Roxie Sleeping in the Car

Poor Roxie seemed to have had an allergic reaction this week. Despite our trip to the vet on Monday, it was unclear as to what could have caused it. She had a small red spot on her chest and one on her leg; she’s also been itchy but thank God she doesn’t have fleas.

Another thing I’m thankful for is that the visit was free and only took a few minutes. I take her to Banfield at Petsmart off of Wendover Avenue in Greensboro; Banfield is a pet hospital located in most  Petsmart stores. Roxie is under the Basic Wellness Plan  in which I pay less than $25 per month. Luckily, the plan includes all of her preventive care needs such as vaccinations, comprehensive exams, parasite exams, and many other exams, as well as a 10% discount on other products and services. It also includes unlimited free office visits and physical exams. I paid a one-time membership fee of about $70 and in one year, I will have spent just over $350 (monthly costs included.) According to a poll, dog owners spent over $500 on an average in 2010 to cover vet check ups.

Many people confuse Banfield’s Optimum Wellness Plans with pet insurance. They are actually quite different. The distinction is that insurance generally covers illnesses and injury should it happen, and my plan at Banfield covers preventive care she needs. Some other differences between the wellness plan and pet insurance can be found here.

Overall, I have been very satisfied with Banfield so far. I had to spend in the neighborhood of $40 for Roxie’s medication and shampoo, but she appears to be doing a little bit better. And that, to me, is priceless.

The post Foxy Roxie: Allergic Reactions & Preventive Care appeared first on Avant Greensboro.