How Much Does the Good Feet Store Cost?

The Good Feet Store provides custom orthotics arch supports designed to provide a firm, yet flexible function which is necessary to help correct any poor foot biomechanics.

“Walking Shoes for High Arches Support” (CC BY 2.0) by gm.esthermax

How much do arch supports cost at the Good Feet Store?

According to the company, the arch supports are only available at an authorized Good Feet Store, and the reason being is that they will have to fit with precision by a specially trained Arch Support Specialist.  The arch supports, from what we researched, greatly vary across the United States, but in most cases, you will be offered two options:  a lifetime guarantee or a 30-day guarantee.  The average lifetime guarantee, which would replace the supports at a 50 percent discount if they wore out averaged close to $1,000 for about three supports, whereas the 30-day guarantee would average about $350 and would not receive a discount if they were to wear out after the 30 days.

With hundreds of testimonials online, we gathered as many estimates as we could and included what other people paid at a local Good Feet Store for their arch supports.

On this Yelp review for the San Diego location, countless people left a review claiming what they paid for their insoles.  Glancing at a few, one person paid $1,299 for three arch supports, while another paid $840 for three soles.  Another negative review said if you were careful, you could walk out with a $300 lifetime insert with a $20 annual replacement.

Tips to know

No refunds are given on any arch supports and the company sticks to this strict policy; however, they will offer a store credit only if you’re unsatisfied with the purchase.  In fact, you can find a variety of people selling their new soles directly from the store on eBay for a fraction of what you would pay.  If you know which insert size you need, this may help you save a few dollars.

Dr. Larry Huppin at The Foot and Ankle Center of Washington notes the stores will charge hundreds of dollars but will not be inferior to any other arch supports which may cost about $60.  In his evaluation, the arch supports provide very little support of the mid-portion of the arch, not making them bad or good for that matter.  In the end, he states the buyer should “beware” of the soles and recommends highly doing research before making a purchase.

How to save money

We read countless testimonials that the arches were not worth it.  Reading these reviews here and here, multiple reviewers claimed you could go to Amazon.com and purchase similar soles for as little as $10 to $30+ and the material, when compared to the Good Feet Store, were almost identical.  Again, this is what we read online and cannot be guaranteed.  The Happy Feet insoles and WALKFIT, for example, were highly recommended by most and cost less than $50.

Aside from purchasing on Amazon.com, many also recommended visiting a podiatrist to have a custom arch support made as this could help you save money for two reasons.  For starters, the custom arch supports, which often come from the doctor’s office, will be molded and created by a doctor’s recommendation unlike a sales representative at the Good Feet Store who has no medical experience in no cases.  In some circumstances, the arches of your shoe may not be causing the problem.  Secondly, many reported you could use your health insurance and see some coverage as long as the arch supports were medically necessary and prescribed by the specialist.

If your heart is set on purchasing arch supports from the company, it appears you can negotiate on the price.  Keep in mind that the salespeople stick to a strict script and are relentless in pressuring a sale.  From reading reviews by employees online, it seems most sales representatives will make $10 an hour plus 10% commission.

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How Much Does Fiber Cement Siding Cost?

Fiber cement, a composite material, is made of cement, sand and cellulose fibers, and today, close to 25 percent of new homes will use this material.

Patented in the early 1900s in Austria, this fire, termite and rot resistant siding is usually manufactured as planks or even shingles, often painted a color of your choice.

Even though the initial fiber cement siding did use asbestos fibers, James Hardie Industries, synonymous with this type of siding, eventually created a new form which uses finely-grounded sand with a cement, wood-like slurry to create the planks.

“Cement-Board-Siding” (CC BY 2.0) by Sery Content Development

Fiber cement siding cost

The costs of fiber cement siding will depend on the brand you purchase as many of your big-box retailers will carry popular brands such as James Hardie, GAF WeatherSide, MaxiTile, Allura Plycem and Nichiha USA.  The costs, if you were to simply buy the planks/panels at a local hardware store would cost $1 to $5 per square foot, whereas shingles would cost about $2 to $7 each from what we researched on popular home improvement websites such as Home Depot and Lowe’s.  The actual costs, aside from the brand, will also depend on the color and style as some types may need to be specially ordered at the factory, which can increase the costs.

As for professional installation, including all labor and materials, it’s best to factor about $7 to $12 per square foot, and the costs of hiring a professional contractor will depend on your geographical location, the time of year and the complexity of the job such as the number of levels your home has and the shape of the home.  Professional installation is recommended since fiber cement is heavy when compared to other siding material and will require special cutting tools and additional help. Since it’s hard to offer an exact estimate, we highly recommend checking out HomeAdvisor.com.  Here, you can simply describe your job and multiple contractors will offer a ballpark estimate for free.  To budget, the average 1,500 square foot home will be looking at spending anywhere from $10,500 to $18,000.

Take a look at the table below to see what some of the most popular branded fiber cement siding companies charge.

NOTE:  These are the prices for materials only.  Installation needs to be considered as an additional cost.

Angie’s List notes the average cost, if you were to have it installed, , while vinyl siding can run $3 to $6 per square foot.

This Old House notes that clapboard, the most common type of fiber-cement siding found on the market, can cost $0.70 to $5.25 per square foot uninstalled, and the prices will depend on the size, finish and where it’s sold.

The extra costs to budget for

If you’re replacing your current siding, then there’s a good chance your local city will ask for you to file a permit, which, on average, can cost $xxx.  In the eyes of most cities, they view this type of job as major structural work and an inspector may be necessary.

Old fiber cement siding may have asbestos mixed in with the material.  Seeing it is a dangerous substance, professionals will need to be hired in order to get rid of it as needs to be disposed of properly.

Replacing older siding, while not all the time, may expose other problems which may appear behind the boards.  This could include failing insulation, mold or damp areas which may need professional attention.

