How Much Does the Measles Mumps Rubella Vaccine Cost?

The measles mumps rubella vaccine, also known as the MMR vaccine, improves an individual’s immunity to measles, an infection in the respiratory system caused by a virus and is characterized by fever and the three Cs:  cough, coryza and conjunctivitis.  Known to be a highly contagious viral disease, it has the potential to become fatal if not taken care of.  The measles virus is known to cause fevers, coughs, pink eye and rashes, while mumps can cause headaches, leading to deafness, painful swelling or even meningitis.  Rubella, which is also known as the German measles, can cause fevers, rashes and even arthritis.  If a pregnant woman were to get it, she could miscarry or see serious birth defects.

This vaccination is part of any child’s normal vaccination schedule and will often be included in your child’s well visits.

The price of this vaccine depends on the medical facility where it will be administered and where you live.

“hypodermic needle IMG_7418” (CC BY 2.0) by stevendepolo

How much does the MMRV vaccination cost?

On average, the MMRV vaccination can cost anywhere from $58 to as much as $155+.  For those who have health insurance policies, check with the policy to learn more about your coverage as it may be covered 100 percent.  Medicare will cover it as it’s 100 percent part of Part D and the Advantage plans.  For those outside of Medicare, plan on spending anywhere from $0 to $65 if you were insured.  These are the prices for the vaccination only and won’t include a doctor’s office visit fee if you were to visit your local doctor’s office.

According to the site CDC.gov, the price for the MMR vaccine can range anywhere from $67 to $190.  Two of the most common brands includes M-M-R®II and ProQuad®.

The Minute Clinic located inside CVS stores administers this vaccine and states the prices start at $75.

MMRV vaccination overview

The measles vaccine will protect the recipient from measles and will be a two-dose series for children and as one dosage as an adult.  The first dosage is usually given at 12 months old and is highly recommended as a childhood vaccine since it is recommended to enter schools in most states.  The second dosage will be administered at four to six years old, but as long as it’s at least longer than 28 days from the first vaccination, there shouldn’t be an issue..

What are the extra costs?

If the vaccination is done at a local doctor’s office, your visit to the doctor can result in an additional minimum office visit fee, usually around $50 to $100.

Tips to know:

If you’re finding that you’ve had an allergic reaction to the first shot, it’s imperative that you avoid any other shots in the future.

Common side effects that can occur after this vaccine has been administered can include high fever, bruising, vomiting, weakness as well as problems with various body functions.

Adults, who were born before 1956 and didn’t get the MMR vaccine should highly consider getting this vaccination.  If you’re unsure if you have ever received this vaccination, then you can either check with your local health department or doctor’s office for an official record.

How can I save money?

The measles vaccine will most likely be covered by your insurance provider.  You may want to check with them if they will cover the cost partially or in full.  Again, this will depend on your insurance policy.

Check with local health departments in your local county to see when they give out the shots.  This is a great way to get the shot for a lower price or even for free if you meet certain income requirements.

Merck, the provider of this vaccination, has a program called Merck Helps.  This program is available from local and state governments, and it’s designed to help you get the drugs at a reduced cost if you meet certain income requirements.

Going to a local pharmacy can be much cheaper than going to your doctor’s office; however, if your child is due for this vaccination, your doctor will more than likely include it in your child’s wellness visit, which should be covered 100 percent by your insurance.

Comments (2)

How Much Does a Mechanical Bull Cost?

A mechanical bull is a machine that replicates the sensation of riding a bucking animal such as a horse or a bull.  This machine is powered by a motor and its speed can be adjusted depending on the preference of the rider.  The mechanical bull is usually surrounded by a padded flooring that can prevent injuries if the rider falls off the machine.

The price for a mechanical bull depends on the material being used, the size of the machine and the company selling it.

“Mechanical Bull” (CC BY-SA 2.0) by  Mini D

How much does a mechanical bull cost?

On average, a mechanical bull can cost anywhere from $3,500 to as much as $11,000, depending on the factors mentioned above.  Renting a mechanical bull monthly can cost anywhere from $350 to $550 per month.

For example, the mechanical bull manufactured by USAJumping.com retails for $8,900.

MechanicalBullSales.com, an online retailer, offers different types of mechanical bulls with different designs, ranging anywhere from $2,000 to $10,000.

MechanicalBulls.com, for example, leases out its mechanical bulls for $500 to $650 per month.  They offer free delivery as well as free installation for the mechanical bull.

