[nagdu] Counting the costs

[Elizabeth Rene]

One thing to consider in determining the cost of a guide dog and budgeting 
for its care is the possibility of unexpected veterinary bills.  Dogs can 
get sick or injured, no matter how well they're cared for, and some 
provision should be made for emergencies.

Some dogs, too, have unexpected long-term needs, such as allergy care or 
dentistry.  My current guide, for example, builds tartar on his teeth more 
readily than my former dogs did, and needs his teeth cleaned professionally 
about every six months (tooth brushing alone isn't enough for him).

Pet insurance might be a good investment if your school doesn't cover 
on-going or extraordinary veterinary costs.

Otherwise, in choosing a guide dog school, it might be useful to consider 
what veterinary costs the school will cover as part of any program of 
ongoing service to you and your new guide.  Starting out with a first dog 
from a school that provides extensive support services and needed veterinary 
care might add a lot to your peace of mind.  You can always pay the vet 
yourself when you can afford to, no matter what the school will do in a 
pinch.

Elizabeth