 per cent not having insurance. Also highlighted is the widespread confusion and frustration surrounding vet charges. Half of owners say vets don't explain their charges properly before treating animals and 62 per cent admit they have no idea what they will be charged. Peter Markey, from More Than, said: "Times are tough and the research shows our pets are among the first to feel the bite. "Many are at risk of being put down if they need a surprise vet visit. "The report highlights what a big responsibility owning a pet is and how important it is to make provisions in case the worst happens." |
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