Why so much? Here's a run down of the basic medical care an average 5 year old female recieves when coming into our Rescue group.
That's a grand total of 168.00. *Many* dogs come to us with other problems which require medical attention above and beyond the basics. Bassets are especially prone to ear infections, allergies and glaucoma. When a dog comes in from the pound, it usually has Kennel Cough that has gone into a secondary infection. None of the treatments for those ailments are free of charge. Some dogs come in heartworm positive which can cost anywhere from $300 to $600 to treat and cure. There is then the cost of food and of course the specialized food for the "allergy" dogs, which can be very expensive. The outrageous cost of gasoline also has to be taken into account as these beautiful dogs are placed up and down this huge state.
Not all incoming Bassets need the "basics". Some have already been altered and vaccinated. But, there is the occasional "special needs" Basset which requires a specialist, x-rays, surgery and medications for a variety of reasons. The money saved on a dog already healthy is spent many times over on the Basset that comes in terrified of people due to frequent beatings, and is mal-nurished, parasite infested, unaltered, and in general, a pathetic mess. Hundreds of dollars (occasionaly thousands) are spent to turn that "mess" in to a healthy, altered, well adjusted, beautiful Basset waiting to become part of a family.
Granted, $150.00 sounds like a lot and takes many by surprise. Every penny goes toward the care of homeless Basset Hounds in the effort to place healthy Basset companions into families willing to provide the love, care and stability that so many have never experienced.