Mechanical bull overview

All of the tools and accessories needed to operate it will come included with purchase or rental.  It will have a control station where the operator can control the speed and power of the machine from a distance.  Speeds can generally be controlled at 10 different speeds and most models will run on a small three to 15 horsepower motor.  Depending on the company, the bull may have a built-in padding area, similar to an air mattress, surrounding it, equipped with an air blower.

Higher quality mechanical bulls may have pre-set rides installed on the control panel, along with built-in speakers, microphones, and music and video inputs.

While most will plug into a standard 110-volt socket, some may require a dedicated 220-volt line.

What are the extra costs?

For commercial usage, a separate liability insurance policy is something to consider.

If the bull doesn’t come with an air mattress, a customized or standard size will be required.  These mattresses should be double stitched, fireproof and will have side walls that measure at least two feet in height.

Due to the size of these bulls, additional shipping expenses may be applied since it can’t be shipped via most traditional shipping methods.

Tips to know

Mechanical bulls will usually require an area that’s at least 20 by 20 feet and ceilings that are at least 12 feet high.  Based on the model you purchase, you may need a separate breaker to run a dedicated 220-volt electrical line.

Due to the size, a door wider than 36 inches may be required.

How can I save money?

Mechanical bulls can be rented or purchased.  If you are not going to use it often, you may want to consider renting the machine rather than buying it.  By doing this, it will help you save on maintenance costs as well as avoiding to pay the full price of the machine.  It can also give you the opportunity to test it to see if it’s something you want to invest in.

Highly consider purchasing the machine used.  Sites such as eBay have a selection of bulls starting at $1,000.  If purchasing a bull using this route, be sure to include the shipping costs.  If you’re going to pick it up in a local area, be sure to look at the weight of the bull to ensure that you’ll have enough people to pick it up as well as load it up.  It’s also best to try it in person to ensure that it works.

Financing options can be available through some retailers.

Comments (2)

How Much Do Meeting Rooms Cost?

Meeting rooms are often considered rooms where meetings or training sessions are usually held, commonly found in hotel chains across the United States.  They are usually rented by companies if there is no space available to hold these events in their private office or they need to meet in a particular location.

Meeting rooms will often provide a well-furnished meeting space that includes tables, chairs, a screen and other amenities to make the meeting as successful as possible.

The price for meeting rooms depends on several factors such as the size of the room, the equipment included in the room, the venue/hotel you’re using and the geographical location of the meeting room.

“Hilton Union square meeting rooms space” (CC BY 2.0) by cote

How much do meeting rooms cost?

On average, the price to rent a meeting room can be as little as $20 to as much as $500 per hour.  Most companies are going to spend anywhere from $20 to $75 per hour.

Cubicles that fit 1 to 3 people can cost $10 to $20 per hour, while conference rooms that fit up to six to eight people can cost upwards of $18 to $35 per hour.  Larger rooms that accommodate 10 to 15 people can cost $40 to $60 per hour.  Larger meeting rooms that hold more than 100 people can be close to the $150 to $300 price range.

According to DavinciMeetingRooms.com, the price for meeting rooms ranges anywhere from $25 to $53 per hour depending on the location.

Regus.com has meeting rooms located in various locations, and according to the website, they offer rooms ranging anywhere from $45 to $104 per hour.

We were able to research a few popular hotel chains throughout the United States and were able to come up with the average meeting room price listed in our table below.  Keep in mind these rates can greatly vary depending on your geographical location:

Meeting rooms overview

Meeting room rates, at a minimum, should include the basic accessories and materials needed to facilitate a meeting or conference.  This will include the tables, chairs, a projection screen and sometimes the audio equipment and projector for a fee.  Some companies will provide pens and papers while others will have a TV, internet connection as well as video conferencing.

These meeting rooms can either be rented for half the day (four hours), a full day (around eight hours) or for 24 hours, referred to as a 24-hour hold.

Depending on the hotel and venue, some may only have one dedicated room, while others may have various options.  According to our research, most of your three-star hotel chain brands, such as the Hampton Inn and Holiday Inn, would have meeting rooms that range anywhere from 600 to 1,000 square feet, while the Doubletree and Hilton brands could accommodate larger groups, oftentimes offering rooms larger than 3,000 square feet.

What are the extra costs?

Internet, phone or fax access may be an additional fee depending on the company rules.

Food and beverage may be served if a hotel has a restaurant on its premises.

Taxes and miscellaneous fees may apply.

How can I save money?

Consider meeting in an area that does not require a payment up front.  Places such as a library, park or even a restaurant can be more cost effective than a meeting room.  Be creative when it comes to picking out a meeting space.  As long as you don’t have more than five people, it shouldn’t be that hard to find a place that can accommodate you.  SpeakernetNews.com has a few ideas to lower your meeting room costs.

