Cost of toe removal for dog

prob500

Hi,

My dog has been diagnosed as needing a toe removed (possibly cancerous). I’ve been quoted £1.7k for the procedure (including X-rays & biopsy) … and I’ve no idea whether that  is a sensible quote or not. I’ve tried calling a couple of other local vets but they are reluctant to give me even a ball-park quote without a consultation first, which costs £50. I am happy with my vets, and don’t want to throw more money away on an unnecessary consultation which could end up giving  me a similar quote. But I’ve no idea of £1.7k is miles out of line  with what it should be. Can anyone advise? Thanks!

JGB1955

How old is your dog?  What would the possible outcome be if you don't agree to the suggested procedures?  I only ask because when our ESS had a lump removed (at the age of 12) we refused the offer of a biopsy because we would never have opted for the follow-on treatments that might have been offered.  He eventually fell victim of a stroke 18 months later.... but that's another story!

prob500

He’s 12 years old.  He’s in some obvious discomfort because of the toe, and has been walking on 3 legs for some time (we’ve already tried antibiotics, hoping it was just an infection). So the debate isn’t whether to do the toe or not, it’s just whether we go ahead with the £1.7k vet.  But I agree with you that if the biopsy isn’t positive we wouldn’t give him the likely proposed treatment at his age. 

sheramber

If it is a fixed fee then it will be the average cost. Some ops will cost more , some less.

Cost depends on the size of the dog as anaesthesia  is based on weight of the animal.

An elderly dog needs more supervision during and after surgery  which will increase cost. 

If it is a chain practice as opposed to an independent one, again it will cost more.

My vet  changed over at the start of the year and costs have escalated. 

elsien

£50 consultation seems a small price to pay if it might save you several hundred on the quote. 

My previous dog had a toe removed, but it was too long ago to be of any use as a comparison now.