(Bargain Hound looks for ways to save money in San Leandro and vicinity. Todat we pick up from last week's column on pet adoption.)
Yeah! You found the pet you've been looking for. Now it's time to figure out all that other stuff -- including how to save money on vet care.
Luckily it's not hard to save money, take good care of your new baby and still get quality care.
If you adopted from the SPCA or Animal Services the first checkup is included in the fee along with at least the first set of vaccinations, spay or neuter, and microchipping. After that it's up to you.
Since most vets charge for an office visit when you take your guys in for shots that is the easiest time to save some bucks.
Mike's Feed & Pet will have veterinary clinics for cats and dogs on April 29, May 6, and May 20 from 10-11:30am. It offers on the spot vaccinations, deworming, and microchipping. You can meet the neighbors while standing in line and maybe even line up a few play dates.
Basic puppy and kitten packs are a good deal at $39.00-$49.00. Vaccinations run $12-$20.00; microchipping is $39.00.
They also do a few basic blood tests like the Feline Leukemia Virus for $26.00. Just be sure to invest your savings in toys and treats!
710 E14th St.
(800) 427-7973 (VIP Petcare Services)
For bigger savings and a broader range of services I have to recommend border jumping again to the East Bay SPCA Veterinary Clinic. They get four barks from me for price and quality.
The SPCA clinic has regular drop-in hours for vaccinations during the week and on Saturday with no reservations required. Most vaccinations are $15.00; mircrochipping is $30.00; and this month they are offering 20% off of their already low prices on spay/neuter services for dogs and cats.
Pits and pit-mixes are spayed and neutered for free through a special program to reduce over breeding.
This is also where I go for top notch veterinary care at discount prices. Basic office exams are $40.00; most procedures, including x-rays, are 30-40% less, and they offer an additional Seniors discount.
The vets are extremely knowledgeable and will take the time to answer your questions on everything from nutrition to treatment alternatives.
Wednesday evening and Saturday office visits are available but fill up fast.
East BAY Spca Oakland, 8323 Baldwin St (near Heggenberger), Oakland
569-1606
Just remember to give your guys a hug for me.
(For more money-saving tips scan our archive of similar columns. Sign up to get San Leandro Patch delivered by email.)
For those that follow yelp he has great reviews posted.