Don’t choose a room that had a lot of added commodities if these are not necessary because you will probably be paying more for this type of room.

If holding a meeting at a restaurant, consider calling up ahead of time to have a room set up.  Many can offer bulk menus to bring the costs down.

Booking a hotel meeting room can often lead to discounted hotel rooms as well.

Comments (0)

How Much Do Pearls Cost?

A pearl is a hard object that is created within the soft tissue of a living shelled mollusk. It is made of calcium carbonate, usually valued as a piece of jewelry.

The rarest form of pearl is the natural or wild pearl which does not have any human intervention.  A cultured pearl is formed via a pearl farm using a human during its natural process.

The price of a pearl depends on the size, the jeweler selling it, shape, luster, color, the type and its rarity.

“pearls” (CC BY-SA 2.0) by  FergieFam007

How much do pearls cost?

Pearls are usually manufactured into a piece of jewelry and can be sold in different forms, commonly found as earrings and necklaces.  On average, a pearl can cost anywhere from as little as $60 to as much as $20,000 or more for the rarest type on the market.   Refer to our table below to see the most common types on the market, along with the costs you may pay.

Today, keep in mind that most pearls aren’t naturally grown, but rather, they are cultured pearls that are man-made.  This is the norm for most that are within the industry, and you will find that a natural pearl can be very hard to find.

According to Pearls of Joy, the average strand of pearls can range anywhere from $35 to more than $35,000+

Factors that affect the cost

Shape

Round pearls will almost always be in demand since this what most people envision when they think of a pearl.  However, it doesn’t mean it will be the most expensive pearl shape because some often enjoy the non-round pearls, too.

Surface

The cleaner the surface looks, the more it can cost.  Since it’s a real gemstone, there will almost always be a slight imperfection, even if you can’t see it with your own eyes.

Luster

Touching on the surface point, the luster refers to the surface as well.   Since all customers are looking for a higher quality pearl with a nearly mirror-like appearance, the brilliance is what will make it “pop,” increasing the price in the meantime.

Size

With pearls and other gems in the jewelry world, size will matter.  The larger the pearl is, the more you can expect to pay. When shopping for a pearl, it will be measured in millimeters and even the slightest difference can increase the price quite a bit.

Pearls overview

Any pearl found on the retail market will be marketed as a “cultured pearl” unless it’s labeled as a natural pearl.  All of the pearls noted in our table above will be considered a cultured pearl.  The process will involve surgically implanting an agent that will cause the process of creating a pearl in a farm-like atmosphere.  During this process, the pearl being created will be spherical in shape and will have an environment similar to its natural surroundings.  Because of this process, it can be very hard for jewelers, even if they are experienced, to distinguish the difference between a natural and cultured pearl.  The only way to tell a difference is via an x-ray since a natural pearl will show internal formations and stages of its growth, whereas a cultured pearl will have a solid center with no signs of growth.

Pearl colors can include white, natural white, black, golden, chocolate, pink and lavender.

Tips to know:

A “black” pearl really isn’t black; instead, it’s a darker gray with shades of green and blue.

If purchasing from a retailer/jeweler for the first time, pay close attention to the return policy.  Pearls of Joy, the resource we mentioned earlier, said you should almost always deal with a retailer that specializes in pearls only.  This way, you can talk with an expert who knows the cultured pearl market.

To spot a fake pearl, gently grind the pearl across your teeth.  If it seems smooth, then it’s a fake.  A real one will have a gritty feel to it.

Of 8,000 or so species of oysters, only 20 are able to produce pearls.

Comments (0)

How Much Do Peonies Cost?

Peonies belong to the flowering plant family known as “Paeoniaceae,” this type of plant usually grows in parts of the world such as Asia, Europe and North America.

The price of peonies depends on the type, the number of peonies to be purchased, the time of year, and where these flowers are purchased.  Since they are found in a wide variety of colors and be purchased year round, they can be in demand all season.

“peony” (CC BY 2.0) by  hello-julie

How much do peonies cost?

On average, peonies can cost anywhere from $2 for a packet of seeds to as much as $3 to $10 per stem, greatly depending on the time of year.  For instance, the peak season will be from April to June, and during this time, the stems will be at its lowest cost, usually around $3 to $6 per stem.  During the offseason, which will be from June to April, the costs can double, ranging anywhere from $10 to $15 per stem.  The very limited season, according to Ever After Guide, can be during October and February, a time when you pay at least $15 per stem.

