The ‘Price of a Pal’ Strikes a Chord

As a practicing veterinarian for more than six years, I feel compelled to respond to the article, “What Price A Pal?” I question the folks who have had horrible experiences with their veterinarians. Why have they not sought a second opinion from another veterinarian? There are plenty of compassionate, non-greedy, animal-loving veterinarians who would not be gouging their clients with excessive fees or unnecessary tests.

At our hospital last year (where we have 9,000 patients), only six animals had a bill for $1,000 or more. These cases were extremely ill animals whose owners wanted to do everything possible to save their lives. Furthermore, several options are usually available to pet owners.

MARY SHERMAN, DVM, Woodland Hills