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Average emergency vet costs: what to expect

Emergencies involving your pet are stressful; we’re here to break down the cost and when to seek care.

— Medically reviewed by Dr. Jennifer Schott

Everything we create is factually accurate and biased toward science → meet our team of experts

Updated April 9, 2024

What is an emergency vet?

• Emergency vet care costs

What’s considered a pet emergency?

How to pay for an emergency visit.

• Frequently Asked Questions

The essentials

• Emergencies can be costly, so it’s best to be prepared — Understanding the cost of common emergencies can help you set up or maintain a proper emergency fund for your pet.
• There are several ways to finance emergency care for your pet — These include pet insurance , setting up a savings account, or even financing through a company like Care Credit.
• If you’re not sure that your pet needs emergency care, consider telehealth first — Speak to a professional over the phone or online first. It can save you time and money when assessing your pet’s condition.

As a pet parent, you know that illnesses, accidents, and injuries can happen in the blink of an eye. Getting your pet the help and care they need is going to be your priority. But this can come with some hefty bills.

On average, an emergency exam costs $100-$200, and an overnight stay can cost $1,000-$2,000. And, this may or may not include diagnostic tests. To help make sure you’re as prepared as possible, we’ve put together some information to help you know what to expect and how to save for a rainy day proactively.

Emergency veterinarians specialize in treating acute or life-threatening injuries and illnesses in animals. These vets typically work within veterinary hospitals or emergency clinics but often consult with general practice veterinarians. 

In some locations, the general practice vet, when working after business hours or on holidays, qualifies as the emergency vet.

Traditionally, emergency veterinary care costs more.

• Advanced training and skills. These vets are trained in a variety of ways to be able to tackle any emergency that comes their way, from cancer and car accidents to poisonings. 
• Additional treatments and diagnostics. Many facilities have an intensive care unit (ICU) with oxygen cages and advanced medical equipment, including CT scans and MRIs, that may not be found in a traditional vet’s office.
• Location. The cost of caring for your pet can depend on where you bring them for care. Regardless, your pet should be cared for by board-certified veterinarians who specialize in different areas of veterinary medicine.
• Specialty. If your pet needs to see a specialist in an emergency, such as a cardiologist or oncologist, the cost of care will be greater than if they were seeing a general practice emergency vet.
• Working off hours. These vets and their staff sometimes work nights and holidays. As such, they tend to be paid more than those who work during normal business hours. Plus, operating a facility 24/7 costs more.

The cost of an emergency vet versus a regular vet

The cost of an emergency vet visit varies due to several factors, like location, animal species, breed, size, and the emergency. 

So,  how much is an emergency vet visit? Let’s break down the general cost of treatment.

• Blood work: $80-$250
• Exam: $100-$200
• Standard imaging: $150-$600
• Pain medicine: $40-$80
• Hospitalization: $800-$2,500
• IV fluids: $60-$95
• Emergency surgery: $1,500-$5,000+

We know how scary pet emergencies can be and the difficulty a pet owner may have in determining what constitutes an emergency and what can wait. It’s best to be cautious and seek professional medical help via a telehealth consultation or an emergency vet clinic visit. 

However, these are just a few of the signs that your pet should be taken to a vet immediately.

• Gastroenteritis . Inflammation of the gastrointestinal tract can present as vomiting, diarrhea, and low-grade fever. 
• Poisoning. There’s no one symptom you can use to diagnose poisoning in pets. Clinical signs tend to differ depending on the type of toxin, but it often triggers gastrointestinal and neurological symptoms.
• Seizures. These can present as whole-body tremors or partial seizures that may only affect one part of the body or present as a sudden onset of rhythmic movements (tremors) or actions.
• Eye injury. Pus, excessive discharge, cloudiness, bleeding, and excessive eye rubbing can all be signs of an eye issue. 
• Bite wounds/animal attacks. If your pet gets into a scuffle with another pet or animal, seek treatment immediately. 
• Bloat of the belly . An enlarged belly can have several causes, including Gastric Dilatation-Volvulus.
• Severe trauma. This can be classified as any major accident like a fall, a car accident, being hit, etc. 
• Trouble during birth. If your pregnant dog hasn’t given birth to a pup 2-3 hours after their water has broken, if they’re straining during birth, or if your dog has been in second-stage labor for over 12 hours, seek help . 
• Broken bones. X-rays will be needed to diagnose a fractured bone, but your pet will likely limp or refrain from putting weight on the affected area. 
• Hypothermia. This can occur because of extended exposure to cold environments and can present as shaking, lethargy, and lower body temperature. 
• Heatstroke . This occurs when your pets’ natural cooling mechanisms can’t keep them cool and, if left unattended, can cause permanent damage.
• Difficulty breathing. If your pet is experiencing labored breathing or gasping, seek care.

When your pet has an emergency, you will likely need to make a payment or a credit card deposit for them to receive care. The staff at the emergency room should be able to help you navigate your options, but here are some of the most common ways to pay for your pet’s treatment.

Invest in a pet insurance policy

Pet insurance is a growing category, and many mainstream insurance companies are starting to offer it. Like the health insurance you have, there are different plans, but you can expect to pay a monthly or annual premium as well as a deductible. 

The amount of your deductible and the reimbursement you’ll receive can vary between plans and the insurance company you choose. So, you may want to do some research before purchasing to ensure you understand what and how much the plan covers. 

It’s important to purchase pet insurance early on in pet ownership because any pre-existing condition may not be covered. Lemonade is a great option that caters to your needs.

Build an emergency fund

If you don’t want to pay the premiums associated with health insurance or your pup isn’t eligible to be covered for any reason, you may consider building an emergency fund and adding to it regularly. 

Emergencies (and even routine medical needs like dental cleanings) can be costly. Preparing for whatever life throws at you will prevent you from having to make big decisions based on the funds available.

Consider financing options, like Care Credit

  Care Credit is a financing option that will allow you to pay off the balance from your pet’s care over time. This way, the vet’s office will have the funds needed to cover your pet’s emergency care and you won’t be facing a huge mountain of debt all at once. 

However, you must qualify for Care Credit based on your credit score. If you qualify, you will be approved for a certain amount of money which you will need to pay off in a certain time to avoid a high interest rate.

Work out a payment plan

Some veterinary practices may allow you to pay a deposit for your pet’s emergency care, and then pay the remaining balance over time. This is becoming less common as many veterinary offices face clients who skip out on payments. If you don’t pay your bill, then the veterinary hospital will likely send you to collections.

No matter how conscientious you are as a pet owner, emergency vet visits can happen so it’s best to be as prepared as you can. Having a plan in place will help you to feel calm and in control while your pet is getting the best medical care possible. Remember that the medical staff is doing the best they can to help your pet be kind and patient with them.

Frequently asked questions

How much does it cost to get a dog’s stomach pumped.

If your dog has consumed a toxin, poison, or item that they’re allergic to, vets will try to induce vomiting to get the substance out of their system. If that doesn’t work, and all options are exhausted, a gastric lavage may be the best way to help them. 

These procedures require traditional routine diagnostics, blood work, x-rays, and more,  as well as the anesthetic and oxygen therapy used during the procedure. While the exact cost for you will depend on several factors, you can expect to pay $1,500-2,500. 

How much does a vet visit cost near me?

Veterinary costs will vary depending on your location and the number of vet practices in the area. Plus, your pet’s size, breed, and health needs will also play into the final cost you owe. 

How much does it cost for a dog to get stitches?

The type of stitch that your dog receives will ultimately determine the cost. Traditional sutures and dissolving sutures tend to be of similar cost, whereas staples may cost less. However, you must also pay for an exam fee, anesthetic, the procedure and bandage material, and any follow-ups. In total, this could be anywhere from $800-1,000+. 

How often should a dog go to the vet?

This all depends on your dog’s age and health! Puppies need to see the vet once a month until they are 4-5 months old. Adult dogs (1-7 years) usually only need to go once for annual visits (depending on your pet’s overall health), and senior dogs (8+ years) should be seen twice a year.

Is it cheaper to go to an emergency vet than a regular vet for a sick pet?

More often than not, emergency vet visits may cost more simply due to the urgency of the situation that brings you there. While the cost can be slightly higher, the important thing is getting your dog care as soon as you can. Emergency facilities are there exactly for that reason.

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Average Cost Of Emergency Vet Visits

Taking your pet to an emergency vet is similar to how we go to an ER or urgent care clinic.

Usually you will take your pet to an animal hospital when your regular vet is closed or the health of your pet is beyond what your local vet can handle.

Emergency veterinary clinics are usually open 24/7 and always have a qualified ER veterinarian on staff.

Emergency veterinary clinics are also there to handle crisis situations that your regular veterinarian may not have the capacity to take care of in their specific clinic setting.

For instance, various medical conditions require pets to be hospitalized overnight with care from veterinary nurses, and some general practice veterinary clinics just do not have the capacity to provide that service.

General Costs of Going To An Emergency Vet

Depending on the reason you are having to take your pet to the emergency vet clinic, the costs can vary drastically.

An emergency surgery is going to cost a lot more than an ER visit for a torn toenail.

The cost also may vary based off of the size of your pet, as larger dogs will need more medications and fluids, thus making their ER visit cost more than the cost for a small dog or cat.

The chart below provides a general breakdown of broad categories of diagnostics & treatments your pet may need at an emergency veterinary clinic.

These cost will range depending on where you live in the USA, how many vets are in your area and the time of care.

As you can see the prices will range depending on the type of treatment.

The list above may not be what you pay for services in your area.

The prices are averages based on the type of treatment being offered.

Other costs not mentioned would be, medications, follow up appointments, other office fees.

For example, a dog that was hit by a car will need multiple follow up appointments which will increase the overall cost of their bill.

How To Pay Your Emergency Vet Bill

After your pet is examined and a plan is set forth to determine what diagnostics and/or treatments they need, the veterinary staff will provide you with an estimated bill.

This may vary location to location, but most emergency clinics require that you pay half your estimated bill up front and the remainder when you take your pet home.

When you take your pet home depends on the severity of their condition.

For example, if your dog was hit by a car, they may require multiple surgeries, follow up care, bandage replacement, oxygen, medications, etc.

These costs will add up over time. The emergency vet clinic will require payment for most services up front before you take your dog home.

Having a large estimated bill can be initially overwhelming for sure.

Top Two Ways To Pay For Your Emergency Vet Bill

Pawp – a new way to pay for unexpected vet bills.

For those looking for ways to pay for their emergency vet bill, Pawp is a newer idea that is similar to insurance but is different.

Unlike pet insurance, Pawp covers up to 6 pets in your home and allows you access to $3,000 for emergency medical care.

What attracts people to Pawp is their price of just $24/month for all of the benefits listed above.

They offer virtual care, where you can chat with a licensed veterinarian – this alone can save a bit of money by not having to bring your pet to a local vet every time.

Care Credit – Veterinary Financing

Almost all emergency clinics take “ Care Credit-Veterinary Financing ”, which can help you pay your emergency bill owed to them without having to take it all out of pocket immediately.

Care Credit is essentially a pet healthcare credit card. You can apply for it online even while you are waiting at the clinic.

Once you are approved, Care Credit pays everything up front and you pay Care Credit back over the course of a few months, usually interest free.

This can help ease the burden of having to pay a large bill all at once.

Once approved for Care Credit you can use this new form of payment for all future vet costs.

Don’t Hesitate To Ask For Help With Your Bill

Emergency clinics that are looking out for you and your pet’s best interests.

They can be a great place to get life saving treatment when your regular vet is closed.

When your primary veterinarian opens, they may suggest transferring care to them which may help save in costs.

If you are struggling with paying your vet bill , you can ask for discounts or see if they can help with the costs of some of the procedures.

Depending on the emergency vet, you might be able to get a discount of 30-50% off your bill.

No matter what you will have to pay that bill before leaving, whether you put it on credit card, care credit, Pawp, or have family/friends help.

It might seem like some clinics, especially emergency veterinary clinics are out to take your money.

This is more often not the case and they just want to help you and your pet.

It may be tempting to try to wait things out and avoid taking your pet to an ER clinic, but if you are concerned about your pet’s condition it is always best to have them evaluated.