The colors you choose can also affect the price.  Oftentimes, the whites will cost more than a pink, but there may not be much of a difference if you were to purchase wholesale.

A packet of 500 poppy flower seeds, for example, retails for $4 to $7.  A Japanese Tree Peony that is in full bloom, on the other hand, can retail for $27 to $39 from local nurseries.

A forum member on Weddingbee.com said she had paid $144 for a bouquet of five peonies, 12 cabbage roses and 10 ranunclus.  On that same forum thread, another member was quoted $200 to $250 for 18 to 20 stems.

If peonies will be part of a wedding bouquet, florists often include peonies, roses and ranunclus in the same bouquet.  The average price, depending on the florist you go with, will charge anywhere from $130 to $285 based on the research we had done online.

Peonies overview

Native to Asia and North America, these flowers can grow as tall as five to 10 feet.  These plants will have large, fragrant flowers that come in colors that include pink, white and yellow, but you can go with just about any color scheme imaginable.

These flowers tend to bloom in the late spring and there are more than 200 different varieties on the market.   The most popular ones you will see on the market will include the Shirley Temple, Sarah Bernhardt and Duchess to Nemours.

When in season, you should be able to find them at local farmer’s markets and even at specialty grocers such as Trader Joe’s.

What are the extra costs?

If you do not meet the minimum purchase requirements for peonies sold on a specific website, you may have to pay for the shipping and handling fee.

Future brides can have bouquets created that are customized.  These bouquets can include various kinds of peonies that range in colors and types.  The average customized bouquet filled with Peonies can start at $75.

Tips to know:

These types of flowers actually like a little chill in the air.  These flowers tend to do quite well in areas such as Vermont and many other deep Southern states.  Try your best to measure the rainfall every week.  If the rainfall is less than one inch within the week, it’s going to be probably best to water them to ensure that they are getting enough moisture in the soil.

While experts recommend that you plant them in the direct sun, it doesn’t hurt to have them protected by the afternoon sun with a little shade.

You will be able to find peonies all year, but the best time to purchase them, as mentioned above, will be from April to June.  If you purchase during the colder months, you may have to special order them since your local florist may not have them freshly in stock.

If you purchase during a season when these flowers aren’t in bloom and the florist has to purchase them via special order, then you may have to comitt to a minimum amount of stems before they process the order.

How can I save money?

To save money, look for the store that can offer the best wholesale price for peonies if you are planning to buy them in bulk, which is usually more than 20.  There are stores that offer the plant at a discounted price.

Put the bouquet together yourself to save the exorbitant florist fees.

Comments (0)

How Much Does Jewelry Engraving Cost?

Jewelry engraving is mostly done to personalize a piece of jewelry by incising a name or logo on it and is usually applied to a wedding or engagement ring.   However, it can be done to almost any piece of jewelry for any reason.

The price of jewelry engraving depends on the type of design that you will engrave on the ring, what type of engraving, the complexity of this design and the jeweler/professional performing the job.

“Class Ring” (CC BY 2.0) by mrbill

How much does jewelry engraving cost?

On average, jewelry engraving can cost anywhere from $10 to $100 depending on the factors mentioned above.  Some services may also charge based on the number of characters.  For example, according to our research, a simple wedding band can be engraved for $25 to $100 if you were to use a machine.  If you were to have the jewelry engraved by hand, then the costs could be double or triple the amount.  For instance, Tiffany & Co charges $30 for three letters or $60 for a per of cuff links, for example.  Machine engraving, though, will be $15 per three items or $30 for a pair of cufflinks.

According to GemAffair.com, a jewelry engraving service, provides its services for anywhere from $10 to $15.

Higher end jewelry engraving services such as CelticJewelry.com offers engraving services that range anywhere from $20 to $100.  Six characters, for instance, will cost about $20, while additional characters can cost $5 each.

On WeddingBee.com, members who were recently married paid anywhere from as little as $18 to more than $150 to have their wedding ring engraved.

Jewelry engraving overview

Before the engraving process starts, the engraver will allow you to choose the fonts, what it is going to say, as well as show you on a computer what it is going to look like before the project even starts.  The process, depending on how busy the professional is, generally takes anywhere from one to two days.

Most companies will have a specific minimum before they work with you, usually about $10 or so.

What are the extra costs?

Professionals may also charge a setup fee that can cost $5 to $10.

Most services will charge per a certain amount of characters, and if you need more than this amount, each additional character can be an additional charge.

Expedited shipping or services that have to be done within 48 hours can result in an additional fee.

