1. United States
2. Texas
3. Letter

To Greg Abbott, Dan Patrick, Judith Zaffirini, and Lulu Flores, I am writing to urge Texas leaders to address the growing crisis of unaffordable veterinary and pet care costs across our state. For many Texas families, pets are beloved family members and emotional support companions. Yet too many people are being forced to surrender or euthanize their pets simply because they cannot afford treatment or medications. Many pets require life-sustaining medications for chronic conditions such as diabetes, seizures, heart disease, thyroid disorders, and autoimmune illnesses. Some medications cost over $180 for only a 30-day supply, creating a devastating financial burden for families already struggling with rising living costs. Current pet insurance plans often deny coverage for pre-existing conditions, leaving pet owners without meaningful assistance once a diagnosis has been made. Prescription coverage for pets should be more accessible and better regulated, similar to protections available in human healthcare. This issue also affects animal shelters across Texas: * Pets are surrendered not because they are unloved, but because medications and treatment are unaffordable * Shelters become overcrowded with animals that families desperately wanted to keep * Overcrowding contributes to higher euthanasia rates * Affordable medications and preventive care could help keep pets safely in their homes I respectfully ask Texas lawmakers to consider: * Expanding affordable veterinary assistance programs * Increasing access to affordable prescription medications * Supporting nonprofit and community veterinary clinics * Encouraging fairer pet insurance coverage policies Affordable pet care would reduce shelter overcrowding, lower euthanasia rates, and help Texas families keep the animals they love. Sincerely, Teresa Ramirez