Why are painkillers so expensive for dogs?

Answer 1

Mostly because there's no health plan, relief or legislation that allows for breaks in a dog's medication as there are for humans, and vets can make a little extra money if they sell the medication themselves. Depending on the medication, you might ask your vet not to sell you the medication, but instead write you a prescription that a normal pharmacy can fill. While you can't legally claim it on your insurance, many pharmacies offer lost-cost programs for painkillers, especially generics, that can save you a ton of money, and it's the exact same medicine. Ask your vet about tramadol for this. Tramadol is a very effective, safe, comparatively low cost painkiller that humans and dogs can both handle. You'll need a prescription for this of course. And it's okay to explain to your vet that you aren't wealthy. Most vets, in my experience, would rather help you out financially before they'd see an animal go untreated. If your vet isn't this way, perhaps a second opinion is called for.