Stock logos or designs will often be included in the quote, but if you want something customized and unique, the costs can be more.

If the engraving is on a piece of jewelry that is worn often, such as a wedding ring, the engraving may need to be retouched or redone in the future.  This will most likely be charged the same as the original engraving.

Tips to know:

When choosing an engraving service, make sure that the engravings are done by a graduate jeweler that is certified.  It doesn’t hurt to ask how the engraving is going to be done.  Many will be done in-house while others can be shipped to another location.  It’s best to consider an in-house service since this will lessen the chance of the ring from getting lost.

Before you consider meeting with an expert, try jotting down exactly what you want.  Do you want it for a certain event?  Do you want a certain font?  Do you want a certain date?  These are perfect questions to ask so that you can have the perfect engraving job.

Some companies may have restrictions, so it’s best to check ahead of time.  For instance, Tiffany & Co. won’t engrave numbers or punctuation marks, and they will only engrave in upper case letters.

How can I save money?

To save money, you will need to make sure that you compare prices with at least three different jewelers.  Many are going to offer the services at different prices and you would want to go with the place that can offer engraving services at the lowest price possible.

Comments (2)

How Much Does Pet Sitting Cost?

In-home pet sitting is a service that can be provided by an individual or a company, and the advantages of having one reduces the stress on a pet and no travel is required since the animal can stay in its natural surroundings.  It also doesn’t expose your pet to other illnesses in a kennel.

These services are available to watch any animal, whether it’s a dog, cat, bird or reptile, if it breathes, a professional can stop by and take care of its daily essential needs.

The cost of pet sitting will vary depending on who is going to do the job, the number of pets, the number of days needed, if any extra services are required and the geographical location.

“Dog” (CC BY-SA 2.0) by matsuyuki

How much does pet sitting cost?

On average, a professional pet sitting service can charge anywhere from $11 to $30 per visit, per animal.  These visits will last no more than 30 minutes on average, but exceptions if can be made if you wanted to have the pet sitter stay overnight, for instance.

Cats, most of the time, are going to cost less than a dog since they need less attention and only one visit per day.

For a dog, some pet sitters may need to come out up to three to five times a day for bathroom breaks and checkups if kept indoors.  This can result in a total fee of $45 to $75 per day.

If for some reason your pet requires 24-hour care, the costs can be about $175 to $250 per 24 hours.  This option is often only required if your pet were to have surgery and needed to be monitored.

For example, Four on the Floor Pet Sitting located in Michigan charges $15 to $25 per visit.  Overnight stays can cost $55 to $75 per night.

A study conducted by Rover.com found the average night of dog sitting booked through the website was $25, but during the busy season, during holidays and in certain parts of the United States, the average cost was higher.

Factors that affect the cost

The number of pets

Caring for more than one pet will require more attention, which of course, can lead to a higher price tag.  While it won’t be double the cost “per pet,” it can add another $5 to $15 per pet.

Type of pet

A cat, as mentioned above, will require a lot less work than a dog that requires a potty break five times per day.

How many visits per day?

Some pet sitters will have a certain amount of times they want to stop by, while you may be able to simply tell them when to stop by.  For instance, if you were away for 24 hours, then they may want to stop by five or seven times, but if you were at work, one visit in the afternoon may suffice.

Anything special?

Some pet sitters can do more than just watch your pets.  They can water plants, get your mail, take out the trash and more.  If you need any of these additional services, additional fees may apply.

Do they need to stay overnight?

Pet sitters will be more than happy to stay the night with your pet if you feel your animal won’t do well alone.  In our price estimates mentioned above, a pet sitter will charge $50 or more for an overnight stay, on average.

Where you live:

With anything charged in life, where you live will matter.  A larger metropolitan area, such as New York City, will cost much more than a rural town in the middle of South Dakota.

Pet sitting overview

Before you hire a pet sitter, they will more than likely meet with your pets ahead of time and will set up a schedule, letting you know exactly when they will come out.

With each visit, the pet sitter will feed, refill the water, and if necessary, the animal will be taken out for exercise.  If the animal is on any sort of medication, they will be able to administer this as well, usually for an additional fee.

What are the extra costs?

Each additional animal will add to the overall price; however, most sitters are more than happy to give a discount for each additional pet.

If supplies such as food have to be purchased during the visit or a veterinarian visit is needed due to a health problem, additional fees can apply depending on the situation.

Walking a dog can cost an additional $10 to $20 per day per animal.  While some pet sitters may include this in their services, some charge extra.  Be sure to ask ahead of time.