If you are not sure if it is an emergency , you can always call your nearest emergency clinic and tell them what is going on with your pet.

They can help guide you in the right direction on if you should go ahead and take them in or if it is something that can wait until the next day.

When To Contact An Emergency Vet

Just like an ER for people, our pets have a similar option to get immediate help and that is an Emergency Vet or Animal Hospital.

The cost of going to one of these facilities will be more than if you went to your local veterinarian.

Most general vet practices will have you go to an emergency vet for life threatening illnesses or injuries.

Some veterinarians are not equipped or can handle certain injuries, so if you are in need of immediate help it is always best to contact your veterinarian before bringing your pet to them.

An emergency is an injury or illness that cannot wait to be dealt with, such as:

• Your dog has bloody diarrhea
• Your dog is vomiting black
• Your dog has parvo
• Your dog was hit by a vehicle
• Any major trauma (broken bone, major cuts)
• Your dog is bleeding
• Dog chewed a chicken bone
• Your dog is breathing fast (can’t catch breath)

Leslie Brooks graduated from the University of Tennessee College of Veterinary Medicine in 2012. After graduation she moved to Indianapolis to do an intensive one-year internship at a specialty practice and then began working as a small animal general practitioner. She ran her own house call practice for three years, visiting pets in people’s homes. Currently, she works part time in clinical practice and volunteering her free time to serve pets of the homeless. Read more about us here .

There are 4 comments:

Glad to find this article! We have just experienced a heart breaking loss with our 2.5 year old Pointer. My husband and I were out of town when our dog fell very ill. A family member took him to the Emergency Vet Hospital. He was in complete kidney and liver failure due to a toxin of some sort. We still don’t fully understand. The Vet counseled on the phone and then we spoke with a technician who gave us a breakdown of the cost of treatment with no guarantees that it would save him. It was going to cost several thousand dollars for IV therapy, antibiotics and pain meds with hospitalization. My question is, should pet owners of high risk dogs who tend to eat and drink anything in sight take out Pet Insurance? Does the insurance pay off in case of emergency situations?

Late reply but yes insurance is worth it in emergency cases and especially if your dog eats everything. We have a lab that eats everything and he has had an intestinal blockage and might have one now. He eats socks, twigs, hair bands- you name it he’ll eat it. Insurance also reimburses for regular vet visits too.

Thank you. This was very helpful.

Hi Barbara, thank you! Just keep in mind that the average emergency vet bill will range depending on where you live. Kind of like health insurance or even car insurance. You can’t really quote a price that will work for the entire USA. If your pet ends up in an animal hospital just know that you have options on how to pay that bill.

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How much does an emergency vet cost? Make sure you're prepared for the cost of care

Emergency vet costs can soon mount up. Find out how much you might need should the worst happen

When your pet is in a crisis and you’re rushing to the emergency clinic, you shouldn’t have to dedicate mental time or energy to wondering, “how much does an emergency vet cost?” Instead, your mental energy needs to be focused on your pet, so you can drive safely, provide the veterinary team with the information they need to begin their workup, and make rational decisions as needed. 

Many pets experience a veterinary emergency at some time in their life and, unfortunately, emergency veterinary care is often expensive. Even if you have purchased the best pet insurance , you will likely still be responsible for paying veterinary expenses up front until your insurance can reimburse you. Therefore, it’s important to plan ahead. 

Emergency veterinarians treat pets when their regular veterinarian’s office is closed (on nights, weekends, or holidays). They treat conditions ranging from mild (such as a hot spot on the skin) to life-threatening trauma (such as a dog that has been hit by a car). On a holiday weekend, an emergency vet may even see everyday cases, like ear infections , that are not life-threatening but should not go days without care. Make sure you talk to your vet about their emergency protocols in advance, so you know who you need to contact and where you should take your pet if an emergency arises or your pet needs care when your veterinarian’s office is closed.

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Common pet emergencies

One of the common conditions seen by emergency vets is gastroenteritis, or vomiting and diarrhea. In some cases, the pet may have relatively mild signs; a dog may have had just a few episodes of diarrhea, but its owner wants to know how to help a dog with diarrhoea before the dog’s condition worsens or before the carpet in their home is ruined. In other cases, however, the pet is very ill and may require more aggressive treatment. A dog that is dehydrated after several days of vomiting and diarrhea will need a full medical workup to determine the underlying cause of the illness, plus hospitalization and intravenous (IV) fluids.

Emergency vets also treat trauma and injuries. These cases may range from pad abrasions, to fractures, to severe trauma such as dog fights or being hit by a car.. Many of these cases will need surgery, but some can be stabilized in hospital over the weekend or even sent home with painkillers. 

Other potential causes of emergency clinic visits include sudden weakness or collapse, seizures or other neurologic issues, breathing difficulties, and toxin ingestion. These conditions vary significantly in their workup and treatment, but an emergency veterinarian is prepared to handle any of these cases. 

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The cost of emergency veterinary care 

The cost of a veterinary emergency visit varies, depending on a number of factors, including the day, time, location, type of disease or condition, size of your dog, and the experience and equipment of the treating veterinarian. 

Your vet will first perform a thorough physical exam on your pet. Don’t be surprised if they seem to avoid or ignore the problem at first – they need to ensure your pet is stable and that nothing else is wrong. In many cases, the veterinarian may listen to your pet’s heart and lungs and check their mucous membrane color before focusing on the part of the body that is related to your pet’s presenting complaint. 

Based on the exam findings, the veterinarian will then recommend appropriate diagnostic tests and treatments. Some pets may require only medication, while others will require a comprehensive workup and hospitalization. Obviously, a more involved workup or more invasive treatments will be accompanied with a higher cost. Once your veterinarian has put together a treatment plan for your pet, the costs of these services will be reviewed with you and you can decide whether or not to authorize the recommended services.

According to PetPlan pet insurance, the average cost of a veterinary emergency is $800 to $1,500 . Keep in mind, however, that this is just an average. This estimate is also several years old, and veterinary costs (like other costs) have likely increased since the time this study was performed. Some emergency clinic visits, such as a straightforward case of acute diarrhea, may cost just $200-300 for an exam and medications. If your pet is hit by a car and requires emergency surgery followed by hospitalization, however, your costs may easily climb to $5,000 or more. Therefore, the costs of emergency care are rarely easy to predict. 

Preparing for emergencies is an important aspect of responsible pet ownership. Hopefully, your pet will live a happy, healthy life and you will never find yourself dealing with a serious veterinary emergency. If an emergency does occur and you’re prepared, however, you will be in a much better position to authorize high-quality veterinary care. There is nothing we vets dislike more than knowing there’s something that can be done, but the money isn’t there to allow us to do the work.

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Pet insurance reimburses the cost of emergency care

One popular option for managing the cost of emergency care is pet insurance. In some ways, pet insurance works like human health insurance. You pay a monthly premium in exchange for coverage of a certain percentage of your pet’s medical expenses. You will have a deductible or ‘excess’; expenses will not be eligible for coverage until you exceed this deductible. For some insurance plans this excess is barely more than the cost of the initial consultation, meaning you may find that all further tests and treatments are covered.

Pet insurance usually works by reimbursing you for the cost of the treatment once you’ve submitted the claim. That means that you’ll still have to have access to a sum of money for the vet bill, but only temporarily. If this is likely to be a problem, talk to your vet about whether they accept ‘direct claims’ from any pet insurance providers. This means the cost of the visit will be kept on your account and your vet will claim from the insurer directly, so you aren’t out of pocket. Not all vets and not all insurers will work together on this, so you might have to do some hunting around! Alternatively, you could use a credit card or CareCredit® to fund your pet’s care until you are reimbursed by your insurance company. 

 What does pet insurance cover? 

Pet insurance primarily exists to cover illnesses and injuries. However, there are a few exceptions. Both pre-existing conditions and hereditary conditions are often excluded from pet insurance coverage.

Pre-existing conditions are conditions that were diagnosed before you purchased the insurance policy. For example, if your dog was diagnosed with luxating patellas before you purchased the policy, your insurance policy will likely never cover any treatment related to your pet’s knees. If your pet has had a history of repeated urinary tract infections , your insurance provider may refuse to cover any future urinary issues.

Hereditary conditions are conditions that are genetic, or contained in the DNA. These conditions are inherited through a pet’s parents. Examples of genetic conditions include hip dysplasia, tracheal collapse, and third eyelid prolapse (or “cherry eye”). Many pet insurance companies exclude hereditary conditions from coverage, even if they develop after the policy is purchased. 

Many pet insurers also do not cover any costs associated with breeding. So, if you plan to breed your dog and she ends up needing an emergency C-section, most insurers won’t cover this. If she develops mastitis after delivering the puppies, this is also unlikely to be covered by pet insurance.

If you purchase pet insurance, it’s important to read through your policy carefully. Pay careful attention to your financial responsibilities and what is and is not covered by the policy. This can prevent a lot of headaches and frustration! In general, however, pet insurance is a great option to help defray costs associated with emergency veterinary care. We’d also recommend you find out how to get cheaper pet insurance as there are few steps you can take to limit the cost. However, take care shopping around – any symptoms your dog has had with the old insurer can be ‘pre-existing conditions’ with the new insurer!

What if you don’t have pet insurance?

When a pet emergency occurs and you don’t have pet insurance, your options are more limited. Hopefully, you have savings or a credit card available to handle the veterinary bill. If you are a pet owner who has elected not to purchase pet insurance, you should start building a veterinary emergency fund from an early age. Knowing that the average cost of an emergency is over $1,000, you might set a goal to have $2,000 saved by the time your dog reaches 2 years old. Assuming you obtain your puppy when they are four months old, saving just $100 a month would ensure that you are well-equipped to handle an emergency by the time your dog is two years old. If you can afford to save more on a monthly basis, you can likely reach your goal even sooner (or set a higher savings goal). Don’t use this fund for routine veterinary care like vaccines or parasite preventatives; instead, leave this fund alone and use it only in the case of an emergency. 

If you do not have available savings or a credit card on hand, many emergency veterinarians in the US offer credit through a company known as CareCredit®. CareCredit® is a credit card designed specifically for medical and veterinary expenses. You can apply online or via telephone and receive a decision within minutes. If you’re approved, there is often a period of interest-free financing available, which may be up to two years. After this interest-free period ends, the interest rate will increase significantly, to a rate that is comparable to a typical credit card. 

If you live elsewhere or are unable to get approved for CareCredit®, consider reaching out to friends and family for help. Some clients use GoFundMe® to reach out to friends, family, and social media contacts. Non-profit foundations are also sometimes available to help fund pets’ veterinary care, but working with a non-profit is not always logistically feasible in an emergency situation. Most emergency clinics will require at least an initial deposit before beginning treatment, so you will need to have funds available in a short timeframe. 

Remember, talk to your vet about your finances and budget – we can’t help if we don’t know what you can and can’t afford. It may be that we can offer a second-best option that’s significantly cheaper. Your vet may also know where else you can go for financial help.

Hope for the best, prepare for the worst

 While we all hope that we will never have to deal with emergency vet costs, the reality is that emergencies happen. There’s a decent chance that you experience at least one or two emergency visits over your pet’s lifetime. Plan ahead and have financial resources in place for emergencies, whether that is a pet insurance plan, a well-funded pet savings account, or accessible credit. Having the ability to pay for emergencies will ensure that your veterinarian can provide your pet with the best possible care. 

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Dr. Barnette is a graduate of the University of Florida, where she received both her B.S. in Zoology and her Doctor of Veterinary Medicine (DVM). She has 15 years of clinical experience as a small animal veterinarian, treating dogs, cats, and occasional exotic patients. She now works as a freelance veterinary writer, creating educational content for veterinarians, veterinary team members, and dedicated pet owners. Dr. Barnette lives in southwest Florida with her husband and daughter (plus two cats, a dog, and a rescued dove!) and enjoys kayaking, biking, and hiking. Learn more about Dr. Barnette at www.linkedin.com/in/catherinebarnette .

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How Much Does an Emergency Vet Visit Cost? (and How to Pay for It)

Jessica Foster  | Oct 16, 2023

Emergency vet visits: the unexpected roller coaster ride of pet parenthood.

