Sick animals are an expensive business

Our old dog, Glen, got an inflamed pancreas and spent three days at the vet. Getting him back cost more than $1000.

The disease is likely to recur. During a discouraging assessment of pet insurance online, I learned a new phrase. If the inflammation comes back, Glen faces the prospect of "euthanasia due to finances".

The decision is especially tough when it is a pet, but this "pay millions or put it down" dilemma is part and parcel of farm life. Real farmers must face it every day.

I know I don't own a single domestic animal that, in terms of re-sale value, is worth more than a single visit from a vet. Well, selling the new ram might pay for a couple of hours of veterinary time.

I don't blame the vets. They work hard, long hours, and cover an array of medical conditions vastly beyond that faced by any GP.

And for that matter, when did a doctor last make a house call?

The only official alternative seems to be avoidance, by frequent use of cheap but increasingly ineffective preventive drenches and injections. I don't like it. It reminds me of my American relatives, who seem to eat more pills than food.

After a few hefty bills, I have learned to turn first, not to a vet, but to a veteran farmer. Our neighbours always rally uncomplainingly when I find myself at wit's end with an unwell beast. Most times it is something they encounter routinely, and veterinary help is not needed. There are people inexperienced lifestylers can pay $50 to trim an alpaca's hooves or repair a gate. Wouldn't it be good if there was some animal health equivalent, too?

- © Fairfax NZ News