Homes on a large slope and/or those with an awkward shape may increase the costs due to the extra hours the contractor will have to invest in the job.

Some contractors may include the insulation in the estimate, but some may recommend new insulation, such as vapor barrier sheathing, when removing the siding to help make your home more efficient.  If they do not include the insulation with the job, this could increase the costs by about $2 per square foot.

Fiber cement will need to be painted or stained, either by a paint shop hired by the lumberyard or the manufacturer.  If you were to choose a unique color, the manufacturer may charge an additional $1 per square foot, while a lumberyard may charge up to $2+ per square foot.

Fiber cement siding vs vinyl siding comparison

Cost. This is often a popular comparison made by homeowners who are either looking to replace their existing siding or install it on a new home.  While vinyl siding will be cheaper by as much as 100%, it doesn’t mean you’re getting value.  On average, fiber cement siding will cost $7 to $12 per square foot installed, as we mentioned, and vinyl siding, on average, can cost $3 to $6 per square foot.

Durability.  Fiber cement siding often comes with a lifetime warranty, whereas vinyl siding will have a warranty that lasts up to 30 years.

Eco-friendly.  Vinyl, made from PVC, is not known to be friendly to the environment, but fiber cement, made from sand, cement and wood fibers, will not impact the environment at a local landfill.

Energy efficiency.  Vinyl has a standard R-Value of .61 while fiber cement has a .5 standard R-value.

Look.  Both sidings, in general, come in a variety of decorative options and colors.  Vinyl siding is known to come in more than 300+ colors, whereas fiber cement, since it can be painted, can be endless.

Installation.  Vinyl siding is extremely simple to install as no special tools are required.  Fiber cement, on the other hand, will require special tools as it weighs much more than standard siding options.

Maintenance.  Vinyl siding will never need to repainted and simply needs to be washed annually.  Fiber cement, over time, will need to be re-painted and inspected periodically for any damage.

Fiber cement siding maintenance

As mentioned, fiber cement siding is resistant to wind, insects, fire, UV rays and other relatable weather elements.  This doesn’t mean it will last a lifetime, however, as you will still need to consider annual maintenance.  This will include inspecting the caulking in between the boards to ensure none of the pieces are peeling apart, have holes and/or cracks.  If so, you will want ot re-caulk the area to keep it performing at it’s best.  If you don’t feel comfortable using a caulking gun, most of the fiber cement siding manufacturers do offer a patching material which can be applied and won’t void your warranty.

Aside from inspecting the caulk, you will also want to wash all of the siding from the top to the bottom with power washer set on a low setting to avoid peeling the paint.  If you do not have access to a power washer, then a garden hose with an attachment can suffice as well.

Plants, if near the home, should always be trimmed away from the home to help avoid moisture for staying near the boards.

The life-cycle

Many companies, if you research, will offer a “lifetime” warranty, and while this is true, experts say you should expect the siding to last more than 50 years.  Be careful with these lifetime guarantees, however, as the flaking and fading will often only be protected for up to 15 years and there will be exclusions, as with many warranties, that the homeowner will need to abide by to keep the warranty active.

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How Much Does Board and Batten Siding Cost?

Board and batten is a type of wood siding which alternates wide boards and narrow-like strips lined up side by side, with all of the seams covered by a strip known as Batten.

Often referred to as barn siding or vertical board siding, this type of siding was commonly associated with barns and cottages, but today, it can be found on modern homes as it offers a timeless yet attractive look.

“IMG_2548” (CC BY 2.0) by jmrodri

The cost of board and batten siding

From our research, the costs for board and batten exterior siding, including professional installation, will be about $4 to $7 per square foot.  The materials, depending on the type of wood being used, and the store it’s purchased from, can cost $2 to $4 per square foot alone, while labor rates can be another $1.50 to $3 per square foot.  If you were to hire a professional contractor, the costs will really depend on your geographical location, the type of board and batten siding and the complexity of the project.  Since these projects can be so unique, we highly recommend you use HomeAdvisor.com to find contractors in your area who are able to offer you a free, no-obligation quote.  Simply describe your job and contractors will contact you with an estimate.

As you can use different types of wood, the costs can vary by more than a few dollars per square foot.  Plywood, pine and fir, for example, are often the most inexpensive options and are often painted over.  A higher-grade, such as a vinyl board and batten or engineered wood, will already come in the color you want and will cost more due to the manufacturing process.

Extra costs to think about

Depending on your situation, there are additional costs, aside from the estimates mentioned above, you may want to think about.  This can include the battens, nails, mounting blocks, soffits and fascia.  Even if you were to hire a professional, they may or may not include this in the initial estimate and could charge a separate cost.  These costs, to budget properly, can safely add another $1.50 a square foot to the estimates above.

While it isn’t an extra cost to think about now, you will want to think about the maintenance involved in the future such as staining/painting, sealing and replacing damaged boards.

What is board and batten siding?

Board and batten siding, considered to be a top “rustic” choice, is a type of vertical siding which will use a flat board, similar to that of a clapboard siding.  These boards usually range anywhere from eight to 12 inches wide and can be as long as 12 feet in length.  The battens, typically one to four inches in width, will usually be the same height as the main boards and are installed between the boards, creating a classic or rural-like look.  As with many siding choices, homeowners are able to customize a look that can complement their home’s overall theme.

Board materials to choose from

Wood – Out of all the material choices, wood tends to be the most popular choice, with cedar, pine, plywood, fir, white oak and redwood being the most popular choices for homeowners.  Besides the natural look, many homeowners choose natural wood for its price point, maintenance and durability.

Vinyl – Like vinyl siding, these boards are molded to create a wood-like appearance.  Even up close, you can still see the wood grains and most won’t even be able to tell from a distance.  The CertainTeed Corporation, for example, offers a variety of color and sizing options.