We've all been there – one minute, your cat is reenacting Olympic gymnastics on your curtains, or your dog has mistaken a bee for a chew toy, and the next, you're caught in a whirlwind of worry, Google searches, and financial stress.

But fear not, intrepid pet parents. You have options when it comes to covering hefty emergency vet bills.

In this article, we’ll be diving into the average costs of emergency vet visits – plus, how to pay for them.

From unexpected splurges to sneaky ways to save, we’ll break down the dollars and cents of those unplanned pet predicaments, ensuring your four-legged companion receives the care they deserve while saving you money.

Common Types of Pet Emergencies

But first, what is a pet emergency?

There are many situations that might warrant a trip to the emergency vet . These can range from sudden injuries to serious medical conditions. If your pet is experiencing any one of these conditions, it may be time to take them to the emergency vet clinic:

• Trauma and accidents: This includes sudden trauma such as being hit by a car, taking a long fall, getting attacked by another animal, breaking a bone, severe burns, etc.
• Respiratory distress: If your pet is having difficulty breathing, is choking on an object, or is having an allergic reaction leading to respiratory issues, take them to the emergency vet immediately.
• Gastrointestinal issues: Ingestion of toxic substances or swallowing foreign objects (e.g., toys, bones) can lead to severe gastrointestinal issues.
• Cardiovascular emergencies: If you notice that your pet is having a rapid or irregular heart rate, appears to be in shock, or has collapsed/fainted, this warrants an emergency vet visit.
• Neurological emergencies: Signs of a neurological emergency may include seizures or convulsions, sudden disorientation, inability to walk, and/or head trauma.
• Poisoning: Consumption of poisonous plants, chemicals, or toxic foods (e.g., chocolate, grapes, onions) may require a visit to the emergency vet.
• Severe allergic reactions: Swelling of the face, eyes, or throat and difficulty breathing may all be signs of a severe allergic reaction .
• Persistent vomiting or diarrhea: If your pet has persistent vomiting or diarrhea, or bloody or black stools, it may be time to take them to the emergency vet.

Other examples of pet emergencies

There are other types of pet emergencies that can occur, though this list is far from exhaustive. If your pet is acting unusual, appears to have a serious injury, or is unresponsive, take them to the emergency vet immediately.

• Heatstroke or hypothermia: e.g. overheating in hot weather or exposure to extreme cold
• Reproductive emergencies: e.g. birthing complications, dystocia (difficult or obstructed labour)
• Urinary emergencies: Urinary blockages in cats, urinary tract infections, blood in urine
• Eye injuries: e.g. eye infection, trauma to the eye, corneal ulcers
• Lacerations and wounds: e.g. deep cuts or punctures, excessive bleeding
• Sudden lethargy or weakness: e.g. unexplained weakness or inability to stand, sudden loss of energy
• Severe pain: e.g. crying out in pain, reluctance to move or be touched
• Severe dental issues: e.g. broken teeth, infections in the mouth

How Much Does an Emergency Vet Visit Cost?

Generally, emergency vet visits can range from a few hundred dollars to several thousand dollars , depending on the severity of the condition, the required treatments, and the area in which you're located.

Here's a breakdown of potential emergency types, along with average cost ranges for each. US prices have been converted to Canadian dollars.

Please note that these are general estimates and actual costs can vary significantly. Also, these estimates do not account for aftercare, follow-up visits, medication costs, or potential complications that may arise during or after treatment.

Factors Affecting Emergency Vet Costs

As stated, the table above reflects the estimated average costs for different types of vet emergencies. It’s always best to contact emergency vet services in your area to get a more accurate estimate of veterinary costs for your pet.

Here are some factors that can affect how much you will pay for an emergency vet visit:

• Type of emergency
• Severity of condition
• Diagnostic tests needed
• Required treatment procedure
• Whether hospitalization is needed
• Medications
• Specialist consultations
• Location of the vet clinic
• Time of day
• Equipment required
• Type of facility
• Size and type of pet
• Unforeseen complications
• Anesthesia or sedation
• Follow-up care required

How to Pay for Your Emergency Vet Bill

Dealing with an unexpected pet emergency can be stressful. Not only are you worrying about your pet’s health, you may be anxious about facing a massive emergency vet bill.

Fortunately, you have several options when it comes to covering emergency vet costs. While some situations may require you to pay out of pocket, it’s always worth it to do your research and learn about various payment options.

Here’s how to pay for an emergency vet bill, including several cost-saving options:

Step 1: Assess the situation

Before panicking about an emergency vet bill, slow down and try to assess the situation.

Evaluate the severity of the emergency and determine if immediate veterinary care is necessary. Is your pet facing a life-threatening situation? Or, is this a condition that can be remedied through a regular vet visit?

If it is an emergency, seek emergency veterinary care right away. If you are not sure, call your local veterinarian for their expert opinion.

Step 2: Contact your veterinarian

Once you’ve determined your pet is facing a medical emergency, call your veterinarian or an emergency animal hospital to inform them about the situation. They can provide guidance on when and how to bring your pet in for treatment.

If possible, ask the vet for an estimated cost of the emergency treatment based on the information you provided. Keep in mind that they may not be able to provide an estimate until they evaluate your pet in person.

Step 3: Evaluate payment options

Most veterinary clinics and hospitals will inform you of the various payment options available. Sometimes, they may even provide payment assistance programs to pet parents in need.

Here are a few common payment methods for covering emergency vet bills:

• Cash, debit, or credit card: If you have the funds available, paying with cash, a debit card, or a credit card is a straightforward option.
• Pet insurance: Check your pet insurance policy to see if the emergency is covered. Contact your insurance provider to understand the reimbursement process and coverage limits.
• CareCredit: You may wish to consider applying for a medical credit card that offers special financing options for veterinary expenses such as CareCredit ™*. Review terms, interest rates, and repayment options to ensure this is right for you.
• Payment plans: Inquire if the veterinary clinic offers payment plans to spread out the cost over time. Ask them about any associated fees or interest.
• Crowdfunding: If needed, you can explore crowdfunding platforms like GoFundMe ™* to seek financial assistance from friends, family, or people on social media.
• Personal loans: Evaluate the option of taking out a personal loan from a bank or credit union. Understand the interest rates and repayment terms.
• Veterinary payment assistance programs: Research charitable organizations that provide financial assistance for pet emergency expenses. Ask your vet about eligibility and application requirements.
• Family and friends: Consider reaching out to family members or friends who might be willing to help financially. A little help can go a long way.
• Negotiation with the veterinary clinic: Depending on the situation and clinic policies, you might be able to negotiate a payment plan or discuss options for reducing costs. However, this may not always be possible.

Once you’ve evaluated the available payment options and have the estimated cost of treatment, it’s time to make an informed decision on how to proceed with your pet's care. If needed, discuss your concerns with the veterinarian or their staff. They may be able to provide helpful advice or assistance.

Step 4: Keep records

No matter what payment option(s) you choose, always keep a record of your emergency vet payments. Save copies of all communications, estimates, receipts, and payments. These records may be needed for future reference and potential pet insurance claims.

Step 5: Plan for the future

Once the emergency is resolved, take time to review how the situation was handled and explore ways to prepare for future pet emergencies.

This may include signing up for pet insurance, which can help you cover the costs of unexpected pet illnesses, surgeries , and other types of emergencies in the future. Furkin Pet Insurance helps pet owners cover up to 80% of eligible expenses, providing the care pets need and the cost savings you deserve.

How to Prepare for and Reduce Emergency Vet Costs

You can’t always anticipate a pet emergency, but there are steps you can take now to prepare for the future. By investing in your pet’s health, signing up for pet insurance, and creating a wellness budget, you can help prevent the occurrence and costs of a pet emergency.

Here are a few tips for how to prevent, prepare for, and/or reduce emergency vet costs:

Do your best to prevent pet emergencies

Reducing emergency vet bills involves proactive pet care, preventive measures, and knowing how to respond to potential health issues. Prevention is one of the best ways to avoid costly emergency vet bills.

Here are some strategies to help you minimize the likelihood of emergencies and manage costs:

• Maintain regular veterinary care: Schedule regular check-ups and vaccinations for your pet. Preventive care can catch health issues early, saving you from potential emergencies down the line.
• Keep up a healthy lifestyle: Provide your pet with a balanced diet, regular exercise, and mental stimulation. A healthy lifestyle can prevent obesity and reduce the risk of certain health problems.
• Pet-proof your home: Remove hazards and toxic substances from your home to prevent accidents and poisoning. Keep harmful plants, chemicals, and small objects out of reach.
• Supervise your pet: Supervise your pet during outdoor activities and walks to prevent accidents and altercations with other animals. Use a leash and harness to prevent them from wandering off, eating toxic materials, etc.
• Spay or neuter your pet: Spaying or neutering your pet can reduce the risk of certain health issues, such as certain cancers and reproductive emergencies.
• Keep up with dental care: Maintain good oral hygiene to prevent dental issues. These can lead to serious health problems if left untreated.
• Use parasite prevention: Use flea, tick, and heartworm preventives as recommended by your veterinarian to reduce the risk of parasitic infections.
• Learn pet first aid: Learn how to respond to minor injuries or illnesses to prevent the need for immediate vet visits.
• Microchip your pet: Microchip your pet to increase the chances of a safe return in case they get lost.
• Take pet safety classes: Attend pet safety and first aid classes to learn about, prevent, and prepare for pet emergencies.

Create a pet emergency budget

Building a pet emergency budget is another way to prepare for future vet bills. However, this is not foolproof, as you can’t always estimate the cost of emergency vet bills. For example, if you chose to save $50 a month, after two years you would have saved just $1200, yet many unexpected veterinary expenses can far exceed that amount saved. This also assumes you never had to tap into the “pet savings fund” for other unexpected expenses such as home or car repairs. Subscribing to comprehensive pet insurance is the best way to cover your pet’s needs and prepare for unexpected vet costs.

That said, having some money saved up could help you pay your deductible or cover out-of-pocket expenses before you’re reimbursed by your pet insurance company.

Here are some tips for creating a pet emergency budget:

• Consider establishing a separate bank account for pet emergency savings. Alternatively, you can stow away cash in a safe place, like a safe or piggy bank.
• Research and add up the average costs of common emergency situations and treatments in your area. This can include things like X-rays, bloodwork, wound treatment, and surgical procedures. Look at both minor and major emergencies to get a better idea of the potential range of expenses.
• Factor in your pet’s current health. If your pet has any pre-existing conditions or is prone to certain health issues, you might want to save more in anticipation of potential emergency care related to those conditions.
• If you have pet insurance, consider the deductible amount. Your emergency fund should ideally cover the deductible in case you need to file a claim.
• Assess your monthly budget and determine how much you can comfortably set aside for your pet's emergency fund. It's better to save a smaller amount consistently over time than to not save at all.

Sign up for Pet Health Insurance

Signing up for pet health insurance is one of the best ways to reduce the out-of-pocket costs for an emergency vet visit. At Furkin, you could get up to 80% of your total vet expenses covered during a pet emergency.

Furkin Pet Insurance helps ensure that your furry companions receive the necessary medical care they need during an emergency, without overwhelming you with emergency vet costs. Furkin's pet insurance coverage offers financial protection against many emergency situations, including unexpected accidents, illnesses, and injuries.

With quick reimbursement and flexible plans tailored to individual needs, Furkin Pet Insurance provides a safety net that allows you to focus on providing the best care for your pet!

Research your options

Worried that you can’t afford your emergency vet bill? You have options .

While we’ve already covered some common payment options (like payment plans, personal loans, or crowdfunding), there are a couple of alternative options to consider. We always recommend doing your research to look for programs, wellness plans, and discounts in your area or online.

Here are a few creative ways to cover emergency vet expenses:

• Plan a community fundraiser: Organize a community fundraiser or crowdfunding campaign to raise funds for your pet's emergency expenses. Engaging friends, family, neighbours, and local pet lovers can help spread the word and attract support.
• Check out pet-assistance charities: Research and reach out to pet-assistance charities, foundations, or nonprofit organizations in your area or online. Some organizations offer grants or financial assistance to pet owners in need.
• Barter or trade services: If you have skills or services that can be bartered or traded, consider offering your services in exchange for assistance with your pet's emergency bills. This could include pet-sitting, dog walking, or other services.
• Research local pet clubs: Check if there are local pet clubs, organizations, or associations that offer support for pet owners during emergencies. They might have resources or contacts that can help.
• Visit veterinary school clinics: Veterinary schools often have teaching clinics where students, under supervision, provide veterinary care at reduced costs. This could be an option for more affordable emergency care.
• Join an online pet community: Join online pet communities and forums where pet owners share experiences and advice. These communities might have resources or ideas for covering emergency costs.

