Quote:
Originally Posted by masraum
---snip---I just checked, and the various online dog med places seem to have it about 33% cheaper than we've been paying. The missus likes to support local business so we usually buy it from our vet, but $210 vs $300 for 6mo is a big difference.
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Steve, You could always ask your vet if they are
able to match the online price.
Please note...I used the word "able". This is much more respectful than just saying "can" you match this price.
A minor distinction that might be lost on some, nevertheless, I would always want to present any situation that revolves around business dealings in a respectful context, regardless of other perceptions.
In most cases....a vet already charges you for office visits and treatments and while meds do make up part of their compensation, there should be enough margin in them to allow flexibility and still reap some profit for the vet. All you are doing is asking them if they have that flexibility and if so would they like to keep your business. In essence...giving them first right of refusal.
If you decide to go this route, bring with you (or have handy if communicating by phone of email) the exact information from the online source including business name, pricing (including shipping and taxes if applicable), and dosage info on med (including trade name, active ingredient, % strength, form it comes in, and quantity).
In doing all of the above you are making it easy for your vet to make a decision.
Depending on your relationship with your vet (and their staff) this might also carry over into how other situations are handled that involve competitive pricing on apples to apples products and services.
The most important aspect to keep in mind is you want your vet to have all of your business. Make sure he understands this. But you are not made of gold (who is?) and are just trying to be respectful of your household and family member health and well being budget.