Pocono News Section

Fetch $20 For Pet's Vet Care

Fetch $20 For Pet's Vet Care - Monday, February 16, 2009 at 6:05PM EST

The economy may have gone to the dogs.. But you don't have to let your pet suffer because of it. Tonight, we've got a way to slash the cost of pet care. Consumer reporter Jeff Chirico joins us now with the details.
A new survey revealed less people are taking their dogs or cats to the veterinarian because of the cost. That has one company now offering 20 dollar vouchers to encourage pet owners to get to the vet.

This German Shephard has lots of love despite his painful arthritis. "They find him tied right over here." The staff at Pocono Lakes Animal Hospital say someone dropped him off overnight --perhaps because they couldn't afford medication. "Sixty dollars a month would be fine to treat him it's no surgery needs to be done, just pain management."

But vet tech Alicia Casey says the tough economy is hurting dogs and cats. She's seen more pet owners cutting back on care. The appointment book says it all. On Saturday, 6 of 12 appointments either canceled or didn't show. And vet workers believe it has to do with the economy." "They're very blatant about saying it's because of money. They don't have money to care for themselves. They don't have money to take care of furry little friends."

But now you can fetch pet care for less. This is video supplied by Bayer Healthcare which is offering 20 dollars vouchers to help defray vet bills. You can get it online by filling out a form at . This pet owner thinks many could use the help. “I'm sure there's a lot more people that have to put pets down or give them up for adoption because they can't afford pets anymore."

Fortunately, it seems this dog's owner couldn't afford to put him asleep. Alicia believes this gentle giant has a couple more years to live --if he gets the medication he needs.

The best way to avoid costly vet bills is free. Take your dog for a walk everyday, brush them and their teeth regularly. Bayer is giving away over 12 thousand vouchers --one thousand everyday. To order a voucher go to