Save Money with Emergency Pet Insurance

And there you have it, dear pet parent – a crash course in the realm of emergency vet visit costs. From weathering pet emergencies to wrangling those unexpected bills, you're now equipped with the resources you need to prioritize your pet’s health without burdening your pocketbook.

But before we wrap up, let's not forget our secret weapon in this budget battle: pet insurance.

With Furkin emergency pet insurance by your side, those unpredictable pet predicaments can become a lot more manageable. We cover a range of pet emergencies, from trauma and injuries, or allergies and illnesses. So go forth, pet parent, with the savvy savings tactics and handy sidekick of Furkin insurance. Because when it comes to your pet's health and your wallet's well-being, there's no adventure too wild to conquer.

*Furkin is not affiliated with CareCredit or GoFundMe and does not endorse or recommend these products.

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Up to $20,000 in annual coverage

Up to 80% of your vet fees covered

3 deductible options to choose from

You and your pet can bounce back from an accident or illness with our really simple coverage.

If you’ve looked at pet insurance coverage before, but didn’t bite – it’s time to get some Furkin Pet Insurance!

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How Much Does an Emergency Vet Cost for Dogs? 2024 Price Update

Image Credit: RossHelen, Shutterstock

Last Updated on April 12, 2024 by Dogster Team

VET APPROVED

REVIEWED & FACT-CHECKED BY

Dr. Tabitha Henson

DVM (Veterinarian)

The information is current and up-to-date in accordance with the latest veterinarian research.

Your dog may become sick or injured when your vet clinic is closed and when this happens, you will have to rush your dog to an emergency vet clinic.

Beyond the worry and fear of this kind of visit, sometimes the price is a factor. How much a visit to an emergency vet clinic costs depends on several factors. But as a general overview, the average cost of an emergency vet could be anywhere from $250 to as much as $8,000. Here, we get into what these are and provide you with a range of possible prices that you can expect to pay under those circumstances.

• The Importance of Your Dog’s Health

We all want our pets to be in good health for their entire lives, but accidents and health conditions can happen unexpectedly. Several conditions can lead you to bring your dog to an emergency vet clinic, including:

• Injuries and trauma (possible broken bones, deep gashes, burns, etc.)
• Gastroenteritis (diarrhea, vomiting)
• Neurological disorders (seizures)
• Weakness and collapse
• Difficulties breathing
• The ingestion of toxins
• Extreme lethargy
• Significant bleeding
• Straining to urinate or blood in urine

Of course, this list is not exhaustive, and there are times when you will need to figure out when it’s a real emergency . If you’re unsure if your dog requires a vet’s help, call ahead to the emergency clinic, and the staff can help you decide if it’s necessary to bring your dog in. You also have the advantage of giving them advance notice that you’re coming.

• How Much Does an Emergency Vet Visit Cost?

How much a visit to an emergency vet will cost depends on numerous details, including the time, day, location, size of your dog, the clinic itself, and what condition or injury your dog has.

The vet will typically start with a thorough physical exam of your dog to determine if there are any other underlying issues beyond what you brought them in for.

This could be followed by the vet recommending treatments and further diagnostic tests, which might include running bloodwork or a urinalysis, X-rays, ultrasounds, surgery, etc. In most cases, your dog might only need medication, but in some circumstances, a stay at the clinic and extensive workup might be in order.

The average cost of an emergency vet could be anywhere from $250 to as much as $8,000.

The following chart should help break down these costs.

Remember that these costs are just general estimates and averages. With so many varying factors, it’s difficult to precisely pinpoint what you’ll end up paying.

However, even the estimated prices are impressive. If you have a desire to save money during an emergency for your dog, it doesn’t make you a bad owner. It shows that you want to anticipate such situations and save your nerves.

Being a pet parent is not only about fun games and cuddling with your dog. It is also about being responsible and making decisions about what’s best for your pooch and you.

Therefore, the sooner you start thinking about pet alternative insurance and how to act in emergencies, the less stressful such a case will be for you.

• Additional Costs to Anticipate

Beyond the visit, treatment, and any diagnostic tests, there are a few additional expenses that you might need to pay.

Any medications that your vet prescribes for your dog—oral medications or even topical treatments—will need to be paid for separately.

There’s the possibility of equipment, particularly after surgery, such as e-collars and vests, so your pup doesn’t chew and lick the wound.

You’ll potentially need to bring your dog back to the clinic for follow-up appointments, particularly if your dog was physically injured. There’s also the chance of you needing other specialty items, depending on your dog’s condition, such as prescription dog food.

• How Can I Afford an Emergency?

There are a few steps that you can take to help you afford an emergency situation.

• Talk to the Vet

First of all, let the vet know about your finances. This way, they can find less expensive alternatives that where possible, won’t compromise your dog’s health. This can also include asking for generic rather than brand-name prescriptions and filling them at your own pharmacy.

• Specialized Credit Cards

There are specialized credit cards that you can consider. It enables you to pay for your dog’s and your own medical needs. You’ll just need to make sure the emergency clinic and your regular vet will accept the card.

• Plan a Budget

Consider setting up a savings account meant for any dog medical emergencies. You can create a new account and make a point of adding money every week or month.

If you put about $100 in the account every month when your dog is a puppy, by the time, they’re 2 years old, you might have saved up around $2,000. Only use this money for actual emergencies, rather than routine visits. This way, you’re saving money that could end up saving your dog’s life.

• Virtual Vet

If your dog isn’t exhibiting emergency symptoms but you feel as though you can’t wait for an appointment in a few days, you can try speaking to a virtual veterinarian. This could be done by phone or through video.

For example, if you suspect that your dog has an ear infection, this isn’t exactly an emergency (at least not in the early stages), and a virtual vet can prescribe you the appropriate medication. This can help save you money.

There’s also pet insurance.

• Does Pet Insurance Cover Emergency Clinic Visits?

It depends on the insurance company. Some will cover emergencies but not if your dog has a pre-existing condition (although this is usually if your dog already had a health condition before you started coverage).

Typically, you pay anywhere from $10 to $100, but the average tends to be $30 to $50 every month. Some policies might cover a large chunk of the bills, up to 90% for many, and they all cover unexpected costs (except for those pre-existing conditions). In most cases, you will pay the bill yourself and then send the bill and vet records to the insurance company, and they will reimburse you, so you’ll still need to have the money initially for the vet bill.

Just be sure to read everything and figure out which company and which plan will work best for you and your dog. How much you pay every month will also depend on the size, age, breed, and sex of your dog.

• See Also:  What Are the Vet Costs for Dog Eye Infection & Eye Surgery?

• How Can You Avoid Emergency Vet Visits?

It will help if you take your dog to your regular vet for wellness checkups annually. If you’re consistent with these visits, your vet can sometimes catch an encroaching health condition before it becomes an emergency. Also, some insurance companies will cover part of these annual visits.

You should also always plan ahead for any potential emergencies. If you’re unable to make it home because of bad weather (blizzards, icy roads, etc.), ensure that a trusted neighbor, family member, or friend has a key to your place so they can take care of your dog in your absence. If you lose power, take your dog with you if you go to a hotel.

However, it can sometimes prove difficult to prevent all emergencies for pets. Accidents happen — you can’t keep an eye on your dog every minute, and they can be fast! Plus, health conditions can occur even in the healthiest of animals.

As long as you feed your dog high-quality food, ensure that they have constant access to clean and fresh water, and visit the vet once a year, you’re taking good care of your pup. You should also give them plenty of love, exercise, and playtime.

While paying a chunk of money every month might not necessarily fit into your budget, it’s probably worth it in the long run. This way, if something disastrous does happen to your pup, you won’t be forced to decide between treatment that you can’t afford and keeping your dog for a few more years.

So many aspects of these scenarios do depend on your dog’s situation, so spend the time looking at the best pet insurance companies and trying out the free quotes. It just might be worth it.

Related dog reads:

• What to Give a Dog for an Upset Stomach — 10 Great Options
• Braces for Dogs — Effectiveness and Costs
• My Dog’s Stomach Is Hard, What Should I Do?
• https://emergencyvetsusa.com/average-cost-of-emergency-vet-visits/

Featured Image Credit: RossHelen, Shutterstock

About the Author

Kathryn Copeland

Kathryn was a librarian in a previous lifetime and is currently a writer about all things pets. When she was a kid, she hoped to work in a zoo or with wildlife in some way, thanks to her love for animals . Unfortunately, she's not strong in the sciences, so she fills her days with researching and writing about all kinds of animals and spends time playing with her adorable but terribly naughty tabby cat, Bella. Kathryn is hoping to add to her family in the near future – maybe another cat or two and a dog.

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How Much Does a Vet Visit Cost?

Average veterinary pricing by procedure.

When your dog, cat, or other pet needs to see the vet, there are a variety of factors that can impact the total price of your final bill. Below, we'll explore some of the common reasons your pet may need to see a veterinarian, as well as the average costs for routine checkups or specialty treatments and procedures.

When to Take Your Pet to the Vet

Your pet may need to see a vet for many different reasons, and how much it costs depends on the type of vet visit. Common reasons to take a pet to the vet include:

• • Routine checkups : Routine  veterinary exams  are similar to human physicals. They're meant to help keep your pet healthy by assessing their overall wellness, treat any ongoing conditions, and follow up on any concerns you may have.
• • Vaccinations : You may have to set up a series of appointments to make sure your pet gets the properly scheduled vaccination shots to help prevent conditions like rabies and Bordetella.
• • Illness : Maybe your pet isn't drinking much water, or they're throwing up. You'll want to take them in for a sick visit, where your vet will check their baseline health and may recommend running some tests to figure out what's going on.
• • Emergencies : There may be a time that you're pet needs immediate medical attention, which means an emergency vet visit. Emergency visits can mean the difference between life and death, and you can expect that the  cost of an emergency vet visit  will be higher due to specialized equipment and treatments. 1
• • Surgical/Specialty visits : You may need to see a specialist to set up surgical procedures like  spaying or neutering ,  dental extractions , fracture repairs,  foreign object removal , or  cancer -related surgery or  chemotherapy treatment .

National Average Cost for a Vet Visit

The national average cost for a routine vet visit is between $25-$186. 2  During a routine veterinary appointment, your vet will perform a physical exam to assess your pet's health. The vet will likely check for:

• • Vitals : heart rate, breathing, temperature, weight
• • Signs of infection : ears, eyes, nose, mouth
• • Parasites : coat and skin

Average vet visit cost by state*

* To see all the states click here .

Routine Veterinary Exam Costs by Procedure

A routine veterinary exam is a good time to discuss any concerns you may have about your pet's health and to get preventive treatment for common health issues.

Dog and Cat Vaccine Pricing Info

On average, vaccinations for dogs and cats will cost between $20-$60, and can help protect them from catching serious diseases, like rabies. 4

Vaccination cost for dogs

Here are the average costs of some common vaccinations your dog may need:

Vaccination cost for cats

Here are the average costs of some common vaccinations your cat may need:

Veterinary Tests and Diagnostic Costs

You'll want to set up a special appointment with your vet if you think your pet is sick ( or worse ). For example, the following are symptoms your pet may exhibit which could require further evaluation, tests, and diagnosis from your veterinarian: 6

• • Increased thirst
• • Changes in appetite
• • Increased urination
• • Lethargy or tiredness
• • Panting
• • Coughing or sneezing
• • Weight gain or loss
• • Body odor
• • Breathing rate
• • Whining
• • Coat or skin changes
• • Behavior changes

If your pet is exhibiting signs of an illness, your vet will likely want to run some tests to help determine what's going on. They may require things like blood tests, X-rays, or fecal exams. 3

Once your vet has the results, they will provide a course of treatment to address the cause of your pet's symptoms and hopefully help your fur baby feel better.

