Quebec party pushes for regulation of veterinary costs

A political party in Quebec is urging the provincial government to address what they call predatory pricing in veterinary care. Many pet owners are feeling the financial pressure as the cost of vet services continues to rise. Veterinarian Dr. Sébastien Kfoury explained that rising prices are not just due to greedy practices. He noted several factors, including increased wages for skilled veterinarians and technicians. He also mentioned that many clinics are experiencing reduced business since the COVID-19 pandemic. Quebec Solidaire, the province's second opposition party, is concerned that more corporate-owned veterinary clinics are driving up prices and prioritizing profit over animal care. Eve-Lyne Bouchard, president of the Quebec Veterinary Medical Association, is not opposed to new legislation. However, she believes more data is needed to understand the pricing landscape better. According to the Montreal SPCA, the average yearly cost of owning a pet ranges from $2,000 to $4,000, excluding unexpected emergencies. Executive director Lawrence Massé emphasized the importance of adopting pets and educating potential owners about costs. A new law passed last year, known as Bill 67, will allow the Montreal SPCA to open a community clinic to provide low-cost veterinary services. This initiative aims to help low-income pet owners keep their animals instead of having to surrender them. The clinic is set to open later this year. Both the SPCA and veterinarians recommend that pet owners consider getting pet insurance to help manage costs.