Daily reports can be sent by email or by phone.  Some may include this, but others can charge.

Overnight stays that require more than 12 hours of time can be extra.  Major holidays can cost extra as well.

If your pet needs any sort of medication, additional fees may apply, which can usually be around $5 per dosage.

How can I save money?

Consider taking the animal to a local reputable kennel.  Kennels can be cheaper than a pet sitter and your pet will have 24/7 supervision.  See: “How much does a dog kennel cost?”

Talk with a neighbor to see if they can watch your animal.  Neighbors may be more than happy to check on your animal for a small fee, especially if you can trade services with them if they have animals.  You could also consider paying a child in your neighborhood a much smaller fee than a professional pet sitter.

Many pet sitting services will offer first-time customer deals.  Look for these promotions and take advantage of them.  Not only will these promotions give you an opportunity to try out the service, it’s going to save you a little bit of money in the process as well.

Comments (0)

How Much Does It Cost to Euthanize a Dog or Cat?

Pet euthanasia is the act of putting an animal to death painlessly, and this procedure is commonly done when an animal is no longer comfortable with life.

The cost of pet euthanasia is going to vary depending on the shelter/vet performing the procedure, the geographical location, the size of the animal and if they have to come to you.

“Sad Mumby” (CC BY 2.0) by angela n.

How much does pet euthanasia cost?

On average, the cost of euthanasia can cost anywhere from $25 to $350.  If you take the body home, which some shelters allow, the costs can be $25 to $70.  If you want a general cremation with no ashes returned, then the costs can be in the $100 to $150 range.  For those who want the body cremated, the costs will depend on how what kind of cremation you want:  either shared or individually.  Depending on your preferences, this option can cost $150 to $350, plus the cost of a memorable item.

Euthanasia performed at a local shelter or in a veterinarian office can cost $25 to $150, while an at-home procedure can cost $225 to $350.

For example, the Animal Humane Society in Minnesota charges anywhere from $10 to as much as $85 depending on the animal that is being put down, while in Miami, Florida, the county offers to put down animals that are ill for a flat fee of $25.

According to a forum thread on GardenWeb.com, forum members claimed that they had paid anywhere from $50 to as much as $200.  For a basic euthanasia, this would be done in the vet’s office, but for those who are requesting the ashes back in an urn, the costs will almost double.

On PetMD.com, they broke down a cremation bill someone had received.  After the office call, IV catheter, sedation, euthanasia solution and private cremation, the grand total was $645.

Seniortailwaggers.com says the average cost of clinical euthanasia will cost $75 to $350, depending on where you live, and the cost of at-home euthanasia can cost $300 to $800, depending on what kind of services you choose.

Pet euthanasia overview

During the procedure, the vet may administer a tranquilizer to help relax the pet.  Once the tranquilizer has kicked in, the second one will be applied that will cause the heart to stop, and once the heart has stopped, the vet will then transport the body according to your wishes.  This may include cremation with the ashes returned to you, or in some cases, the body will be returned to be buried at an approved location.  If you do plan on burying your pet, however, check with local ordinances to make sure it’s allowed.

The process can either be done at your vet’s office or in the comfort of your own home, and you can stay in the room while the tranquilizer is administered.  The at-home method is ideal for those who either have a pet that’s too sick to travel or for pets that get very anxious when going to the vet.  It also puts you, the pet owner, in control of the situation since it will be done in comfortable surroundings.

What are the extra costs?

As noted in the PetMD source we mentioned earlier, additional fees may show up on your itemized vet bill.  This may include fees for IV catheters, the disposal of needles and/or an office examination fee.  This will all depend on the vet you go to, so it’s important to talk with the office to know exactly what you’re going to pay.

Cremation can cost anywhere from $125 to $300 depending on the size of the animal and type of cremation you choose.  For instance, a group cremation where your pet is cremated with others will cost about $100, while an individual cremation can cost closer to $300.  Once created, you can then choose to purchase an urn or vase to store the ashes.  Depending on your preference, it can cost anywhere from as little as $30 to more than $150.  Other memorialization options include a garden stone or a locket jewelry.

To have the animal buried in the local cemetery, the fees can cost $300 to $800 for the plot.  Headstones can cost extra depending on what type of headstone is purchased, and this is going to vary depending on the size of the animal.

Some vets can come directly to the home.  If the vet is required to come to the home directly, most will charge anywhere from $50 to as much as $200 extra do so.  This will greatly depend on the distance they have to travel and where you live.

Tips to know

Most vets will not put down an animal that is not ill.  If the animal is healthy and does not have and behavioral problems, there is a good chance vets will reject your request.