Below is the average cost of diagnosing and treating some common health problems your pet may experience.

Emergency Vet Care Costs

An emergency veterinarian visit is an unscheduled trip to the vet to get help for your pet in an urgent or critical situation. There are many reasons you might need to take a pet to see an emergency veterinarian, such as: 8

• • Trauma : Bite wounds, electrical shock or being hit by a car
• • Toxins : When you know you're pet has consumed foods or chemicals that are poisonous, like antifreeze, human medications, chocolate, insecticides, certain plants and other toxic substances a visit to the emergency vet may be needed.

The price of an emergency vet visit will depend on the situation, but you can anticipate that it will be  more expensive  than a routine visit due to specialized care and testing. Below are the costs for initial assessment, stabilization, and treatment.

Surgery and Specialty Treatment Costs

If your pet has an underlying condition, or something is discovered as a result of testing during a wellness check, your vet may recommend specialized treatment. The cost of these treatments ranges widely depending on the type of care needed and the type of animal.

We've outlined some common treatments and average associated costs below:

Average Vet Visit Cost by State (Continued)

The information, opinions and recommendations expressed in the article are for informational purposes only. Information has been obtained from sources generally believed to be reliable. However, because of the possibility of human or mechanical error by our sources, or any other, Synchrony and any of its affiliates, including CareCredit, (collectively, “Synchrony") does not provide any warranty as to the accuracy, adequacy, or completeness of any information for its intended purpose or any results obtained from the use of such information. The data presented in the article was current as of the time of writing. Please consult with your individual advisors with respect to any information presented.

© 2023 Synchrony Bank.

1  Lee, Justine. “When to Bring Your Pet to the ER Vet,"Animal Emergency and Referral Center. Accessed January 20, 2023. Retrieved from:  https://aercmn.com/when-to-bring-your-pet-to-the-er-vet/

2  Average Pet Wellness Check Study by State, Conducted by ASQ 360 °  on behalf of CareCredit, August 2023.

3  Plotts, Edwin. “How Much Does a Vet Visit Cost? Here's Everything You Need To Know," Pawlicy Advisor. Accessed January 20, 2023. Retrieved from:  https://www.pawlicy.com/blog/vet-visit-cost

4  “Veterinary Services & Pricing," Access Veterinary Care. Accessed January 20, 2023. Retrieved from:  https://www.myaccessvetcare.com/veterinary-services

5  Batiari, Lila. “Puppy Deworming Schedule: Everything You Need to Know," PawlicyAdvisor. Accessed January 20, 2023. Retrieved from:  https://www.pawlicy.com/blog/puppy-deworming-schedule/

6  “How to tell if your cat is sick: Signs and Symptoms," Hillcrest. Accessed January 20, 2023. Retrieved from:  https://www.hillcrestanimals.com/site/blog-memphis-vet/2020/03/12/how-to-tell-if-your-cat-is-sick

7  Drexler, Abby. “How to Tell if Your Dog is Sick: 11 Common Symptoms," American Kennel Club. January 24, 2022. Retrieved from:  https://www.akcpetinsurance.com/blog/5-common-signs-that-your-dog-is-sick

8  Croll, Maxime. “Average Cost of Pet Insurance: 2022 Facts and Figures," Value Penguin. March 1, 2022. Retrieved from:  https://www.valuepenguin.com/pet-insurance/average-cost-of-pet-insurance

10  “Pet Emergency Statistics and Veterinary Costs," Preventative Vet. Accessed January 20, 2023. Retrieved from:  https://www.preventivevet.com/pet-emergency-statistics

11  2023 Average Procedural Cost Study for Cosmetic, Dental and Veterinary Practices across the United States. ASQ360° Market Research, October 2023

12  “Cutting Pet Care Costs," ASPCA. Accessed July 7, 2022. Retrieved from:  https://www.aspca.org/pet-care/general-pet-care/cutting-pet-care-costs

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Pet Emergency Statistics and Veterinary Costs

Accidents happen – it's true, but they don't always have to. We're sharing the statistics and rough cost ranges of some of the more common pet emergencies below because, for many pet owners, costs are a large factor in the amount and type of care their pets are able to receive.

Prevention isn't always  possible, but it often is – and it's often as simple as having prior awareness and taking simple precautions. The goal of Preventive Vet is to help save cats' and dogs' lives, so have a look here and then browse around the rest of the site to find articles and resources that can help you keep your pets healthy, happy, and safe.

Pet Emergency Statistics

Vomiting and diarrhea.

Nationwide, vomiting and diarrhea are routinely among the top 10 reasons that pets are brought to the veterinarian for emergency evaluation and treatment.

These are in fact just the outward signs of any number of potential underlying problems – including irritation or obstruction of a pet's intestinal tract, ingestion of a poisonous substance, dysfunction of one or more internal organs, and a variety of others. Many of the most common causes of vomiting and diarrhea in pets can be easily prevented. 

There are no official statistics kept on the subject, but based on the frequency with which they are seen in emergency rooms across the country, it is safe to assume that there are tens, if not hundreds, of thousands of cats and dogs injured or killed in road traffic accidents each year in this country.

Equally as important are the accidents that unleashed dogs and outdoor cats cause each year, many of which result in significant injury or even death to people.

Life expectancy of cats

Several sources estimate that the life expectancy of an outdoor cat is only 2–5 years. By contrast, the life expectancy of an indoor-only cat is nearer 12–18 years (even up to 20 years!). Amongst other things, cats that go outdoors unobserved are at greater risk of eating or licking up something poisonous (e.g., antifreeze, lilies, rat and mouse poisons, and others), and they're at greater risk of getting into a fight with a dog, wildlife, or another cat, and they're at risk of being hit by a car. 

Antifreeze toxicity

The Humane Society Legislative Fund estimates that over 10,000 dogs and cats die each year from exposure to antifreeze containing ethylene glycol.

This harmful substance can be found in lower and less harmful concentrations in windshield de-icing fluids, motor oils, hydraulic brake fluid, paints, solvents, wood stains, etc. One lick (0.64 ml/lb) of this highly poisonous substance can be enough to cause irreversible kidney failure and death in a cat. Severe acute kidney failure can occur in dogs that consume 1 tablespoon.

Pet toxicities

The ASPCA's Animal Poison Control Center, the pioneer in pet poison control, has handled over 4 million cases since its beginnings in 1945. In 2021, there was a 22% increase in call volumes and they received over 401,550 calls related to pet exposures to toxic substances. Many of these calls were related to common household products that are likely present in your pet's environment right now.

In 2019 the ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center helped over 232,000 animals.

These were the top 10 pet toxins reported:

• Over-the-counter medications such as painkillers (ibuprofen, Tylenol®), joint rubs, and herbal supplements were 19.7 % of cases (about 45,704)
• Human prescriptions (heart, thyroid, ADHD, and antidepressant medications) were 17.2 % of cases (about 39,904)
• Food ( xylitol , grapes , raisins, onions , garlic, and protein bars) was 12.1% of cases (about 28,072)
• Chocolate was 10.1% of cases related to sweet treats. Per day, it averages greater than 67 cases
• Veterinary-related products accounted for 9.3% of cases (about 21,576)
• Household items were 7.7% of the cases (about 17,864)
• Rodenticides were 6.8 % of cases (about15,776). These cases increased in 2019 from prior years. 
• Plants were 6.1% of cases (about 14,152). These cases have moved up in order and often involve cats and lily exposure .
• Insecticides were 5.1% of cases (about 11,832). These cases have dropped due to the fact that there are safer alternatives and homeowners have better handling and safety protocols in place.
• Garden products (fertilizer, soil enhancements, herbicides, etc.) continue to remain on the top ten list at 2.4 % of the cases (about 5,568).

Pet Emergency Veterinary Costs

ER exam: ~ $100 – $200

IV catheter: ~ $60 – $75

IV fluids (per bag): ~ $60 – $95

Blood tests (basic): ~$80 – $200

Urine tests (basic): ~$40 – $70

X-ray (basic): ~$150 – $250

Ultrasound: ~ $300 – $600

Blood pressure measurement: ~ $25 – $75

Pain medication: ~ $40 – $80

Oxygen Therapy: ~ $500 – $3,000

Wound treatment and repair: ~ $800 – $2,500

Emergency surgery (bloat, foreign body, hit by care, caesarian): ~ $1,500 – $5,000

Hospitalization and monitoring:

1–2 days (vomiting, diarrhea, seizures cases): ~ $600 – 1,700

3–5 days (parvo, blocked cat, kidney failure): ~ $1,500 – $3,500

Accidents & Emergencies Happen

Pet accidents and other emergencies are common when their people are out of town. So whenever traveling without your pets, always make sure to leave them in the care and close supervision of a responsible person or company. And always be sure to fill out and leave behind a Treatment Authorization Form , so your pets can get the medical care they need in the event of an unforeseen problem when you can't be reached. When filling in the section of the form with the amount that you authorize the pet sitter or caregiver to approve in your absence, please take into account the rough minimal costs of some of the typical emergency evaluations and procedures as listed above, as well as the following common emergencies.

Approximate emergency veterinary treatment ranges

Vomiting, diarrhea, and gastrointestinal:.

Food bloat: $500 – $1,000+

Gastric Dilatation and Volvulus (GDV): $2,000 – $7,500+

Gastroenteritis: $750 – $3,000+

Intestinal obstruction with surgery: $3,000 – $4,000+

Pancreatitis: $2,000 – $5,000+

Toxin Ingestion:

Antifreeze: $2,000 – $6,000+

Chocolate: $250 – $2,000+

Grapes & Raisins: $2,000 – $5,000+

Human antidepressant medications: $1,500 – $2,500+

Human pain medications: $250 – $2,000+

Lilies (cats only): $1,000 – $4,000+

Rat and mouse poison: $750 – $4,000+

Slug bait: $1,500 – $4,000+

Xylitol: $750 – $4,000+

Cat bite abscess: $300 – $1,500+

Dog bite wounds: $1,000 – $10,000+

Electrical cord shock: $500 – $3,000+

Heatstroke: $1,500 – $6,000+

High-rise fall: $500 – $6,000+

Hit by car: $250 – $8,000+

Urinary Issues:

Urinary tract obstruction: $1,500 – $3,000+

Uterus & Birthing Issues:

Birthing difficulties (caesarian section): $1,500 – $3,500+

Uterine infection (pyometra): $1,000 – $3,000+

How Much Does a Vet Visit Cost? Here's Everything You Need To Know

When you’re ready to adopt a pet, you may not always be thinking about their future veterinary costs. But it’s important to consider vet fees when working out your budget for caring for your pet over the next several years.

Not only will your pet need food, grooming, toys, and other supplies, but they’ll need to go to the vet at least once per year. You may also need to pay for emergency services if your pet gets hurt or sick, and those can add additional strain to your budget.

But how much does it cost to go to the vet ? Unfortunately, the answer is: “it depends.” While most regular vet services can cost $100 or less, some procedures and treatments can cost thousands.

As a pet rescue and foster who works with a pet rescue nonprofit in Brooklyn, I've seen my fair share of veterinary bills - ranging from low-cost "mom-and-pop" practices to higher-end practices with state-of-the-art diagnostics and surgeons.

Here, I’ll break down what you can expect when taking your pet to the vet:

• The basic costs involved in a vet visit
• Standard veterinary expenses
• How pet type can influence the costs of a vet visit
• How breed can influence vet costs
• What to expect from a visit to the vet
• Potential fees associated with emergency vet visits
• How to cover veterinary costs without depleting your savings
• Key Takeaways
• Frequently Asked Questions

The Basic Cost of a Vet Visit

According to the American Veterinary Medical Association (AVMA), the price of veterinary services has been rising steadily since the turn of the millennium. In 2016, the Veterinary Services Price Index was outpacing the Consumer Price Index by more than 25 percentage points .

Pet ownership is increasing, and the costs of veterinary care are also on the rise.

Veterinary care is in much higher demand than it ever was, in part because pet owners are treating their pets differently. In one study, 95% of pet parents consider their pets a part of their family. People are spending more on their pets, and they’re more willing to bring them to the vet for regular checkups.

