I'm concerned my sister is being ripped off by her veterinarian

[brentspeak]

My youngest sister's dog was diagnosed a year ago with skin cancer. $15,000 (in debt) later, the vet is still recommending radiation and chemotherapy treatments for the dog.

I'm concerned that the vet might be taking advantage of my sister's love for her dog. Unfortunately, dogs are not very articulate, and so my sister's dog can't relate whether or not she feels OK.

Am I being paranoid to liken this vet to an automobile repairman?

[Catchawave]

1. Second opinion ?

15k is alot of money for a skin condition I never heard of in a dog, yes, even an older dog, in the 10 years I worked for a vet. I highly recommend a second opinion.

[flvegan]

3. I'm with Catchawave here.

Actually, I'd go to another vet, have a scraping/sampling done, sent off to a lab, and wait for the results.

Then, if the other vet was remiss in his/her diagnosis, find a lawyer.

[CBGLuthier]

2. nope not paranoid

King of the Hill did a show about this which must mean there is some truth to it.

I love my animals but 15,000 is insane. Unless of course one has that kind of money.

[Pharlo]

4. I'd go with the second opinion as well.

One of my dogs recently started getting nose bleeds. After $500.00 worth of tests and diagnosis, my vet insisted I go to a vet referral service and consult with a board certified specialist.

I don't know where your sister lives, but I would recommend she consult with another vet - preferably a specialist.

As for whether the vet is trying to rip your sister off - I don't know. I have dealt with vets in the past where they will try to do anything to help an animal - they don't want to be the first to suggest euthanizing their patient. Once I brought that option up, the vet was visibly relieved, yet still cautious, until I asked: "If it were your dog, what would you do?" The response - "Put him down."
It wasn't out of meanness or a customer's financial soaking, just a reluctance to being the first to make the suggestion.

[henslee]

5. So many factors to factor in. How old is dog. What is its qualitry of life

now. How long does the dog expect to have with the treatment... and without it. Definitely a second opinion is a good idea. Some vets are crooks. BUT, you can tell if your dog is feeling okay. Energetic. Has an Appetite. Affectionate.

[Vanje]

6. Get a second opinion

....from a country vet.