Engineered Wood – Engineered wood boards are often made from wood chips and a commercial adhesive created when using intense heat.  This type of material is light in weight, extremely durable as it can last more than 25 years.

Board and batten siding pros

Eye-catching design and choices.  Most houses often choose the same-old siding choices, which, unfortunately, doesn’t turn a lot of heads.  Board and batten siding, once installed, can turn heads as it provides a very unique and eye-catching design that’s sure to receive some compliments.

It’s durable.  The reason this siding has been used for hundreds of years is due to its long-lasting durable construction.  When constructed, the method implemented allows the siding to naturally expand and contract in any weather elements, allowing it to prolong its life when compared to other siding materials.  Even in the harshest weather conditions, it can look like new, even years later.

Great for resale value.  Pleasing to the eye, real estate agents note that this type of siding can not only increase your home’s style, it can increase the value as well.

Versatile.  Being real wood, a contractor is able to cut it in any size you can envision.  It can also be installed vertically or horizontally, depending on your preferences.

Board and batten siding cons

Maintenance demands.  As with a lot of materials, board and batten siding will require a lot of upkeep due to it being wood.  This means you will have to frequently powerwash it, seal it and stain/paint it as time goes on.  In general, experts recommend re-staining or painting every 10 years to keep it looking like new.

Termites.  Being wood, even though it may look “fancier,” it doesn’t mean termites won’t gnaw away at it.  This may not be the case, however, if you were to use an engineered wood.

Rot.  If you do decide on real wood, it can lead to wood rot, which is often a problem for any siding or wood material for that matter.  However, if treated and sealed when necessary, this problem can be avoided.

Damage.  Vinyl siding, if you go ahead with this choice, can often crack due to the excessive exposure to the sun, which, for the environmental-friendly folks, can mean the damaged pieces will land in a landfill, eventually affecting the environment.

Board and batten siding installation

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How Much Does an Au Pair Cost?

An au pair, much like a nanny or babysitter, can offer you a consistent live-in situation from someone who is experienced and loves working with children.

This professional, often found through a verified agency, will provide 50+ hours of childcare a week based on your child/s needs for up to two years, regardless of their age.

“Girls on a Mission” (CC BY 2.0) by donnierayjones

How much does an au pair cost?

If you’re considering an au pair, the costs will depend on the agency you plan on working with as all will have its own pricing structure.  In general, an agency will charge an application fee, a program fee, usually split in two, and a mandatory weekly stipend, all of which will vary.  To help break down the costs, we included the averages we found online in the table below:

NOTE:  These are the averages we found at some of the agencies we researched.  To budget, plan on spending about $20,000 for the “all-in” costs if you reside in the United States.

Interexchange.org, on its official website, notes the payment breakdown if you were to hire their agency.  The program fee down payment, which is due upon matching, is $2,500, while the remaining balance, $5,790, is due upon the au pair’s arrival to the United States.  The agency does offer a six-month payment plan for families who need the help splitting up the payments.  Lastly, a SEVIS visa processing fee of $35 will apply as well, bringing the grand total to $8,325 just to get the au pair to your doorstep.  From there, you will be required to pay your au pair $195.75 a week, a minimum stipend which was set by the U.S. Department of State by multiplying the Federal Minimum Wage by the maximum number of hours worked per week, then subtracting 40% for room and board.

The program costs, as per GreatAuPairUSA.com, is $18,514 a year, which equates to $1,543 a month, $356 a week or $7.91 an hour.

CV Harquail at AuPairMom.com broke down the costs of her au pair, and while the post is old, it can offer some insight as to how much you should expect to pay for one.  According to her numbers, she averaged $11 an hour based on a 50 week year, and these costs did not include the costs of training, maintaining her room and the wear and on the vehicle.  In the table breakdown, the final costs for the year were $25,519 for her New Jersey-based family.

What’s included in the agency fees?

A background screening and detailed interview process

J-1 visa sponsorship in order for an au pair to legally arrive and work in the United States

All travel expenses in order to arrive in the United States

Accident/sickness insurance

A local representative from the agency you use to represent you during the time of hire, often offering 24/7 support

All training and orientation to be a successful au pair for your family’s situation

Monthly au pair activities organized by your agency

The extra costs to think about

Some agencies will charge a SEVIS visa processing fee, which can cost upwards of $50.

Domestic travel, even though it was mentioned in the inclusions above, may not be included in fees.

If you plan on allowing your au pair to use your vehicle, then you may want to factor in the insurance increases.  You will be responsible for all travel when they are residing at your home.

The additional room and board expenses as you will be feeding another person, etc.

What does an au pair do?

They can help prepare meals and feed your children throughout the day.

Infant care responsibilities including bottles feeding, diaper changes and even cuddling.

Assistance with any dressing, bathing, grooming and managing a bedtime routine.

Organizing activities, playtime and driving your children to school and extracurricular activities.

Aside from babysitting, they will be able to help do laundry, tidy the home and even help with homework.

The requirements for the hosting family

A reputable agency will always ask for a private, suitable bedroom and meals.

All applicants must be a legal U.S. resident and will agree to speak English inside the home.

Families must always agree to a background check in which they should pass.  An at-home interview will often be conducted as well.

References from family members and non-family members must be submitted.

Agree to comply with the agency rules which dictate how often the au pair can work and when he or she can take time off.  Most au pairs will work no more than 45 hours a week and will receive at least one full weekend off a month, with a two-week vacation annually.

Sign the placement contract and agree to the weekly stipend for the au pair.

Most agencies will want the family to support the au pair in their educational program, often paying money towards the education.

Agencies will often ask you live within its service area, but this can vary from one agency to the next.

The process of hiring an au pair

Most agencies work in the same way, but some may vary in some regards.  The first step, in most cases, will be the application process where you and your family will fill out an application, usually via the official agency’s website and talk to the agency about your expectations.