A Breakdown of Standard Veterinary Expenses

Vet expenses vary widely depending on what services your veterinarian is providing. Veterinary practices charge for services like physical exams, diagnostic services, lab work, surgical procedures, anesthesia, hospitalization, and even overnight boarding.

Many of these services can be covered by pet insurance , which would reimburse a percentage of your out of pocket expenditures after you pay your vet.

An appointment for surgery will cost much more than a wellness visit, and regular treatments, such as those for cancer, can add up to a considerable sum over time. Here are some of the most common veterinary services and how much they typically cost.

Tests, Examinations, and Initial Vet Costs:

• Routine checkups: $50 to $250
• Spay/neuter: $160 to $220
• Vaccines per shot: $15 to $28
• Physical exams: $45 to $55
• Fecal exam: $25 to $45
• Heartworm test: $45 to $50
• Dental cleaning : $70 to $400
• Allergy testing: $195 to $300
• Geriatric screening: $85 to $110

Surgeries and Unexpected Vet Costs*:

• Bloodwork: $80 to $200
• X-rays : $150 to $250
• Ultrasounds: $300 to $600
• Short hospitalizations: $600 to $1,700
• Long hospitalizations: $1,500 to $3,500
• Wound treatment: $800 to $2,500
• Emergency surgery: $1,500 to $5000
• Oxygen therapy: $500 to $3000

(*Based on estimates by Emergency Vets USA )

Again, these prices may vary depending on where you live, what type of animal you have, what breed you have, and their health history. Even a routine exam fee can vary state-by-state. According to the ASPCA , recurring medical expenses for a dog can range from $210 to $260 depending on their size.

The good news is that you can lower the costs of these services significantly with pet insurance . For example, if you have a pet insurance plan that reimburses you for 90% of covered costs, that $5,000 emergency surgery could end up costing you just $500 out of pocket.

Pet insurance lowers out-of-pocket vet costs.

Plans can reimburse 60-100% of eligible expenses.

Average Vet Costs for the First Year of Owning a Dog or Cat

The APSCA estimates that the first year of owning a dog can cost as much as $2,000 or more , depending on the size of the animal. Meanwhile, the cost of owning a cat can cost up to $1,174 on average.

However, these costs are assuming you’ll only need to bring your pet in for regular visits and won’t have any unexpected charges on your vet bill. If a regular visit costs about $250 and you bring a new dog to the vet only once, the rest of your spending can go to supplies like food, toys, and treats.

If your pet needs some of the unexpected services listed above because they develop an illness or need additional tests, you could end up paying substantially more out of pocket if you don’t have pet insurance.

How Pet Type Can Influence the Costs of a Vet Visit

It’s difficult to nail down the costs of vet care because veterinary medicine differs depending on the type of pet you own. Caring for a smaller animal like a cat or rabbit is generally much less expensive than caring for a large or medium-sized dog — or a horse, for that matter.

Today’s pets are also living longer than ever thanks to advances in medical care and better pet diets. If you have an older pet , you can expect to have higher veterinary costs because pets tend to need more care as they age. Older pets should get regular veterinary examinations so your vet can check for problems.

AVMA notes that “while it’s easy to spot the outward signs of aging such as graying haircoat and slower pace, it’s important to remember a pet’s organ systems are also changing. An older pet is more likely to develop diseases such as heart, kidney and liver disease, cancer, or arthritis. Dogs get cancer at roughly the same rate as humans, while cats have a somewhat lower rate.”

Other factors that can influence veterinary costs are your pet’s weight, health history, and temperament . For example, if your dog is overly aggressive when you bring them to the vet, you may need to give them medication to keep them calm and muzzle them. In some cases, the vet may need to sedate your pet so they can examine them, which can add to your costs.

How Breed Affects Veterinary Costs

The breed of your pet also impacts veterinary costs. When discussing breed, we’re generally discussing dogs.

There are over 190 recognized dog breeds in the United States and only 42 cat breeds. This is partially due to the history of dog breeding and how dogs were used as herders, hunters, and other types of working animals in the past. Still, some cat breeds do have fewer health issues than others.

Many pet insurance plans cover breed-specific issues. If you have a pet breed that tends to have certain conditions, investing in pet insurance could help significantly if those conditions arise.

Some common breed-specific conditions include the following:

• Bladder stones
• Brachiocephalic syndrome (due to narrow nasal passage)
• Ear infections
• Hip dysplasia
• Knee and elbow dislocations
• Slipped discs

If you’re unsure about your pet’s breed-specific conditions, ask your veterinarian about what you can expect.

What to Expect From a Visit to the Vet

A typical visit to the veterinarian can cost as little as $50 depending on the pet being examined and their needs. But, as we mentioned before, those costs can go up if your pet has an unexpected illness or if they need other types of routine care.

Your First Visit

On your pet’s first visit, your veterinarian will conduct a general health screening and wellness exam. They’ll enter your pet’s information into their records. You can expect them to do the following:

• Weigh your pet
• Listen to their heart and lungs
• Take their temperature
• Check their ears, eyes, and genitalia
• Examine their teeth and mouth
• Examine their feces (you may need to bring a sample)
• Give your pet vaccinations (if necessary)
• Test for common diseases (if necessary)
• Determine your pet’s vaccination schedule

The Wellness Exam

Similar to an initial health screening, a wellness exam determines the overall health of your pet. Your regular veterinarian will do a physical examination of your pet, but they’ll also ask you questions about your pet’s behavior, diet, and lifestyle patterns.

A basic vet visit might cost $50, but expenses quickly add up with illnesses and injuries.

For example, it’s normal for dogs to curl up and sleep throughout the day, but if your dog is acting particularly lethargic, this could be a symptom of an underlying condition. Your vet would need to know about this behavior.

Similarly, even the healthiest cats will vomit from time to time . But if they are vomiting often — more than once or twice per week — it could indicate a health condition. This is why it’s important to be completely open about your pet’s behavior with your vet .

Once your veterinarian has assessed the wellness of your pet, they’ll discuss preventative steps you can take to avoid problems. They may recommend you use preventive treatments for fleas, ticks, intestinal parasites, and heartworm. They’ll go over your pet’s nutrition needs, weight management, what pet food you should use, dental care, and more.

Scheduling Routine Check-Ups

Most veterinarians recommend you bring your pet to them at least once per year, but preferably more. Unfortunately, some pet parents bring their pets to the vet less often.

According to a study by the AVMA , about 8% of pet parents don’t bring their pets in for routine checkups once per year. Still, 51% bring them in once per year and the remaining 41% bring them even more often.

Over 50% of pet owners took their pet to the vet for a routine checkup at least one time in the previous year.

A routine check-up will typically involve a physical examination, a wellness check, and vaccine booster shots, if necessary. If you want to be reimbursed for this kind of routine care, you'll need a wellness plan .

Unexpected Veterinary Costs

If your veterinarian discovers anything out of the ordinary during your pet’s first visit or a subsequent wellness exam, they may wish to do additional tests to determine what’s wrong with your pet.

Generally, veterinarians will only do additional testing if they need to narrow down the possibilities of your pet’s condition to make an accurate diagnosis. Don’t hesitate to ask about the costs of testing beforehand . Once your veterinarian is confident in their diagnosis, they’ll discuss plans for treatment with you.

If your pet is sick or injured, you’ll have to pay some unexpected veterinary costs. This is where pet insurance is essential . Depending on the severity of your pet’s condition, you could have to pay thousands of dollars out of pocket to treat your pet.

If your pet needs life-saving care, they may be admitted to an animal hospital overnight. You’ll need to pay for the boarding of your pet, for any tests conducted to determine what’s wrong, as well as for treatment to make your pet better.

Pet insurance coverage means you only have to pay for a fraction of what you’d normally owe in vet bills.

Health Issues & Vet Costs to be Aware of

• Dog Teeth Cleaning
• Kennel Cough
• Heartworm Disease
• Lyme Disease
• Leptospirosis
• Dog X-Ray Costs

Potential Fees Associated with Emergency Vet Visits

An emergency visit occurs when your pet needs immediate or life-saving care and they can’t wait until regular business hours for an appointment. Thankfully, many veterinary clinics and animal hospitals provide out-of-hours veterinary care for emergencies. If you’re a new pet owner, you should identify your nearest emergency clinic just in case.

If your pet has an emergency, contact your veterinary emergency services provider immediately and speak to the person on-duty. They’ll give you advice over the phone, or they’ll suggest you bring your pet in for treatment.

After your pet is examined, the emergency care vet will discuss whether they need to do additional tests or whether you can move on to treatment. It’s at this point that your costs will begin to go up.

Emergency veterinary fees are typically higher than fees associated with regular care. According to Preventive Vet , a typical emergency visit may involve the following fees:

• ER exam: $75 - $125
• IV catheter: $60 - $75
• IV fluids : $50 - $75
• Blood tests (basic): $75 - $150
• Urine tests (basic): $25 - $50
• X-rays (basic): $75 - $250
• Blood pressure measurement: $25 - $75
• Pain medication: $40 - $80
• Hospitalization / Vet Tech Monitoring: $50 - $200

TOTAL: $475 - $1,080

This is not including any additional costs for treatment, which is dependent on your pet’s condition. This is why the costs of emergency veterinary care vary so much. It’s also the reason financing options and pet insurance are so important during emergencies.

How To Cover Veterinary Costs Without Depleting Your Savings

Clearly, comparing pet insurance options is a must. With a comprehensive pet insurance plan, you won’t have to worry about choosing between your pet’s emergency care and breaking your bank. Good coverage ensures you can get them the care they need right when they need it and gain peace of mind in knowing your prepared for an emergency ( even for rescue pets ).

However, pet health insurance works differently than human health insurance . Most pet insurance providers pay you, the policy holder, instead of the practice or doctor. That means you don't have to worry about find a veterinarian who's "in-network", you can go to any vet you please and get reimbursed just the same - but that also means that you will generally have to pay the cost upfront while you wait for your reimbursement.

Ideally, you should pay for the upfront vet cost on a credit card with a good rewards incentive. For example, if your credit card offer 3% cash back on purchases, by using that card to pay the initial bill you'll be effectively reducing the cost by 3%. Then, in just a few days your pet insurance provider will reimburse you for the bill and you can pay off that credit charge with the reimbursement.

For example, let's pretend you have a policy with 90% reimbursement and a $250 deductible...

Your vet bill is $1237, you put it on your credit card which give 3% cash back. Your plan reimbursed you for 90% of the cost after the deductible is met. In this case, let's say it's the first vet cost of the year so your $250 deductible is not yet met. Eight days after paying your vet bill your pet insurance provider reimburses you $888.30 (or ($1237 - $250)*0.9).

Your total cost would then be: $1237 - $888.30 - (3% back on $1237) = $311.59

That's a massive savings. And, if another issue arises your deductible is already paid for that year so you'll simply be reimbursed 90% (or what ever your policy indicates) on your next bill.

For example, vet bill #1 cost $1237 but it only cost you $311, then vet bill #2 comes in for $600 but it only costs you $42! Since your deductible was paid for in vet bill #1, you'll be reimbursed 90% of the full vet bill #2 plus 3% back on the initial bill (if you used a credit card with that reward rate)... $600 - 90% (or $540) - 3% (or $18) = $42.

This way, your bank account goes untouched and your savings are maximized.

Just make sure you get the right pet insurance policy at the best price, no matter the provider .

Do you want to find the best pet insurance?

Let's analyze your pet's breed, age, and location to find the right coverage and the best savings. Ready?

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.css-3sl4ml{color:#E26C33;-webkit-text-decoration:none;text-decoration:none;}.css-3sl4ml:hover{color:#E26C33;-webkit-text-decoration:underline;text-decoration:underline;} Edwin Plotts .css-aqd080{font-size:16px;font-weight:bold;}@media screen and (min-width: 992px){.css-aqd080{font-size:21px;}} Director of Marketing & Foster/Rescue Parent - Pawlicy Advisor

Edwin Plotts rescues and rehomes cats in Savannah, GA - while leading Pawlicy Advisor 's brand growth. He's a pet parent of two rescued sibling cats: Greyson and Babs. He's also an avid volunteer with Flatbush Cats and The Toby Project.

More on Veterinary Costs

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How Much Does The Vet Cost?

