Source: Gallup
A recent PetSmart Charities-Gallup study reveals that over half (52%) of U.S. pet owners skipped or declined Veterinary care in the past year, primarily due to financial barriers. Among these, 71% cited cost as the main reason—regardless of income level. Even households earning over $90,000 reported affordability issues. Beyond cost, 29% of owners declined care due to impracticality or stress on their pets. Alarmingly, 73% of those who declined care due to cost were not offered lower-cost alternatives, and less than one in four were offered payment plans.
However, 64% of pet owners said they could afford more care if interest-free payment plans were available. Skipping care often leads to serious consequences—14% saw their pet’s condition worsen or die, and 30% know someone who lost a pet due to unaffordable treatment. With Veterinary costs up 60% since 2014, expanding financial options is critical to improving pet health outcomes nationwide.
Read the full story HERE: https://news.gallup.com/poll/659057/pet-owners-skipped-declined-veterinary-care.aspx