Pets and vets.(your letters)(Letter to the Editor)

Thank you for your July report "Pets & Vets." I lost my 10-year-old purebred English setter in November 2002 and was astonished at the cost of my dog's care and how our love for this animal was exploited. For months our dog's health was failing and by November he stopped eating. Our vet ordered X-rays, blood work, an ultrasound, exploratory surgery, transfer to an all-night emergency clinic, treatment by different vets, and back to the animal hospital. There, we had to have him euthanized to end his suffering. The cost for less than 24 hours was $3,429.81.

That was bad enough for two old people on Social Security but our dog went through pain and misery to correct what I suspected to be a terminal illness. All bills are paid, but I wish your article was written a year ago.

ALBERT CARLSON COHOES, NY

I want to suggest two great ways to save money on veterinary care. First, if you are going to get a pet, skip the breeders and pet shops and instead go to your local Humane Society or animal shelter. My Humane Society charges just $90 for adult cats and $125 for kittens, including a checkup, spaying or neutering, and vaccinations. Even better, you'll save a life. Second, if you have a cat, keep it inside. Your cat won't pick up diseases from other cats, get attacked, or get hit by a car.

ANNELISE CUMMINGS LOUISVILLE, CO

I have been a practicing veterinarian for 13 years, and I read this article with deep concern. Perhaps the biggest error you commit is in representing veterinary ...