Photo courtesy PetSmart Charities-Gallup The recent "State of Pet Care Study" by PetSmart Charities and Gallup highlights the ongoing impact of cost on veterinary care and the emotional strain it places on veterinarians and pet families. Surveying 933 U.S. veterinarians between September 9 and October 5, 2025, the study found 94 percent report clients’ financial limitations sometimes (56 percent) or often (38 percent) prevent delivery of recommended care. Cost was cited more than twice as often as any other reason for declined treatment. The study also revealed a gap between veterinarians’ perceptions and pet owners’ experiences. While 81 percent of veterinarians reportedly say they often or always recommend alternative care when cost is a barrier, prior pet parent data showed 73 percent were not offered more affordable options. Similarly, 41 percent of veterinarians provide financing or payment plans, yet only 23 percent of pet owners recall being offered one. Nearly half of veterinarians (48 percent) reported receiving no formal training on discussing financial barriers, and 32 percent felt minimally prepared. Emotional strain is common: 74 percent said euthanasia due to financial constraints is among the hardest aspects of practice, and 41 percent reported it occurs at least sometimes. “After listening to pet parents, it was essential that we also hear directly from veterinarians,” says Aimee Gilbreath, president of PetSmart Charities. “They, too, experience the emotional toll when financial barriers stand between pets and recommended care.” “Veterinarians enter this field because they care deeply about the welfare of animals,” says Dr. Robyn Jaynes, director of veterinary affairs at PetSmart Charities. “They too are impacted by the rising costs of delivering care on their businesses and their own mental wellness. We’re grateful to those who contributed to this study. Their insights and engagement are critical in evolving affordable solutions that meet the needs of pet parents and for veterinarians and their teams.” The study emphasizes the need for better education, proactive cost conversations, and adoption of flexible Spectrum of Care approaches to expand access and support both veterinarians and pet families.