How much does the vet cost? This depends on a few factors. Read this handy guide to discover how much vet services will cost you.

Aly Walansky

Updated December 30, 2022 • Published July 03, 2020

It's no secret that a trip to the vet can be expensive. It can be difficult to predict how much a vet visit will cost—and sometimes—it’s shocking when you see the bill. The sad reality is that many pet parents avoid vet visits for their pets because of the high cost of medical treatment.  

People love their pets; they’re often regarded as family members and are treated as such. But unexpected vet expenses and fees happen, and it's impossible to begin to plan for them if you don’t have any idea what you're getting into.

It's important to first understand how much owning a dog or cat actually costs . In addition to expenses related to food and training, both regular and unexpected vet bills should be factored into the total cost of being a pet parent.

It can be difficult, though, because vet-related expenses range widely and are dependent on a variety of factors—demand, where you live, and even what type of pet you have—to name a new.

Nevertheless, having a ballpark estimate of how much the vet will cost you can be valuable when you're trying to budget for your pet's health.

The basics of vet prices

According to Rover, 81% of pet parents spend up to $500 on vet visits in the first year of having a puppy. Whether you have a puppy, adult dog, kitten, or cat, it's your responsibility to ensure that your pet has access to the care they need.

It’s easy to get intimidated when it comes to calculating how much the vet and their services will cost. Read on to learn more about the average cost of a wellness exam, sick pet visit, and emergency visit, and the different factors that can contribute to costs.

The average cost of vet visits

These estimates offer a general average for common vet visits for dogs. Cat and kitten costs tend to be similar, so pet parents with feline friends can look at the lower end of the bracket. 

Initial vet exam and vaccinations : $320-480

Flea and tick prevention: $50-200

Heartworm prevention: $24-120

Spay or neuter surgery: $320-800

Annual exam: $70-100

Dental cleaning: $400-550

Microchip: $80

To get a more accurate price for vet services, you can reach out to your vet before you come in for a visit. These r egular veterinarian visits are essential to keeping your pet happy and healthy and help provide your vet with a baseline for your pet. In the event that your dog or cat has a more complex medical issue, they’ll be able to start monitoring it as soon as it begins.

The reality is, pets can be good at hiding the fact that they're sick. Having regular veterinarian appointments will help ensure that nothing goes unnoticed.

The average cost of emergency vet visits

These estimates offer a general average for common emergency care needs for cats and dogs.

These are the average costs of emergency vet visits in the U.S:

General consultation/exam: $100-$150

General bloodwork: $80-200

X-rays: $150-$250

Ultrasound: $300-$600

1-2 day hospitalization: $600-$1,700

3-5 day hospitalization: $1,500-$3,500

Wound treatment and repair: $800-$1,500

Emergency surgery: $800-$2,500

Oxygen therapy: $500

According to a report by Money.com , the average cost of an emergency vet visit is between $800-$1,500, but costs can exceed $5,000 for more complex procedures. That’s a pretty big range!

Given that 40% of Americans don’t have $400 in emergency funds , these unexpected costs can be devastating. This is why some pet parents choose not to bring their animal to the emergency vet. Unfortunately, this can sometimes be fatal for a pet that needed urgent medical attention and wasn’t able to get it.

As much as we wish they could, pets are not able to tell us how they feel—they can only vocalize through barking and crying. That's why it can be tricky to figure out when you should bring your dog or cat to an emergency vet, especially knowing the bill can be massive. 

At Pawp, you can reach out to online veterinarians 24/7. The cost is a flat monthly rate, and you will never need to wait in line or make an appointment. Pawp's VetPros will be able to advise if an emergency vet visit is necessary or if your pet can be monitored at home.

Factors that determine how much the vet costs

Many factors play a role in determining the cost of a veterinary visit. To start, the treatment your pet needs will largely influence the cost. A major surgery performed under emergency conditions will cost more than a routine visit for preventative care. But, there's still a lot more to it.

Let’s take the cost of puppy vaccines, for example. There are core (mandatory) vaccines, like Rabies and DA2PP (distemper combination), and non-core vaccines like Bordetella (kennel cough), leptospirosis, and Lyme, which only some pet parents will pursue for their dogs.

Although core vaccines are required for all puppies, many optional vaccines will be recommended by vets based on a pup’s lifestyle and exposure risk. The added cost of maintaining this extra immunity is minuscule if you consider the cost of treating the illnesses these vaccines are meant to protect against.

If you’re planning to board your dog, for example, you would most certainly want to keep him or her protected against kennel cough. So yes, there’s an added expense for that shot, but it’s small in the grand scheme of things. Preventative measures can be extremely helpful in ensuring that you do not rack up a gigantic vet bill later. 

Your pet's age, size, and breed affect vet costs

Different breeds, sizes, and ages of dogs will have different health concerns and needs.

Costs will also depend on any underlying medical conditions the pet has and how often the pet parent seeks preventative routine care. Some only take their pet to the vet when they’re not feeling well—this is what professionals call "fire engine medicine". This reactive approach to pet health can get quite expensive. It’s always better to prevent problems than treat them after the fact.

Where you live also affects how much the vet costs

The costs of running a veterinary practice in San Francisco or New York City are going to be much higher than those in more rural areas.

Rent, salaries, property taxes, property insurance, and other expenses will all be higher in certain locations, and those costs have to be passed on to clients if the veterinary practice is to remain in business.

The type of vet you visit will affect vet costs

Specialty practices tend to be more expensive than general practices. More advanced (and often more expensive) procedures are available, but specialty practices also can’t use the profits earned from routine care to partially offset the costs of expensive equipment, medications, etc.

How to get the best vet prices and save money

Any veterinary practice should be able to provide you with an estimate for a basic office visit that includes a physical examination. Feel free to call around and compare a few different options. Much like choosing a pediatrician or family doctor, choosing a vet is as deeply personal as it is important. They are caring for your family!

Once you find a vet you like, after performing a physical exam, a veterinarian will have a better idea of what else might need to be done and can provide you with options. Often, there will be several ways to approach a pet’s care at different price points, and the doctor can explain the pros and cons of each treatment to you.

Build a budget

To ensure that you can provide your pets with the veterinary care they need, we recommend routinely setting money aside in a dedicated savings account. Pawp also offers a $3,000 safety net for an approved emergency vet bill.

Talk to a vet online

Over 60% of your pet’s issues can be solved from home, and Pawp provides pet telehealth visits whenever you need them. Our VetPros are available around the clock , so whenever you need guidance, don’t hesitate to reach out.

This can help pet parents avoid unnecessary vet visits and their accompanying expenses. If you're ever unsure if your pet is having an emergency, speak with a vet to get immediate advice on what the best next step should be.

Talk to a vet now — it's free!

Text, call, or video chat with a vet within minutes.

How Much Does a Vet Visit Cost? (2024)

The average cost of a routine vet checkup can range from $50 to $250, but the total cost varies based on the purpose of the visit..

7+ years writing insurance and personal finance content

Contributor to top media, including USA Today

A passionate personal finance advocate, Sarah’s writing has graced the pages of many of the personal finance and insurance industries’ top web publications.

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4+ years in content creation and marketing

As Insurify’s home and pet insurance editor, Danny also specializes in auto insurance. His goal is to help consumers navigate the complex world of insurance buying.

Updated November 6, 2023 | Reading time: 4 minutes

At Insurify, our goal is to help customers compare insurance products and find the best policy for them. We strive to provide open, honest, and unbiased information about the insurance products and services we review. Our hard-working team of data analysts, insurance experts, insurance agents, editors and writers, has put in thousands of hours of research to create the content found on our site.

We do receive compensation when a sale or referral occurs from many of the insurance providers and marketing partners on our site. That may impact which products we display and where they appear on our site. But it does not influence our meticulously researched editorial content, what we write about, or any reviews or recommendations we may make. We do not guarantee favorable reviews or any coverage at all in exchange for compensation.

Table of contents

• Cost of a vet visit
• Common procedures
• Vaccinations for dogs
• Vaccinations for cats
• Emergency vet visits
• Coverage options
• Buying insurance

Table of contents Compare quotes

When you take your pet to the vet, the final bill might come as a surprise. While the cost of a vet visit varies based on the procedures and services your pet needs, veterinary care costs have increased sharply in recent years. [1]

A big reason for the higher costs is that demand for veterinary care is at an all-time high. Additionally, the costs of running a veterinary practice have risen, partially due to inflationary pressures. [1] In short, pet owners are facing a perfect storm with spiking vet bills as the end result.

Here’s what you should know about the costs you should expect to encounter if your pet needs to go to the veterinarian.

How much does a routine vet visit cost?

In general, dog owners face higher veterinary bills than cat owners. On average, the ASPCA estimates that dog owners pay $225 per year for routine medical costs, which include things like vaccines and wellness visits. In contrast, cat owners pay around $160 for routine medical care. [2]

As a pet owner, where you live can also affect your costs. For example, the estimated cost of an office visit at Banfield Pet Hospital is $78.95 in California, but that estimate drops to $57.95 in Florida. [3]

Costs of common veterinary procedures

Taking your pet to the vet for preventative care can help ensure it avoids health issues for years to come. But preventative care isn’t free. If you choose to invest in your pet’s health, you’ll likely face some or all of the following routine care costs. [4]

Cost of vaccinations for dogs

Vaccinations can help your pet stay healthy. In many cases, your vet will administer your dog’s vaccines during routine vet visits. The type and number of vaccines your dog needs can have a major effect on your final bill. 

The table below highlights some common vaccinations your dog might receive and their costs. [4]

Cost of vaccinations for cats

Cat owners can help keep their companions healthy through vaccinations. Keeping your pet’s shots up to date often happens at the annual visit. The following table shows some common vaccinations your cat might need and the associated costs.

How much do emergency vet visits cost?

Regular checkups and routine care can help you protect your pet’s health. But even pets with the best care could end up in the emergency room. An emergency vet visit is often significantly more expensive than a routine visit. The exact costs of your emergency room visit will vary based on the treatments your pet needs. [4]

Below is a quick look at some potential medical costs for an emergency visit:

An ER exam could cost between $100 and $200.

A broken bone could cost $2,371 for dogs and $2,257 for cats.

A foreign object in your pet’s stomach could require veterinary care that runs $3,262 for dogs and $2,955 for cats.

Blood tests during an emergency vet visit could cost between $80 and $200.

An ultrasound at the vet could run between $300 and $600.

X-rays at the vet could cost between $150 and $250. [5]

If you have to head to the vet for emergency care, be prepared for a hefty vet bill.

How does pet insurance affect vet costs?

Pet insurance can help you cover the costs of a vet visit. Most pet insurance companies offer three basic types of coverage:

Accident and illness coverage: Accident and illness coverage can help you pay for things like broken bones and infections. This type of coverage typically doesn’t include medical expenses for hereditary conditions or routine care.

Accident-only coverage: Accident-only coverage is a more narrow form of insurance. It can help you pay for vet visits related to broken bones, cuts, bite wounds, and foreign body ingestion. But it won’t help pay for treating an illness, dental care, or basic vaccines.

Wellness coverage : In general, a wellness plan can help you pay for vaccines, preventative medicine, a physical exam, and additional costs for routine care.

If you choose to purchase pet insurance, your insurance company will likely have a reimbursement policy. You’ll typically submit a claim for your vet bill after your vet visit, and if the company approves the claim, you’ll receive the agreed-upon percentage of the vet bill.

Pet insurance can be a good idea for the right household, but it’s important to run the numbers before deciding to move forward.

Factors to consider when buying pet insurance

If you’re interested in purchasing pet insurance, it’s important to consider all the details before signing up for a policy. Below are some factors to keep in mind:

Shopping around

Every insurance company has a slightly different method of determining premiums. Because of that, shopping around can help you find the best policy .

Reimbursements

Most pet insurance companies cover your vet bills through a reimbursement policy. You’ll need to pay the bill up front. When you submit a claim, you’ll receive a reimbursement for an agreed-upon percentage of the bill.

Payout limits

Some pet insurance policies have annual or lifetime payout limits.

Deductibles

The deductible is the minimum amount you’ll need to pay for a covered vet visit. Make sure it’s a number you can comfortably afford.

Coverage type

The type of coverage you purchase will greatly affect what kind of vet bills your policy will cover. Read the fine print to understand what’s covered.

