Down my way everyone, except me, has pots of money the cheapest house you can buy would set you back 150k+ for a two up two down terrace Vet's charge what they like in most practices here, pts about £40 first visit 18 - 25. My vet is ok imo and charges sensible prices, cheaper for small animals like ferrets ...Perhaps vets in BB's area would rather charge less cos they know they will get nothing if they charge too much as some owners might take their dogs for a walk in the woods