Why Pet Owners Avoid Veterinary Care
Regular veterinary care is essential for maintaining pets’ health and well-being. However, many pet owners delay or avoid taking their pets to the vet for various reasons. Rising costs, logistical challenges, and a lack of awareness are among the most common barriers. Understanding these issues is critical to ensuring more pets receive the medical attention they need.
Financial Constraints
One of the biggest reasons pet owners skip vet visits is the high cost of care. Veterinary services have become increasingly expensive, making it difficult for many families to afford routine check-ups, vaccinations, and emergency treatments. According to a 2024 survey, only 49% of pet owners feel financially prepared to handle a pet medical emergency, down from 59% in previous years (New York Post). Inflation and rising costs have put additional strain on households, forcing many to prioritize other expenses over pet healthcare.
For low-income pet owners, the cost of care can be prohibitive. A study found that nearly 28% of pet-owning households in the U.S. have experienced barriers to veterinary care, with finances being the primary obstacle (Talk Poverty). As a result, many pets do not receive timely treatment, leading to more severe and costly health issues in the long run.
The good news is that there are financing options outside of credit cards that can help pet owners access critical care for their pets. For example, Cherry Payment Plans enable pet owners to pay for the treatment cost over time, from 3 to 60 months. Pet owners who apply for financing with Cherry can qualify for true 0% APR and approval amounts up to $35,000. In addition, all applicants enjoy a soft credit check, meaning there is no impact on their credit score to apply for a Cherry payment plan and see what financing options are available.
Logistical Challenges and Access to Care
Even when pet owners want to seek care, logistical challenges can make vet visits difficult. Transportation issues, especially for large or anxious animals, can discourage owners from scheduling appointments. Some pet owners also struggle to find time due to busy work schedules or difficulty accessing vet clinics in rural areas.
The shortage of veterinarians in certain parts of the U.S. has further complicated access to care. The American Veterinary Medical Association (AVMA) reports that rural areas and low-income communities face a growing shortage of veterinarians, making it harder for residents in these regions to find affordable and convenient care for their pets.
Lack of Awareness About Preventive Care
Many pet owners may not fully understand the importance of preventive veterinary care. Some believe that vet visits are only necessary when a pet is visibly sick or injured, leading to a lack of routine check-ups and screenings. This mindset can result in missed opportunities for early diagnosis and treatment of conditions like dental disease, diabetes, and arthritis.
Education campaigns emphasizing the benefits of regular vet visits, such as improved long-term health and lower costs over time, are essential in addressing this issue.
If you’re a veterinarian interested in making vet care more accessible, please click here to offer Cherry Payment Plans. Cherry’s easy-to-use product and competitive merchant fee mean you can also save on time and money.