If approved by the agency, you will then choose an au pair from the agency’s database based on your recommendations.  Most agencies will ask you choose a handful so you can interview them to see if they meet your demands.

Once you find a match, you will schedule an arrival date with the agency, pay the necessary fees and sign a contract in regards to the agency’s rules.  In most cases, the arrival date will need to be about six to eight weeks out, and during this arrival time, the agency will book the flights and assist with the visa process.

When the au pair finally arrives, your agency will assign you a coordinator who will be able to help you with the process, answer any questions you may have and even check in to see how things are going.  Most au pairs will work for 12 months but many families will extend this contract if the au pair allows it.

Is an au pair tax deductible?

Host families, according to AuPairCare.com are not required to withhold taxes from the au pair as your au pair is responsible for declaring their own income and submitting a tax return.  To find out if you can the child and dependent care credit the IRS offers, you can use the official “Am I Eligible to Claim the Child and Dependent Care Credit?” via the IRS.  Depending on your circumstances, your fees paid to the au pair directly may qualify as dependent care in the eyes of the IRS.  For any tax-related questions, refer to your attorney or the IRS directly for more information.  From what we researched, an au pair, as long as living with you, can be deducted, including food, transportation and anything else you pay for them.

Au pair vs. a live-in nanny

Culture.  An au pair, unlike a nanny, can bring their culture directly to your home.  This can include their music, food, crafts and interests.  While a live-in nanny may be able to offer it, most are often from the United States, meaning they will more than likely share the same views/interests.

Costs.  Since an au pair intends to live in the United States and views this as a benefit, this can mean a lower cost when compared to a live-in nanny.  The average costs of a live-in nanny can be closer to $750 a week versus $350 a week for an au pair when all expenses are considered.

Flexible.  With an au pair, you can create a schedule which your au pair can accommodate, seeing they have to commit to 45 hours of childcare every week.

Experience.  A nanny, most of the time, will have more experience, hence, the higher costs.  In most cases, an au pair is looking for the U.S. experience for a few years, while a nanny may want to make a career out of it.

Language.  As mentioned, you’re essentially hiring an au pair from a foreign land, meaning they may have a hard time with the language occasionally.

No in-person meeting.  While you can screen your au pair and talk with them over the phone, you will not be able to get that in-person vibe until they arrive in the United States.

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How Much Does an Arm Lift (Brachioplasty) Cost?

An arm lift, also referred to as a brachioplasty in the medical world, will tighten the loose, sagging skin beneath the arm.

A procedure commonly performed after either a massive weight loss or due to natural aging, this procedure is often performed in conjunction with liposuction to help get rid of the excess fat.

“103.DupontCircle.WDC.20may06” (CC BY 2.0) by Elvert Barnes

How much does a brachioplasty cost?

The cost of an arm lift, as with any plastic surgery procedure, will greatly depend on your geographical location, the surgeon you choose, facility fee, anesthesia fee, surgeon fee, the complexity of the procedure, materials fee and if any other procedures are used in conjunction with the procedure.  Since this is always deemed an optional, cosmetic procedure, almost no health insurance companies will cover the procedure.  With all of that being said, the average cost, when all medical fees are considered, will range anywhere from $5,000 to $14,500 in the United States.

Reviewing the more than 700+ reviews on RealSelf.com, the average cost paid by the community was $7,200, with more than 95% saying the procedure was worth it.

According to the American Society of Plastic Surgeons, the average cost, as of 2016, was $4,257.  The website did note, however, that the surgery costs will vary, and the average fees mentioned would not include the anesthesia, operation room facilities or other related expenses.

James M Nachbar, MD, FACS, a plastic surgeon based in Scottsdale, Arizona, stated an arm lift “ballpark estimate” at his practice could be $7,650.

DocShop notes the costs will depend on the type of arm lift, where you live, the surgical facilities, your doctor’s experience and if additional treatments are needed.

The extra costs to consider

As all facilities will bill in various ways, the estimates provided may not include the anesthesia fees, the hospital/facility fees, medical tests, post-surgery garments, prescriptions and/or the surgeon’s fee.  To budget properly, it’s wise to add these fees to offer a decent estimate.

Arm lift candidates

Adults who have more than average upper arm skin laxity or recently lost a good amount of weight, either due to surgery or dieting.

An adult who is relatively stable with their weight and are not considered overweight.

Non-smokers in good overall health and have realistic expectations.

Healthy individuals who have no serious medical conditions that may impair the future healing after the surgery.

All ages are considered a candidate, but in general, a surgeon may want a good amount of skin elasticity to see good results.  If older than 65, your surgeon may recommend additional procedures.

Arm lift procedure

The procedure should always be performed by a Board Certified Plastic Surgeon at either an accredited outpatient surgical cetner or a hospital.

Before the surgery even begins, your doctor will either administer an intravenous sedation, which leaves you awake but not aware, or general anesthesia based on your situation.

Next, depending on the amount of excess skin that needs to be removed, the length and the pattern during the incision will greatly vary.  Generally, these incisions will be created inside the arm near the armpit or on the back of the arm, often depending on the surgeon’s preference and will extend as far as the elbow.  If liposuction was recommended, then the excess fat, at this time, will be removed.  The supportive tissue, once exposed, will be tightened, reshaped with sutures and the skin will be smoothed out over the arm.

Lastly, the incisions will be closed with either absorbable sutures or stitches.

The entire procedure, depending on the extent of it, will take anywhere from one to three hours.

The arm lift recovery after the procedure

After the procedure is complete, dressings and/or bandages will be applied to the incisions, and in some cases, the arms may be wrapped in an elastic bandage/compression garment to help minimize the swelling.

Aside from the garments, a small, thin-like tube may be inserted to help drain any fluid and/or blood while your arms heal.

As with any cosmetic procedure, your doctor will offer detailed instructions in writing to show you how to care for your surgical site, which medications you need to take and what to look out for while healing.  All patients should expect some slight swelling, discomfort and bruising, but your doctor will prescribe pain relievers to help with the situation.

