ARE ANIMALS LOVERS BEING EXPLOITED?

Animal lovers are not rich. And it shouldn't be a prerequisite for adopting a pet. But are the vet prices so high that you have to be rich to pay them? And if you can't afford it you are turned away or shunned because you are not fit to have a pet? Treatments are priced and handled like a menu at a restaurant and preliminary consult is as much as some car payments. Is this right? Do you know of any home remedies? We are worried about our Max. Any advise is welcome.