Pet Parents Are Delaying Vet Care Because of High Costs

Findings Shed Light on the Impact of Veterinary Care Costs

A whopping 91% of pet owners in the United States stated they were willing to take on debt if it meant saving their companion’s life, proving that the majority of people who share their homes with animals are willing to go above and beyond for them. This isn’t surprising when you consider how many people think of their pets as their soulmates.  

However, this survey also found that 46% of people had to skip or delay getting vet care in the last year because of increasing costs.  

Also, 37% of pet parents stated that they’ve taken on debt or used credit to cover vet costs in the last year. And another 37% said they’ve reduced spending on everyday expenses because of vet care costs.

Multiple Factors That Influence Pet Owners’ Decisions

Veterinary care decisions are affected by financial pressures, a reliance on getting online advice, and uncertainty regarding when vet care is necessary.

Here are some other findings:

• 80% of people shared that they researched symptoms online prior to deciding if they were going to take their pet to the vet.
• 44% of pet owners surveyed said that cost almost stopped them from getting their pet veterinary care the last time they needed it.
• 34% of people said they turn to artificial intelligence or online answers when their pet exhibits symptoms.
• 25% of pet owners admitted they avoided or delayed a vet visit because of the information they found online, but ended up wishing they’d gone to the vet sooner.
• 25% of pet parents stated that they weren’t certain if the problem their pet was experiencing was serious enough to need a vet visit.
• 17% of people shared that they couldn’t get a timely vet appointment.
• 16% of people surveyed said they’d most likely delay or decline vet care if they needed to pay $2,000 for an emergency today.

With everyday pet ownership costs, in addition to veterinary costs, on the rise, you aren’t alone if you find yourself struggling to afford it all. But there are options available if you need help and support. For example, you might be able to get flexible payment options, and there are also a variety of pet insurance providers and plans that may help reduce your out-of-pocket costs.

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