Vet Bill Assistance: 7 Ways to Manage Rising Pet Care Costs

As inflation continues to impact household budgets, pet parents are feeling the pinch – not just at the grocery store, but at the vet’s office, the pet store, and even the groomer. From routine checkups to emergency surgeries, the cost of caring for a beloved animal companion has risen sharply in recent years.

In fact, it’s estimated that the cost of veterinary care has risen by 60 percent in the past decade and research from Rover.com puts estimates for lifetime care at $34,000 for dogs and $32,000 for cats.

These spikes in the cost of care have potentially dire consequences for pets if owners aren’t financially prepared. Recent news articles from the New York Times and the Chicago Sun Times report that pet surrender rates are up in these cities, with rising costs cited as a big factor in the decision to give up pets. Additionally, a survey conducted by CanineJournal.com showed that pet owners would consider economic euthanasia when faced with a veterinary bill of $2,500 or more.

“Many pet parents underestimate the financial commitment that comes with pet care,” says Kirk Haggard, CEO of Independence Pet Holdings (IPH), one of North America’s leading pet insurance and service organizations. “We know that pets bring joy, comfort, and measurable mental and physical health benefits to our lives. Financial preparedness is a critical step in ensuring pets receive the care they need and deserve.”

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Why Vet Bills & Pet Care Costs Are Rising

There are a variety of reasons why pet care costs are increasing, but here are the main factors influencing rates and costs in the pet industry:

Pets Are Living Longer

Thanks to advances in veterinary medicine and a shift to pet owners considering pets as part of the family, dogs and cats are living longer than ever before. While this is a positive trend, it also means pets require more frequent and complex medical care over time, increasing the total cost of care throughout their lifespans.

Advanced Veterinary Care Is More Available

From MRIs and chemotherapy to regenerative therapies, today’s diagnostics and treatments are more sophisticated — and more expensive. As pets are increasingly seen as family members, pet parents are more willing to pursue the highest quality care available.

Veterinary Labor Shortages & Higher Supply-Chain Costs

That 60 percent increase in veterinary care costs didn’t happen out of nowhere. As the demand for veterinary professionals continues to increase, the labor market can’t keep up. This leads to more competition and higher salaries to retain veterinary talent.

Global supply chain increases have also hit the veterinary sector, with items like surgical gloves, syringes, vaccines, and medications increasing in price. Unfortunately, due to these higher costs, veterinary clinics often have to raise their service fees to stay in business.

Supply chain increases also directly impact the cost of pet food and care items like toys, supplements, and bedding. Manufacturers are paying more to buy supplies and make their products and passing those costs on to pet owners.

Low Pet Insurance Adoption Rates

Another place where pet parents are feeling the pinch is with pet insurance premiums. But to understand why premiums are increasing, you have to understand risk pooling. Essentially, pet owners contribute to a shared fund, which is then used to cover the unexpected medical expenses of pets who need care. The larger and more diverse the pool, the more stable and affordable premiums can be for everyone

But according to the North American Pet Health Insurance Association, only about 4 percent of U.S. pets are insured. And of those pets with insurance, a disproportionate amount of them are older pets with higher medical costs. This drives rates up. If more pet owners purchased pet insurance, premium costs would go down.

7 Ways to Manage Rising Pet Care Costs

While nobody can deny that the cost of pet parenthood is going up, there are steps you can take to manage those costs and ensure you are financially set up to provide your pet with the care they deserve.

Here’s a guide to help you navigate emergency vet bills and higher pet care costs so that you can find affordable solutions that work for your family.

1. Consider Pet Insurance

Pet insurance may be a lifesaver in an emergency and help offset the cost of high vet bills.

“Insurance may help offset major expenses, especially unexpected ones,” says Haggard. “For example, the average IPH claim submitted was $540 resulting in the average pet parent reimbursement of around $260. And when the average claim submitted exceeded $2,500, over two-thirds were able to cover the necessary cost of care — making critical care more accessible and lessening the difficult decision of economic euthanasia.”

Insurance policies vary widely in coverage, deductibles, and reimbursement rates. You can compare pet insurance plans right here at PetPlace to find a plan that fits your coverage needs and budget.

2. Explore Financing Options Like CareCredit

If you’re faced with a large vet bill and don’t have cash on hand, financing options like CareCredit may help. CareCredit is a credit card that many veterinary offices accept. It offers short-term financing with no interest if paid within the promotional period (typically 6 to 12 months). CareCredit can also be used in conjunction with pet insurance plans to help offset out-of-pocket costs.

Just be cautious: if you don’t pay off the balance in time, interest rates can be steep. Still, it’s a useful tool for managing unexpected costs without delaying care.

3. Sign Up for Pet Wellness Plans

Many veterinary clinics also accept wellness plans that bundle coverage for routine services, like exams, vaccinations, and dental cleanings, into a monthly payment. These plans aren’t insurance, but they may help you budget for predictable expenses and often come with discounts on other services.

Many pet insurance companies offer wellness-plan add-ons and some veterinary providers may have their own wellness offerings, too. Staying on top of preventative care is a good investment and can help lower pet care costs in the long run.

4. Look for Low-Cost Clinics and Community Resources

Vaccinations, spay/neuter procedures, and microchipping are essential, but they don’t have to be expensive. Many communities offer low-cost or free clinics through shelters, rescue organizations, or municipal programs.

Check with your local Humane Society, ASPCA, or municipal animal control for upcoming events. Mobile vet clinics often travel to underserved areas and may provide basic care at reduced rates.

These services are especially helpful for new pet owners or those caring for multiple animals.

5. Apply for Pet Ownership Grants and Assistance Programs

Yes, they exist! Several organizations offer grants or financial assistance to pet owners in need. While eligibility varies, these programs can help cover emergency medical care, food, or other essentials.

Here are a few to explore:

You can also search for local programs through animal shelters, rescue groups, and veterinary schools.

6. Save on Food, Supplies, and Medications

Pet food and supplies can add up quickly, but there are ways to cut costs without sacrificing quality:

Also, consider joining a pet food pantry if you’re experiencing financial hardship. These programs distribute donated food to families in need.

7. Schedule Routine Vet Visits

One of the best ways to save money is to keep your pet healthy. Regular checkups, a balanced diet, exercise, and parasite prevention can help avoid costly medical issues down the line.

“Unfortunately preventive care is often overlooked, which is the foundation of affordable pet ownership,” says Haggard. “Routine veterinary visits can help catch health issues early and before they become costly emergencies.”

Stay on top of vaccinations, dental care, and weight management to reduce the risk of chronic conditions and emergency visits.

You’re Not Alone

Caring for a pet is a joyful, rewarding experience. In fact, a global study conducted by Human Animal Bond Research Institute (HABRI) and Zoetis found that 98 percent of pet owners worldwide experience mental or physical health improvements from pet companionship.

But being a pet owner comes with a lifelong commitment and real financial responsibilities. If you’re feeling overwhelmed, know that help is available.

From insurance and wellness plans to community clinics and grant programs, there are many ways to manage pet care costs while still giving your dog or cat the love and care they deserve.