Those who have had to put their animals down recommend paying ahead of time so that it’s one less thing to worry about when you arrive at the vet’s office.

How can I save money?

Consider taking the animal to a local vet.  At home services are going to cost significantly more since they have to come to you.  After the procedure is done, consider buying a small memorial stone for your home rather than getting a cemetery plot or having your pet cremated.

Consider taking the animal to the local Humane Society or the local county if you can’t afford the procedure.  These non-profit organizations are cheaper than a for-profit vet office.

Low-income options may be available for those who may not be able to afford the cremation.  Check with the local animal shelter in your city to see what options you may have.

Comments (0)

How Much Does Pet Insurance Cost?

Pet insurance is similar to a personal health insurance policy, except that it is for animals.  A pet insurance policy will cover some or all vet bills depending on the coverage and company.  On average, in the United States, most insurance policies will cover up to 90% of the health fees, and most pet owners sign up for a policy to protect themselves from expensive medications and treatments.

The cost of pet insurance will depend on the company issuing the policy, the type of animal, age, gender, breeder, the policy and where you live.

“IMG_0410.JPG” (CC BY 2.0) by scottfeldstein

How much does pet insurance cost?

On average, most insurance policies for both cats and dogs are going to cost anywhere from $15 to $68 per month.  Keep in mind that most policies will not insure older pets older than seven or pets with a pre-existing condition such as cancer, but this will vary from provider to provider. A dog is going to cost more than a cat by at least $5 to $10 per month, and the age and breed will play a big role on the final monthly premium.  Like a health insurance policy for a human being, the more inclusions you want, the more you’re going to pay.

Dogs commonly known to have health problems such as the pug or bulldog can have a higher premium, while a breed such as a beagle can be toward the lower end because of a great health history.

Refer to our table below to see what most of the popular pet insurance companies are charging.

NOTE:  These are ballpark estimates.  Outside of the deductible, each plan can offer different features and premiums. All rates will be heavily dependent upon the breed, pet, age and other conditions.

Factors that affect the cost

Where you live

Pet Insurance Quotes recently did a study and had found that the costs across the United States wildly vary depending on where you live.  In Alabama, for example, a dog could cost an average of $35 per month, while a dog in California could cost $46 per month for the same policy.  The main reason because of the geographical location is due to the local cost of living and animal hospital charges.  As you can imagine, a larger city will always be much more than a smaller town.

The breed

Pet insurance rates will vary among breeders because some breeds are more susceptible to certain health conditions.  For example, a German Sheperd is known to have more problems than a short haired cat.  If your breed is known for hereditary disorders, such as cancer or hip dysplasia, then you can count on your policy being higher.

Age

Like health insurance for us humans, the older your pet is, the more your policy is going to be.  As your pet ages, the chances of illness or injury is going to greatly increase.

Coverage

What kind of inclusions will you want in your pet insurance policy?  All pet insurance companies will offer a variety of coverage options, ranging from a simple comprehensive policy that only covers emergencies to policies that cover everything, including wellness visits.  The most common policies on the market will include major medical policies, which will only cover major medical procedures, accident only policies, which will only cover accidents, and wellness policies, which will cover any wellness-related activity.  The deductible and reimbursement rate can also affect the price.  The higher your deductible is, the lower your premium will be.

Pet insurance overview

The average deductible can range from $50 to $1,000, while the co-pay can range from 15% to 60% of the total cost of the service.  Be sure to read the fine print because many providers have a cap on a number of benefits given out in one year.  With most policies, pre-existing conditions will not be covered.

Most policies will cover illnesses, injuries, hereditary conditions, diagnostic tests, surgeries, hospital stays, supplements and prosthetic devices.  Before coverage kicks in, most insurance companies will have a 30-day waiting period.  Pet insurance policies will cover just about anything besides preventative care (unless purchased separately) and preexisting conditions.

What are the extra costs?

Most common insurance policies will not cover preventative procedures such as vaccinations and checkups, but some policies can add on preventative maintenance premiums.  This can add another $10 to $35 to the monthly bill.

As your pet grows old, plan on watching your premium increase.

Tips to know:

Over the lifetime of a pet, you could potentially shell out as much as $6,000.  Chances of you spending that much on your pet are very slim.  With that being said, be sure to know if the insurance is worth the cost because you may find that it’s best to pay for your pet’s health bills straight out of pocket.

Take a look at the deductible when applying for the insurance policy.  Also, be sure to know what kind of co-pay and deductible you will have to pay if something were to happen.

