Dear Editor,

As Mr. Heim's article (Pets, Vets and Debts, April 27, 2008) states, and as American Veterinary Medical Association (AVMA) surveys confirm, pet owners are seeking high-quality veterinary care for their pets. These same surveys also confirm that this high level of care is a direct result of the strength of the human-animal bond. About 68 million American households own pets, and many pet owners demand veterinary health care that parallels human health care.

Certainly, these services come with a cost. And veterinarians sympathize with the stress some pet owners feel when faced with having to choose between what is best for their pets versus their financial limitations.

However, comments made by Mr. James Busby, a veterinarian, who states that some veterinarians "shame" pet owners into choosing veterinary care, are not representative of the veterinary community. They are in stark contrast to the AVMA's Principles of Veterinary Medical Ethics, which state that "the choice of treatments or animal care should not be influenced by considerations other than the needs of the patient, the welfare of the client and the safety of the public."

Sincerely,

Gregory S. Hammer, DVM
President
American Veterinary Medical Association