Spain is a country where attitudes towards pets are becoming increasingly responsible, and veterinary clinics play a key role in this process. Recent years have seen an increase in the number of veterinary clinics across the country, as well as an improvement in the quality of the services they provide.
Development of veterinary clinics in Spain
Veterinary clinics in Spain are present in almost every city and even in some smaller communities. Major cities such as Madrid, Barcelona, Valencia and Seville offer many specialised centres that can deal with all kinds of diseases or health problems in animals. These can range from multi-disciplinary clinics offering a wide range of services, from preventative vaccinations to complex surgery, to highly specialised facilities such as ophthalmology or dental clinics for animals.
Most clinics offer a 24-hour service, which is very important in emergency cases. Veterinary services in Spain are actively working to make services as affordable as possible for pet owners.
The cost of keeping a pet
Keeping a pet in Spain can become quite costly, especially when it comes to veterinary services. Standard check-ups, vaccinations and parasite treatments are relatively affordable, but more serious illnesses or surgical procedures can be costly. On average, monthly costs for pet health and care (excluding food and toys) range from €50 to €100.
The cost of a veterinary appointment
An initial appointment with a vet in Spain can cost between €30 and €50, depending on the region and clinic. Specialised appointments or consultations with subspecialists (such as a dermatologist or cardiologist for animals) can cost considerably more, from €60 to €100. However, there are also pet insurance plans available in Spain that cover a significant portion of the cost of veterinary services, including diagnosis, treatment and medication.
Cost of medication
The cost of pet medication in Spain can also be significant, especially when it comes to specialised medicines. Some simple medications, such as flea treatments or antivirals, are available at reasonable prices (10-20 euros), but medications prescribed for serious conditions (such as cancer or chronic conditions) can cost hundreds of euros.
In addition, an important point is that not all medicines can be bought without a prescription. Veterinary clinics and pharmacies strictly control the dispensing of medicines to avoid misuse of drugs. Antibiotics and potent drugs require a veterinarian’s prescription. However, a number of preventative medications such as vitamins, skin and coat care products are available over-the-counter at veterinary pharmacies.
Availability of over-the-counter medication
Although many pet medications in Spain require a prescription, there are a number of exceptions. For example, anthelmintics, vitamins and supplements, ear and eye care products can be purchased without a prescription. However, it is worth remembering that self-medication of animals without the advice of a veterinarian can lead to negative consequences for their health.
Veterinary clinics in Spain offer quality services, but the cost of their services may vary depending on the region and the specifics of treatment. Keeping a pet requires not only attention and care, but also financial investment, especially in the case of serious health problems. Pet owners can reduce their costs by taking out pet insurance to help with unexpected expenses.