Just like a human policy, pre-existing conditions may not be covered.  Hip dysplasia, for example, may not be covered at all.  Again, with any insurance policy, always refer to the fine print to know what’s going to be covered in the future.

The older the dog is, the more the premiums are probably going to be.  Check the with the insurance provider and ask them how much age plays a factor.

KNOW what’s covered.  You may find that routine exams aren’t covered.

How can I save money?

Policyholders can pay an entire year up front, resulting in a significant discount.  This discount can save 20% off the entire policy.

Adding more than one animal to the policy can bring down the overall cost.  The more animals that are added to the policy, the more can be saved per animal.

Discounts may be available to senior citizens or active military.

Spayed and neutered pets will often be much cheaper to insure.

Compare at least three different policies as they will all vary.  Pet insurance may not be cost effective, so be sure to explore the options of paying out of pocket before paying a premium.  Consider looking for insurance companies that allow you to test run the policy for free or even $1 for the first month.

If you decide that you don’t want a policy, try a low-cost vet clinic.  These non-profits can perform procedures at a fraction of the cost.

Comments (0)

How Much Does a PET Scan Cost?

A PET scan, also known as a positron emission tomography, is a nuclear medicine technique that can produce detailed 3D images.  This test will detect radiation from the emission of positrons, which are smaller particles that are emitted from the radioactive material the scan emits.  With this test, it will help reveal how the tissues are organs are functioning inside your body.  This type of scan is often preferable because it can show how the tissues and organs are working rather than just showing them, and most physicians will recommend this scan for the brain, breasts, lungs and/or heart if they suspect cancer or another disease.

“CAT scan donut” (CC BY 2.0) by .:. brainsik

How much does a pet scan cost?

On average, the cost of a PET scan can be anywhere from $1,500 to as much as $9,500 without health insurance.  The cost will depend on which facility you use and where you live.  For example, a whole body scan could cost about $4,500, while a PET scan of the brain and heart could cost closer to $7,000.

For those who have health insurance, most policies will cover a scan such as this one as long as it is medically necessary.  Since each health insurance policy differs, it is important to talk with the health insurance company to find out what is covered.  According to some reports online, it appears Medicare will pay for one PET scan per year.

ChoosingWisely.org says the average scan can cost $7,000 or more, and this price won’t include the added tests and procedures done ahead of time due to false alarms.

According to ComparePETScanCost.com, the average cost can be $3,000 to $6,000, depending on the technical fees, professional fees and FDG radiopharmaceutical fees.

We did some research and had found some prices publicly listed online with hospitals throughout the United States.  The price averages we had found are listed in the table below:

PET scan overview

Before the procedure begins, a small amount of radioactive material will be injected into the patient, and the patient will be asked to wait for up to an hour to allow the chemical to be absorbed.  After this hour is up, the patient will then enter a scanning machine and will be asked to stand still for up to 30 minutes as the images of the organs are taken.  With these results, a radiologist will be able to review the results in a few days and give them to the providing doctor.  Plan on staying at the facility for about three hours.

This scan will be able to reveal the exact shape, size, position and the function of the organs inside the body.  With this test, it helps the doctors diagnose disorders, cancers, and if cancer is present, how far it has spread throughout the body.

What are the extra costs?

An initial office exam will be necessary to discuss your options.  Due to the higher price of the tests, the doctor will want to ensure that the patient can benefit from the procedure.

Additional fees such as technical and professional fees may be on top of the scan fee.  This will vary from hospital to hospital.

Due to the complexity of this test, cancellation fees can cost upwards of $500 if not canceled more than 24 hours in advance.

After the test has been completed, the doctor will receive a report.  This may result in a follow-up visit to discuss them.

Copies of CD and films may be an additional cost.  This is going to greatly depend on the doctor’s office policy.

Tips to know

According to XRANM, before the procedure, a doctor will ask that you don’t eat or drink for six hours prior to the injection time and avoid exercise on the day of the exam.  The last meal before your test should be high in protein and low in carbohydrates.

The risks of a PET scan are very minimal.  The amount of radiation will be low, and according to petscaninfo.com, the radiopharmaceutical decays quickly, leaving no detectable radioactivity after hours.

How can I save money?

It is very important to talk with various hospitals as all their quotes are going to greatly vary.  You may find that doing some research can save you up to $3,000.  Comparison sites such as NewChoiceHealth.com can help find the best quote.

If uninsured, talk with the hospital to see if you can get a cash discount.  If the balance is placed on a credit card or paid in cash, many hospitals are more than willing to offer a discount of up to 40%.

Comments (2)