We often have a delicate issue develop between members of the same family regarding what amount of money is appropriate to spend on a sick or injured pet. Pets are often valued beyond the direct investment of the time and money placed upon them. Some pets cost more than others right from the start if they are rare, pure breeds or the offspring of champions. Many animals especially dogs, horses, livestock, mules, camels, elephants, birds and exhibit animals are skillfully trained to do certain tasks which help man on a daily basis. Our own personal pets get special house and obedience training just so they can live with us in our home as better companions. The issue of how much is too much to spend on a pet can cause personal distress or conflict within a family. It is the utilitarian vs. humanitarian viewpoint. We help justify the cost of medical care for a pet by viewing the pet as more than a "hobby" for the involved pet owner. Most people understand the time and money it costs to support sport hobbies such as cycling, skiing, diving, fishing, hunting, boating, etc. Collecting hobbies can cost more! When we explain that pets are more meaningful than hobbies and they love us back, most conflicts resolve. We value our personal pets with love and emotion. The choice we make to spend money on pets just as we do on clothes, sports, hobbies, vacation or eating out is very, very OKAY! Ask your vet!