As you recover, PlasticSurgery.org shows multiple before and after pictures as to what you should expect in terms of results.  While you will notice a tighter contour immediately after the procedure, swelling and bruising will be noticeable for the next few weeks while you heal.

On average, it will take four to six weeks to resume normal activities, but in the meantime, before you’re able to return to your usual activities, you may be limited to walking, sleeping, showering, driving and/or exercising.

As long as your weight won’t fluctuate, you should see the results last for years to come, but as your body continues to age, including your skin, it may lead to loose skin in the future.  The same can be said about an excessive weight gain if you were to gain weight too fast as the loose skin would return.

Risks of an arm lift

As no surgery is deemed safe, some risks need to be factored, including excessive bleeding, an infection at the incision, hematoma, anesthesia risks, a loss of sensation in the arm, scarring and/or swelling.

How to choose a qualified plastic surgeon

Always make sure your surgeon is certified by a key medical institution and certified by the American Board of Plastic Surgery (ABPS).  In order to be qualified by the ABPS, a surgeon must undergo at least three to five years of training, with a good majority of it dedicated to plastic surgery.  Even when certified, to maintain it, doctors must continue with an ongoing education and take tests every 10 years.

While optional, you may want to also consider a doctor who is a member of a medical school, a published expert, a recipient of honors and/or a participant with local community outreach programs.

Be sure to look out for a doctor who has years of experience with arm lift surgeries in general.  Even if your surgeon has years of experience, it may be in other areas of the body.

Try to find a doctor who has privileges to work with a reputable local hospital.  This privileges can come in handy in case an emergency situation were to arise.

One of the most effective ways to find a good surgeon is also by looking at past pictures and talking with former patients.  You can also ask family or friends to see if they have ever worked with a surgeon in the past.

Arm reduction without surgery

Laser Tightening – Your doctor, if they have access to the technology, may be able to treat your arms with a surgical laser.  This high-powered laser can stimulate collagen production, a naturally-occurring protein which is responsible for your skin elasticity.  This option, often done multiple times, often involves no scarring, no discomfort and no scarring.

Thermage® – Similar to the laser skin tightening procedure, Thermage® will use radiofrequency waves instead of light energy, which when used, tightens the collagen fibers to create a youthful skin appearance.  While it won’t cure drooping skin, it can help enhance slightly loose skin.

VelaShape – Approved by the FDA, this innovation uses a combination of radiofrequency treatments, massages, infrared light and suctioning.  Effective on more than just the upper arms, this option will melt away any excess fat cells, allowing your body to absorb it naturally, creating a new appearance.  Like the previously mentioned methods, plan on going in for four to six treatments for desirable results.

Zerona® – Zerona® treatments will help liquefy fat cells, again, allowing your body to naturally absorb them.  Using a cold laser, this procedure causes no discomfort, scarring or downtime.

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How Much Does Dog Training Cost at Petco?

Petco, one of the United States largest pet retailer, offers a variety of dog training classes, ranging from a beginner’s class for a puppy to a preparation class which prepares your dog for the AKC CGC certification.

“Petco” (CC BY 2.0) by JeepersMedia

How much do Petco dog training classes cost?

The costs of a Petco dog training class will depend on the type of class you plan on taking as the company, as seen here, offers a variety of classes.  To get more information in regards to pricing, we called a local Petco to see what each level would cost and included our findings below inside the table:

NOTE:  Granted, these are just estimates received from our local location for group classes only and are subject to change.  Use these as an estimate only as private lessons and prices can change over time.  Refer to the class descriptions below for more information.

A member on this Reddit.com thread said he was quoted $109 for a six-week program and was wondering if it was worth the money.  The top responses noted the classes can be worth it, but it is best to talk to the trainer ahead of time to know how they train the classes as some will follow the Petco training book while others may branch off with their own techniques.

Petco obedience class options

Puppy Level 1 – A six-week class designed for puppies two to four months old.  This introductory group will focus on introduction, socialization and will help teach your puppies the basics such as sit, come and walking loosely while on a leash.  This class will also cover ways to solve popular problems such as chewing, digging, teething and potty training.

Puppy Level 2 – Expanding upon the level 1 class, this six-week session, designed for puppies four to six months old, will phase out into other phases such as using treats to reward your puppy and introducing activities to keep your puppy active.

Puppy Essentials Package – This two-class package combines both level 1 and level 2 class plus the AKC S.T.A.R. puppy test.

Puppy Complete Package – This premium package includes everything in the Essentials package plus an additional adult dog class.

Adult Dog Level 1 – A six-week introductory class designed for any dog older than six months.  This class is designed to help communicate and train an older dog with basic commands such as sit, wait and stay.  Like the puppy package, it will also address challenges such as barking and digging.

Adult Dog Level 2 – A class for dogs that graduated from the level 1 class.  This class touches upon the lessons learned in level 1 and also teaches your dog games it can play to keep its mind active.

Canine Good Citizen Class – The top-tier class designed for all dogs that graduated the level 2 class and will prepare your dog for the AKC CGC test.  The American Kennel Club Canine Good Citizen (AKC CGC) certification is known as a very high standard of a dog’s behavior and can be a starting point for therapy dog training.

Adult Dog Essentials Package – A starter package which will combine the level 1 and 2 or good citizen class.  It will also include the AKC Canine Good Citizen test.

Adult Dog Complete Package – A premium package which combines all three classes mentioned prior plus a private lesson and the AKC Canine Good Citizen test.

Leash Manners Workshop – A one-hour workshop which helps your dog learn how to walk on a loose leash and behavior properly when being walked.

Sit and Down Workshop – A one-hour workshop which helps your dog learn two popular commands via positive reinforcement — sit and lay down.

