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VetVine Client Care

Posted On Oct 17, 2026

Updated On Oct 17, 2026

A Challenge That Many Veterinary Professionals Face On A Daily Basis

Perspectives & Off-Topic Discussions

In our recent webinar on the topic of costs of care and impacts on animal and veterinarian wellbeing, a Member submitted this question and comment:

"How do we make recommendations, such as a dental procedure, knowing our clients cannot afford it, especially if there are not even any places to refer for low cost care, and our clients cannot afford to qualify for or have exhausted their CareCredit?

Why, as an industry, do we treat CareCredit or similar as THE other payment option, when so many people will not qualify, have exhausted it, or it means we are in effect telling already financially struggling people to take on more debt and compound their problems? Where can we learn how to dialogue with a loving pet owner who has no way to afford the needed dental, etc. (dentals in particular, though, since standard of care means general anesthesia etc., and forgoing it leaves a pet in pain and at risk ... how do we even talk about this?) It's crushing for all involved.

Also, as techs and assistants dealing with better resourced clients, we are often recommending care we ourselves cannot afford, which is demoralizing as well."

This is an excerpt from the webinar Q&A which includes Dr. Barry Kipperman's thoughts, perspectives, and suggestions: