Pets need health care just like you and I do, and just like you and I, that health care can be shockingly expensive, especially as your cat or dog ages and develops more problems. We collectively spend more than $135 billion on our animal friends, and much of that money goes to visits to the local veterinarian, where a routine exam costs an average of $60-$100, depending on where you live and how many pets you have. But that cost skyrockets if your pet needs more than just a checkup. Anything that requires a few tests and treatments can quickly add up to hundreds or even thousands of dollars.
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If you don't have thousands of dollars (or even tens of dollars) to spare right now and you're not sure how to pay for your cat or dog's care, there are agencies that can help you pay for veterinary bills for free.
Your first and easiest option for free veterinary care is telemedicine. Through chat or an app on your phone, you can communicate with a licensed veterinarian, describe symptoms and receive advice, and in some cases, prescriptions on the spot (there may be a charge for any medications you receive).
It’s important to note that many states legally prohibit veterinarians from diagnosing or prescribing medications without an in-person visit. This is slowly changing in the wake of the telehealth boom, but you should understand the laws in your area before relying on a pet telehealth service.