Stay Workshop – This workshop focuses solely on the “stay” command, allow your dog to stay safe in non-leash situations.

Greeting People Politely Workshop – As the name claims, this workshop places an emphasis on greeting strange people with a positive first-time impression.

Potty Training Workshop – This workshop offers all of the tools necessary to help your dog plan, learn and establish a potty training route.

Behavioral Substitution Workshop – A workshop designed for dogs that have an issue chewing, barking and/or digging, which may cause a lot of stress at home.  This class offers owners the tools necessary to work with and correct the situation.

Crate Training Workshop – Designed to help your dog cope with the crate while inside, allowing the dog to react positively when you’re away.

Wait and Leave It Workshop – Yet another workshop which helps your dog understand two basic commands — wait and leave.  Don’t confuse the two with “no” or “stay.”

Tips to know

In order to take any of the classes mentioned above, your dog will need to be up-to-date on vaccinations.  Check with your local state and city to see which vaccinations your dog needs as all areas will vary.

Always check out the official website before signing up for classes as the company seems to offer promotions frequently.  For example, at the time of this publishing, they were offering $50 reward dollars if you purchased any level 1, 2 or package.

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How Much Does Levothyroxine Cost?

Levothyroxine Sodium, a generic version of the brand names Levothroid®, Levoxyl®, Synthroid®, Tirosint®, and Unithroid®, is a drug which is used to treat either an enlarged thyroid gland and/or thyroid cancer.  While there are brand-name versions of this drug available, the brand-name versions will not be interchangeable with the generic versions.

“Prescribed” (CC BY 2.0) by CarbonNYC [in SF!]

How much does levothyroxine cost?

Generic levothyroxine, in most cases, will be covered by both private health insurance policies and Medicare/Medicaid, but for those who do not have a health insurance plan, then it is best to budget at least $3 to $15 per 30 tablets.  This cost will greatly depend on the pharmacy you use.

As for those with a health insurance plan, the co-pays generally ranged from $0 to $14, depending on your insurance policy.  Medicare Part D and Medicare Advantage plans, from what we researched, did cover this drug.

With a good chance of multiple pharmacies in your area, we did call a few to see what they would charge and included the estimates we received over the phone.  Keep in mind these costs were for those without insurance.

NOTE:  These were estimates over the phone and will not be guaranteed.  These quotes were for a 30-pack at a 50mcg dosage.  At this time, you will need a prescription from your doctor to purchase and no over-the-counter alternatives exist.

As for just the dosages in general, here are the averages we found online.

NOTE:  The dosages will be based on a variety of factors, including your condition, lab results, age, weight and how well you respond to treatment.

GoodRX.com, according to its study, noted the average price at a local pharmacy was $16.98, with the “GoodRx Fair Price” being $11.63 for 30 tablets of levothyroxine 50mcg.

How to take levothyroxine

Always read the instructions as provided by the manufacturer, doctor and/or pharmacist before taking levothyroxine as you will need to take it the rest of your life and altering the dosage can affect your treatment. As per the leaflet, you will take this medication orally, usually once a day on an empty stomach about 60 minutes before you have breakfast. A pharmacist on CVS notes that if you were to take it on a full stomach, it could interfere with the drug’s effectiveness.  Unless your doctor advises you otherwise, you will want to take the medication with a full glass of water.  The tablet must be swallowed whole and should not be crushed, chewed or split.  As there are various brands, do not attempt to mix without first consulting with your doctor.

Side effects

As per the label, side effects often occur within the first few months of treatment.  This can include hair loss, an increase in sweating, higher-than-average thyroid hormone levels, mood changes, diarrhea, shaking, headaches, a shortness of breath, pain, chest pain, an irregular heartbeat or swelling.  Serious allergic reactions, while rare, can occur as well, including itching, rashes and/or dizziness.  If any side effects do occur, talk with your doctor right away.

How to save on levothyroxine

Check multiple discounted prescription drug-based websites such as Drugs.com or GoodRx.com.  Here, you can find a local pharmacy that accepts the coupon, allowing you to save as much as 80%.  A search for “levothyroxine coupon” could yield relatable results as well.

A 90-day supply, most of the time, will be cheaper than a 30-day supply.  Seeing you will need this medication for life, it’s always best to get the highest amount at a time to lower the costs.

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How Much Does a Dog Chiropractor Cost?

For humans, chiropractic therapy has been around for decades, but in the animal world, it’s known as a relatively new practice as veterinary practitioners are exploring ways to position and manipulate the spinal column to help treat various injuries or problems.

“Greyhound–inverted impacted premolar to” (CC BY 2.0) by mariposavet

How much does a dog chiropractor cost?

The cost of chiropractic care for a dog, just like a human being visiting, will depend on the condition, how well your dog behaves, your geographical location and the chiropractor you visit.  The majority of dog owners we researched online, from what we researched, spent anywhere from $65 to $175 a session, but this cost could greatly decrease if you were to commit and purchase sessions in bulk, often five or 10 at a time.  Also, if you do have a pet insurance plan, some policies will cover the procedure as long as it is deemed medically necessary.

Keep in mind your first-time visit will always be the most, often around $150 to $250 as your chiropractor will need to spend more time with you, take x-rays, review past lab work and create an at-home treatment plan.

Dr. Josée Gerard, BA, DC, CVSMT, a certified animal chiropractor, charges $120 for the first 45-minute visit and $50 for every 15-minute follow-up visit, according to his official price sheet.

The CRCG, a canine and conditioning rehabilitation group located in Colorado, charges $250 for a rehabilitation evaluation and treatment plans, according to the official price sheet, will range from $80 to $160 depending on the dog’s condition.

The process

For first-time visits, the practitioner will first want to know about your pet’s medical history and the condition you’re concerned about by filling out a first-time visitor form, just as you would with any other medical professional.  Like a routine visit at your local vet’s office, he or she will ask a variety of questions, often asking if you have noticed any concerns and/or problems they should be aware of.  Depending on the lab work/testing done in the past, they may want to perform an x-ray at this time to check on the area in question.

