A new Gallup–PetSmart Charities survey reveals a troubling trend among U.S. pet owners: more than half are skipping or declining preventive veterinary care, putting millions of pets at risk for preventable health issues.
According to the data, 52% of American pet owners either postponed or refused care recommended by their veterinarians in the last 12 months. Of those, 37% visited the vet but declined specific treatments, while 15% avoided vet visits altogether.
The leading cause? Cost.
A staggering 71% of respondents said they couldn’t afford the care or didn’t believe it was worth the money. Surprisingly, this wasn’t limited to low-income households. One in three people earning over $90,000 also cited financial strain as the reason for skipping vet care.
Experts warn that these decisions come at a cost far beyond money. Missed vaccinations, dental checkups, and early screenings often lead to advanced health conditions that are painful for pets and even more expensive to treat.
Dr. Amanda Ross, a small animal vet in Illinois, says the numbers are heartbreaking. Many parents also reported that the stress of vet visits and a lack of lower-cost options made preventive care seem unmanageable. Only 27% of pet owners were offered affordable alter natives such as payment plans or basic service packages.
In response, animal welfare organizations and veterinary groups are calling for broader access to low-cost clinics, mobile vet services, and telehealth options. PetSmart Charities has pledged $100 million over five years to expand affordable care nationwide.
As more families treat pets as full members of the household, the pressure is growing on the veterinary industry to adapt. Advocates say better access to care isn’t just good medicine—it’s essential for keeping America’s pets healthy and at home.
