Being able to enjoy having animals on a lifestyle block also means spending money to keep these animals healthy. Some of this money will be spent on vet visits for routine husbandry or for sick/injured animals. How can you help ensure that these visits don’t incur unnecessary expense?

Vets charge on time. Help reduce the time the vet is on farm in the following ways:
1. Have the animals in the yards and/or restrained before the vet arrives.
2. Make sure someone is around to assist the vet during the visit.
3. Have all your questions prepared in advance.

You can also help reduce the cost of vet visits by not needing the visit in the first place!
1. Buy healthy animals from a trusted source (not from the saleyards).
2. Keep your animals healthy by performing routine health procedures (shearing, foot trimming, etc)
3. Understock your property, so you don’t run out of food on a bad year.

And lastly, it pays to have a good relationship with your vet. If you are unsure about the needs of your animals, or the stocking rate for your property, have the vet out for a visit. This may just help save you from having expensive vet visits in the future!

Date Added: Monday, 22nd August 2016