Following this, the doctor will use a range of chiropractic methods which consist of utilizing direct pressure to the spinal vertebrae and the attached muscles to help alter the current position.  The average session, on average, can last 15 to 30 minutes.

As with humans, there will be no recovery period following each session, and in general, most dog owners will see a slight correction in their dog’s position and overall body expression.  The number of follow-up sessions will greatly depend on the severity of the case as each situation will be quite unique.   Kiro4Pets.com notes that your pet will feel the need to rest as this is 100 percent normal.  In general, it could take up to five days to see positive progress.

Following every session, a good chiropractor should offer advice as to what you should do, as an owner at home, to keep your dog feeling mobile and upbeat.

Is it successful?

If you read online, you will read a lot of mixed reviews since the treatment process is relatively new to the field.  Some debate there’s no evidence to support the claims, while others state the dog may feel immediate benefits just as a human would.  Many pet owners often choose this time of therapy instead of treating the condition with multiple painkillers.

Sessions are beneficial for dogs with…

• Accute/chronic injury
• Arthritis
• Behavioral changes
• Difficulty climbing or going down the stairs
• Limping for unknown reasons
• Hip dysplasia
• Hunched back
• Refusing to jump over anything
• Any neurological related disease
• After an orthopedic-related surgery
• Any noticeable pain
• Sitting with legs to one side and/or in an unnatural position when laying down or standing
• Unusual gait

Finding a licensed practitioner

Ask your current vet to refer you to a local certified animal chiropractor or you can search for online via the American Veterinary Chiropractor Association or the College of Animal Chiropractic.   As of 2017, professional canine chiropractic has been recognized for a pinch more than 25 years.

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How Much Does Dog Thyroid Medication Cost?

A lot of dogs, unfortunately, are prone to getting hypothyroidism, which, in layman’s terms means your dog’s thyroid gland is unable to produce enough thyroxine — the hormone that is responsible for regulating the dog’s metabolism.  If enough thyroxine is not produced, then your dog may seem lethargic and can result in corneal ulcers, anemia or megaesophagus if left untreated.

Thyroid medication for your dog could be needed for a variety of reasons, including a thyroid gland disorder or thyroid hormone deficiency to name a few, and with multiple brands and types of thyroid medication available on the market, the costs, as with most prescriptions, will greatly vary.

Since there is no known cure, medication will be absolutely necessary to maintain your dog’s thyroid level.

“Bruno’s Getting Older 081409F” (CC BY 2.0) by vmiramontes

Dog thyroid medication cost

The costs of dog thyroid medication, after being diagnosed, will greatly depend on the vet’s specifications/treatment plan, the medications prescribed and the pharmacy you choose.  With a variety of options on the market, we broke down the most popular options inside the table below along with the costs, but for the most part, be prepared to budget about $10 to $25 a month for the dog’s thyroid medication only.

WagWalking.com notes that treatment will require supplements to replace the T3 and T4 thyroid hormones, which cost around $32 monthly.

At the VetDepot, for instance, they offer 18 options, all varying in dosage, with the two brands — Thyro-Tabs and Pala-Tech — ranging from $6 to $30 per 120-180 tablets.  Dosages, according to owners, will be once in the morning and once at night, meaning 120 tablets will last a bit more than 30 days.

Whole-dog-journal notes the standard treatment, which replaces the natural hormone with a synthetic T4 compound can cost about $5 to $10 a month.  The doctor being interviewed recommend 0.1 mg per 12 to 15 pounds twice a day.

The extra costs to consider

As a precaution, your vet will recommend routine blood work, especially in the beginning, to make sure the disease is under control.  Even as time goes on, since your dog needs to be on the medication for life, your vet will want to see your dog one to two times a year to check the thyroid level and adjust the dosages if necessary.  For each visit, plan on budgeting at least $75 to $100 for the visit and the full thyroid panel blood work.

In addition to the medication, while optional, some vets will recommend supplements and/or natural remedies to help with both hypothyroidism and behavior issues.

Treatment

For hypothyroidism, this is typically a lifelong treatment, so it is best to budget the prices mentioned above for the rest of the dog’s life.  Aside from the medication, blood work, in the case of hypothyroidism, will be necessary throughout the dog’s life to measure the thyroid hormone T4 in the blood and adjust the dosage as necessary.  Once the vet deems the medication dosage has stabilized, follow-up visits will be necessary one to two times a year.

As for a thyroid hormone deficiency, your dog, like hypothyroidism, will need to have its blood drawn multiple times in the beginning stages to make sure the hormone levels are normal.  Even as these levels stabilize, your dog will still need to take the medication for life.

If your vet does determine medication is required, it will more than likely contain , which is a synthetic compound that mimics the effects of thyroxine mentioned earlier, effectively helping your dog manage its basal metabolic rate and increase the body’s sensitivity to catecholamines like adrenaline.  As long as the dog takes the medication as per the instructions, most are able to live a long, fulfillable life with little side effects.  At this time, there is no known cure.  The proper dosage will be determined by the severity of the condition, their weight and how well they respond to the drug.

Dog thyroid medication side effects

PetcareRX.com , including an increase in thirst, hunger and hyperactivity if the dosage is incorrect.  If you were to see any of these signs, you will want to take your dog back to immediately to have them re-adjust the dosage.

Other side effects, as per the FDA, includes no appetite, skin problems, a decrease in activity level, vomiting, diarrhea and/or an increase in drinking.

