Hi. Advice on IVDD and MRI please

[Claire Goodwin]

Hi. My shih Tzu is 7 and has hurt his back. This is the 3rd time in less than 2 years it’s happened.

vet suspects IVDD and wants him to go for an MRI. I live in Kent and he said I’d have to go to royal veterinary college in Hertfordshire!

Problem is, my car is unreliable and more importantly, I can’t afford £2,500. I’m on benefits and do qualify for PDSA but to be honest they are not great and I don’t think they would cover something like this.

I do have pet insurance but thr the max limit per condition is £2500. And as he has hurt his back in the past, they may class it as pre existing condition and won’t pay out anyway.

I’m worried sick about him and just don’t know what to do. Has anyone got any advice for me please? x

 

[JudyN]

I'm a firm believer that no one should ever feel guilty if they simply can't afford the cost of the 'ideal' treatment. Assuming the £2500 is for the MRI rather than subsequent treatment, then you're unlikely to be able to afford surgery, so (based on a quick google - please bear in mind I'm not a vet and don't know anything about the conditiono or your dog's symptoms!) you could be looking at management and pain relief, which you could do anyway.

I would at least try the PDSA, if only for a second opinion. Some vets completely ignore their clients' financial position, but the PDSA should at least understand that your funds are limited and be able to talk you through your options. And check with your insurance company too, just in case.

 

[Claire Goodwin]

I'm a firm believer that no one should ever feel guilty if they simply can't afford the cost of the 'ideal' treatment. Assuming the £2500 is for the MRI rather than subsequent treatment, then you're unlikely to be able to afford surgery, so (based on a quick google - please bear in mind I'm not a vet and don't know anything about the conditiono or your dog's symptoms!) you could be looking at management and pain relief, which you could do anyway.

I would at least try the PDSA, if only for a second opinion. Some vets completely ignore their clients' financial position, but the PDSA should at least understand that your funds are limited and be able to talk you through your options. And check with your insurance company too, just in case.

Thank you. I am going to call the PDSA when they open tomorrow x

 

[JudyN]

Good luck

 

[Ross J]

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