Which statement best explains why different per diem rates appear across institutions?

Which statement best explains why different per diem rates appear across institutions?

• A. Differences in included costs
• B. Differences in the species used
• C. Differences in staff education
• D. Differences in facility age

Answer: (A)

Per diem rates vary across institutions because each facility defines what costs are included in the daily charge. The daily rate is meant to cover the ongoing cost of housing and caring for the animals, and what’s included can differ widely. Some places roll in housing, feed, bedding, enrichment, routine veterinary care, staff time, sanitation, utilities, facility maintenance, and administrative overhead. Others may bill certain items separately or only include a subset of services, which changes the overall daily rate. While factors like species differences or overall facility costs can influence the amount, the key reason for variation is exactly which costs are bundled into the per diem.

Per diem rates vary across institutions because each facility defines what costs are included in the daily charge. The daily rate is meant to cover the ongoing cost of housing and caring for the animals, and what’s included can differ widely. Some places roll in housing, feed, bedding, enrichment, routine veterinary care, staff time, sanitation, utilities, facility maintenance, and administrative overhead. Others may bill certain items separately or only include a subset of services, which changes the overall daily rate. While factors like species differences or overall facility costs can influence the amount, the key reason for variation is exactly which costs are bundled into the per diem.