Breeds at risk

More than 70 percent of the 140 breeds recognized by the American Kennel Club (AKC) recognizes hypothyroidism as a major health concern, according to Whole-Dog-Journal.com.  Breeds, according to this list, that are most prone include the English Setter, Polish Lowland Sheepdog (PON), Havanese, Old English Sheepdog, Boxer, American Pit Bull Terrier, German Wirehaired Pointer, Tibetan Terrier, Nova Scotia Duck Tolling Retriever and English Pointer.  Click on the Whole Dog Journal link to see a full list of the breeds.

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How Much Does Slipped Disc Surgery for a Dog Cost?

The intervertebral disc, the cushion between the bones of the spine, can rupture or even swell over time, causing damage to the dog’s spinal cord.

This damage can either progress and happen over time, which can be treated if detected early and cause few complications, or in the case of intervertebral disc disease (IVDD), the discs which serve as the cushion will rupture, causing extreme pain, a loss of feeling and/or a loss of limb function.

If this were to happen, your vet, depending on the damage, will recommend a course of action which would include surgery and medication.

“Dachshund” (CC BY-SA 2.0) by Nick Savchenko

Intervertebral disc disease (slipped disc) dog surgery cost

The cost of slipped disc surgery for your dog will greatly depend on the damage and where it occurred on the spinal cord.  Referred to as neurolocalization, this refers to the classification of where the damage occurred on the spinal cord, broken down into large regions from cervical vertebral 1-5 to lumbar vertebrae 4 through the sacrum.  As with any other surgery, it will also depend on the amount of pre-op/post-op work (discussed below) that needs to be done, your geographical location, your dog and the vet you use.

The total costs, when we factor in a good majority of the pre-operative tests mentioned below can add up to more than $5,000 to $10,000 for complete treatment, but if more specialists, prescriptions and/or treatments are needed, then it is not unheard of to see dog owners spend more than $16,000+, with ongoing medication costs averaging $175 a month without pet insurance.

Embrace Pet Insurance mentions the costs can be very steep once advanced imaging studies are considered.  $1,000 to $3,000 can be the typical cost for just the sophisticated imaging techniques, whereas the surgical procedures alone can cost anywhere from $1,500 to $4,000.

DodgersList.com, an IVDD support website, created a price list of multiple IVDD knowledgeable vets for conservative treatment.  Browsing the list, those who did report the costs ranged anywhere from $2,500 to more than $6,500.  A lot of these costs would include the total costs of surgery, an overnight stay at the hospital and related tests such as a CT scan, MRI, blood tests, anesthesia, imaging, prescriptions and/or physical therapy.

This Diary of a Real-Life Veterinarian blog post discussed the outcome of two dog’s and their IVDD journey.  In one circumstance, the final bill for one dog was $7,000, including recovery, while the multiple blog comments on the post stated they were quoted anywhere from $6,000 to $9,000+

On this City-data.com forum thread, members discussed what it would cost to treat their dachshunds back problems, and some of the comments inside the thread stated you should be prepared to spend upwards of $4,500.

The extra costs to consider

How the vet diagnoses your dog will depend on the symptoms and the breed.  If, for example, your breed was predisposed to intervertebral disc disease, then there could be a good chance IVDD is, indeed, the problem.  However, depending on other symptoms, additional tests may be required and need to be budgeted for on top of the estimates mentioned above, including:

• Blood work ($250)
• CT Scan ($1,000+)
• MRI ($2,500+)
• Serum chemistry ($100)
• Ongoing prescription medication to relieve the pain after surgery ($150+/mo)
• Physical therapy after the surgery completes ($65+/day)
• Urinanalysis ($45)
• Spinal tap (up to $1,000)
• Spinal x-ray ($150+)

Symptoms of IVDD

• Refusal to walk due to pain.
• A loss of hind limb functioning and/or the ability to urinate.  Your dog may also urinate or defecate in unusual spots.
• Isn’t able to walk up or down the stairs or jump to their usual spaces.
• Slower movement than usual or just doesn’t seem like the dog is normal.
• The neck muscles seem tense or even spasm when inspected closely.
• Hunched over back.
• Yelping in pain while either crying or shaking.

Treatment plan

As a slipped disc diagnosis can greatly vary, the treatment plan, because of this, can greatly vary as well.  If the vet finds the spinal cord has minimal damage, then he or she will recommend crate rest, pain medication and a follow-up visit to monitor the dog’s progress.  To determine the damage, your vet will take either an MRI, CT Scan and/or Myelography.

If the damage is much greater, then the treatment plan will depend on the severity of the damage.  In most cases, nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs or corticosteroid drugs will more than likely be prescribed to see if it is effective enough to remedy the situation.

If medication doesn’t help and/or the pain is deemed too severe, then surgery will be the last resort, which is often determined by an outside specialist.  In the field, this can include fenestration or decompressive surgery, and the type will be depended upon the x-ray results and diagnostic tests performed at your vet’s office.

Recovery process

Following any surgery, your dog will be hospitalized for a few days while the office monitors the dog’s condition and bowel/bladder control.  Once the functions have returned to normal, such as going to the bathroom and walking, then your dog can return home.  The recovery will depend on the damage done in the first place, if physical therapy is performed after and if the dog is motivated to recover.

IVDD Affected Breeds

• Basset Hound
• Beagle
• Cavalier King Charles Spaniels
• Cocker Spaniels
• Dachshund
• French Bulldog
• Lhasa Apso
• Pekingese
• Pomeranian
• Shih Tzu
• Welsh Corgi

Can a dog recover from IVDD without surgery?

The chances of recovery without surgery, according to VCA Hospitals, will depend on the stage of the disease.  A Stage I disc disease, for example, will produce mild pain and can self-correct itself in a few days; however, a Stage V disc disease can cause paralysis and a loss of feeling for your dog.  In this case, surgery may be required and must be confined in order to see progress.  The sooner this surgery is completed, the better the prognosis and future can be for your dog’s future.   The herniated disc recovery time without surgery, again, depending on the stage, can be as little as a few days or weeks if confined or never if paralysis is suspected.

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