One of the most common questions veterinarians in Metro Manila hear is simple:
“Doc, magkano po ang consultation?”
And almost just as common is the follow-up comment after the answer:
“Ah… mas mura po sa iba.”
This situation is not unique to one clinic. It happens daily across small animal practices, from solo clinics to hospitals. To understand why, we need to clarify a few important realities about veterinary fees in the Philippines.
There Is No “Standard Price” — And That Is By Design
Veterinary clinics in the Philippines do not operate under a government-mandated or association-fixed price list for services such as:
- Consultation / doctor’s fee
- Professional services
- Diagnostic procedures
- Confinement and case management
This is intentional. Price-fixing is not allowed, and clinics are expected to set fees based on their actual operating costs, level of service, and professional judgment.
Why Clinic Fees Differ (Even Within the Same City)
Several legitimate factors affect pricing:
1. Overhead and operating costs
Rent, utilities, staff salaries, equipment, permits, waste disposal, and compliance costs vary widely across Metro Manila.
2. Time and depth of consultation
A brief visual check is very different from a proper clinical exam with history taking, assessment, explanation, and documentation.
3. Professional experience and training
Years of practice, postgraduate education, and continuous professional development all matter.
4. Clinic systems and standards
Record keeping, infection control, case follow-up, and internal protocols influence both cost and quality of care.
Why Clients Naturally Compare Prices
Clients are not wrong for asking. Comparing costs is part of normal consumer behavior. However, veterinary services are not uniform commodities. Two consultations may look similar on the surface but differ greatly in quality, thoroughness, and responsibility.
How Clinics Can Respond to “Mas Mura sa Iba”
Instead of defending or discounting, clinics can calmly say:
“Clinics set their fees based on their own operating costs and standards of care. Our fees reflect the time, expertise, and responsibility we provide for your pet.”
This keeps the conversation professional and respectful while reinforcing value over price.
Transparency Builds Trust
Good veterinary practice includes:
- Informing clients of consultation fees before the exam
- Explaining what services are included
- Providing estimates for procedures and confinement
- Setting expectations early
Transparency does not mean lowering fees. It means clarity.
A Reminder to Fellow Veterinarians
Sustainable practice is not about being the cheapest. It is about:
- Valuing professional time and judgment
- Protecting staff welfare
- Maintaining medical standards
- Avoiding burnout and shortcuts
Veterinary medicine is a medical profession, not a retail transaction.
When clinics explain this clearly, clients who value proper care will understand.
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