Puppies are often cheaper to insure than older pets. However, older pets are more likely to need vet care due to age-related health problems. Weigh the policy costs against the potential veterinary costs.

Vet cost FAQs

Vet costs can be a significant expense for pet owners across the country. With rising costs, it’s natural to have questions. The answers below may help as you decide whether to enroll your pet in a pet insurance plan.

On average, pet owners can expect to pay between $50 and $250 for a routine visit. However, the final bill will vary based on the type of care your pet needs.

Why do vets charge so much?

The cost of veterinary care has risen sharply in the last five years. A core reason for higher costs is that veterinary practices are facing inflationary pressure, which means they must charge more for their services. Additionally, the demand for pet care is high, which also pushes costs higher.

Do vet offices offer payment plans?

Some vets offer payment plans to pet owners. If you need a payment plan option, ask your vet to see what’s available.

Is pet insurance worth it?

If you don’t have a robust emergency fund to cover unexpected veterinary care, pet insurance might be worth the price. But even households with savings might benefit from a pet insurance plan. You should consider your pet’s health and your financial situation to determine if the premiums are worth the coverage.

• National Library of Medicine . " Blame the pandemic: Why you need to raise your fees for 2021 ."
• American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals . " Cutting Pet Care Costs ."
• Banfield Pet Hospital . " Price Estimator ."
• Care Credit . " Average Vet Visit Costs for Pets ."
• Preventive Vet . " Pet Emergency Statistics and Veterinary Costs ."

Sarah Sharkey is a personal finance writer who enjoys helping people make savvy financial decisions. She covered insurance and personal finance topics. You can find her work on Business Insider, Money Under 30, Rocket Mortgage, Bankrate, and more. Connect with her on LinkedIn .

We have temporarily suspended our veterinary care grant program. Please visit our Resources page for more help.

Keeping families together

Compassion Animal Project is a nationwide nonprofit that provides financial assistance for life-saving treatments for pets.

FINANCIAL ASSISTANCE FOR FAMILIES WHOSE PETS NEED IT MOST.

Imagine a world where finances are never a determining factor in our pets’ health and survival.

Our pets are an integral part of our family. When a family member needs emergency, critical care, or specialized veterinary care, a family shouldn't have to question whether they can afford it.

No more unnecessary goodbyes

Too often, a pet’s parent feels they have no option other than to euthanize their pet because of their financial circumstances. Left to grieve an insurmountable loss, they often experience shame for their decision and inability to afford treatment. Compassion Animal Project unleashes hope for families when they need it most.

Our work saves lives

A deep compassion for families and a love for all animals is why we do this. Your help is how we do it. When approved, recipients are eligible to receive grants that cover up to 80% of treatment costs. 

Saving pets' lives

Lessening the financial burden on families, reducing compassion fatigue for veterinary staff, distributing pet food in communities through pop-up pantries.

 How it works 

Success stories.

Hear from some of our furry friends (well, their parents) and their experience with Compassion Animal Project.

Ending economic euthanasia

Each year, half a million pet owners and their veterinarians face the gut-wrenching decision of economic euthanasia for a beloved companion due to the high cost of life-saving procedures.

Become a partner

To Keep Families Together , Compassion Animal Project partners with top veterinary hospital groups and independently-owned referral centers. Our partners include Ethos Veterinary Health, PetVet Care Centers, Thrive Pet Healthcare, United Veterinary Care, and independently-owned referral centers.

Get your fix of cute pets and stay up-to-date with CAP.

Follow us on Instagram.

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What Is the Typical Cost of a Vet Visit?

What should you expect at a vet visit, annual checkup, diagnostic testing, ear or eye issues, emergencies, spaying or neutering, vaccinations, does pet insurance cover vet visits, is the cost of vet visit worth it, faqs about vet visit costs, how much does a vet visit cost (2024 guide).

Written by Brenda Woods Updated 04/03/2024

Brenda Woods is an accomplished writer and managing editor with more than two decades of publishing experience. She has spent over 10 years covering home services and home improvement projects. Brenda supports her team in evaluating dozens of home service providers, surveying and speaking to hom…

Pets need health care, and not just when they’re sick. Regular vet visits are essential to keeping your pet healthy and should be factored into your budget just like food and toys. How regularly you need to take your pet to the vet depends on its age, breed, and health, but most vets recommend at least once per year. 

So how much will vet visits cost you? It depends on the reason for the visit. We looked at common vet bills from some of the best pet insurance companies to see how much different types of vet visits typically cost. See what you can expect to pay below.

The average cost of a vet visit is $50–$200, but certain tests and treatments will increase the price. It also depends on the level of care you choose, such as whether you opt to have anesthesia administered for procedures or take your pet to multiple specialists. A basic vet visit involving a brief, noninvasive assessment of your pet will cost closer to $50. A more thorough evaluation will cost more.

A vet visit is any instance in which you take your pet in to see a veterinarian. This could be for routine reasons or more dire circumstances, but there are some things most vets will do at almost every appointment:

• Administer flea, tick, heartworm, and other parasite prevention if needed
• Assess weight
• Check lymph nodes and throat
• Evaluate teeth
• Examine the eyes for redness
• Listen to the heart and lungs
• Look into the ears and nose for abnormalities
• Palpate the abdomen to check for masses or pain
• Take pulse and temperature 

This evaluation will give your vet a good indication of your pet’s physical health. You’ll likely be asked questions about your pet’s behavior and have the chance to ask your own questions and share concerns. If you’ve come to the vet for a specific issue, your vet will make evaluations and administer treatment based on that condition.

What Are Reasons for Going to the Vet?

There are many reasons to take your pet to see a veterinarian. Here are some of the most common.

Vets recommend a yearly exam—twice yearly for senior pets—to make sure your pet’s health is on track and administer any preventive care your pet may need. A full physical can run anywhere from $100–$300 for dogs and $90–$200 for cats, depending on its age, breed, and location. The more testing your pet requires, the higher the price will be. 

Pets experience allergies, too. Coughing, excessive licking, scratching, and sneezing are all signs your pet is dealing with allergies. A vet will likely conduct a skin test to determine what kind of allergy your pet has and make a treatment plan. This type of visit will likely cost $200–$250, or $200–$300 if a blood test is needed.

Diagnostic testing is necessary when you don’t know what’s going on with your pet. This can include blood work, MRIs, ultrasounds, urine tests, and X-rays. You should ask your vet in advance how much these tests will cost, but here are the average ranges:

• Blood work: $200–$300 
• MRI: $1,500–$2,500
• Ultrasound: $300–$600
• Urine test: $25–$100
• X-ray: $75–$400, depending on the complexity

Eye and ear infections are common in pets. It could be due to bacteria, mites, yeast, or an unnoticed injury. A vet will examine the area, determine the cause, and recommend treatment, which may include a prescription. As long as the issue doesn’t point to a more serious health condition, this visit will typically cost $120–$150.

An emergency is the worst reason to have to see a vet. Thankfully, there are 24/7 emergency vet clinics and animal hospitals you can take your pet to if it experiences a serious injury or shows signs of illness. Just like with humans, going to an emergency clinic costs more. Here are the most common expenses:

• ER exam: $75–$200
• Overnight hospitalization: $600–$1,700
• Multi-night hospitalization: $1,500–$3,500

Spaying and neutering costs vary depending on the kind of veterinary care you want for your pet. Anesthesia, IV fluids, pain medication, and other add-ons will increase the price. Spaying also costs more than neutering because the procedure is more complex. Standard clinics charge $200–$400 for dogs and $50–$4,200 for cats. 

Vaccinations are an important part of your pet’s health care. Core vaccinations should be administered in your pet’s first year of life based on the schedule your vet outlines. Your pet may need boosters as it ages. 

Here are common vaccines and their costs:

• Bordetella: $19–$50/dose
• DAPP or DHPP: $25–$50/dose
• Feline leukemia: $25–$50/dose 
• FVRCP: $25–$50/dose
• Influenza: $30–$50/dose
• Leptospirosis: $30–$50/dose
• Lyme disease : $30–$50/dose
• Rabies: $15–$50/dose

What Factors Affect the Cost of Vet Visits?

How much vet visits cost can vary depending on a few factors. Here are some of the most common.

Pet insurance can greatly offset veterinary costs and will cover most visits. Though routine checkups are rarely covered in basic accident-and-illness plans, diagnostic testing, emergency care, hospitalization, prescription medications, surgeries, and more are. Many providers offer wellness plans to cover preventive pet care, such as annual visits, for an extra monthly fee.

If you have a pet insurance plan, you’ll pay for your pet’s vet visit at checkout, then file a claim for that amount and get reimbursed by your provider within a couple of weeks. Most providers reimburse at least 70% of the vet bill, and some will reimburse as much as 100%.

We recommend pet insurance providers such as Lemonade , Spot , and Healthy Paws for their coverage and customer service.

If your pet needs care, the most important thing is to get to a vet as soon as possible. Being faced with a bill of $300 or more can be daunting, but visiting a vet clinic in a less metropolitan area can reduce the cost. We recommend that pet parents enroll their pet in a health insurance plan to prevent paying for vet bills out of pocket.

See our list of cheapest pet insurance companies for affordable options.

How much do most vet visits cost?

Routine vet visits typically cost $50–$300, depending on the evaluations and treatments performed. Emergency vet visits can run as high as a few thousand dollars. 

Why does the vet charge so much?

Vet prices are high for various reasons. Vets set their rates based on their medical education and credentials, how complex the exam or procedure they’re performing is, your location, the use of expensive equipment, and other variables that warrant or require high fees. 

How often should a dog go to the vet?

Healthy adult dogs should see a vet once per year for a routine wellness exam. Senior dogs should see a vet twice per year. 

What are the most common vet visits?

Pet owners most commonly take their pets to the vet for routine care such as annual checkups, dental cleaning, vaccinations, and other preventive care. Other common reasons to take your pet to the vet are allergy testing, ear or eye infections, or illness or injury. 

Shop to Support

Financial Assistance for Emergency Vet Care

There is no doubt that family pets are cherished members of the household. Just look at statistics from the American Pet Products Association (APPA), and you'll readily see that our four-legged BFFs might just command as much attention in devotion and dollars as their two-legged brothers and sisters. Every two years, the APPA conducts The Pet Owners' Survey, resulting in a comprehensive report on trends, with dollars-and-cents numbers, amplifying consumer-spending habits for domestic animals. In 2020, pet owners lavished a total of $103.6 billion (yes, with a B) on everything from treats to treatments, of which $31.4 billion went to veterinary expenses, including pharmaceuticals. (That number is projected to creep up to $32.3 billion this year.) The APPA notes that routine veterinary visits for dogs averaged $212 and surgical visits averaged $426; for felines, these veterinary costs were, respectively, $160 and $214 on average.

If those were the only medical bills for care that pet owners incurred, they'd seem like bargains. Alas, seasoned pet guardians know that problems (and worse, emergencies) arise and that even routine medical care can result in bills for hundreds, if not thousands, of dollars. (Moreover, 29% of U.S. households are multipet homes, so those numbers are then multiplied.) If you find yourself in just such a situation and need emergency vet bill assistance, please know that Waggle offers a safety net .

Dealing With Unexpected Emergency Vet Bills

Sudden, unanticipated expenses often leave pet guardians, particularly those in low- and fixed-income households , wondering how to afford medical care for dogs and cats when there are few financial resources, no rainy-day fund and no pet insurance plan to cover all or part of the cost of vet care. And what of cancer treatment or critical care for chronic conditions that require ongoing treatments? Lacking a helping hand to pay for emergency veterinary services, owners may tearfully face what veterinarians refer to as owner-requested euthanasia or economic euthanasia , meaning that a pet, which could have a second chance at life, will be put down solely for financial reasons.

Betsy Banks Saul, a passionate pet advocate and founder of Petfinder, estimates that in the mid-1990s, somewhere between 16 million and 20 million dogs and cats in animal shelters were euthanized. These animals might easily have been adoptable, even with medical conditions that could have been remedied, if only…

Petfinder was able to put a huge dent in that number by showcasing animals in need of furever homes to a wide audience on the internet. Saul notes that countless organizations have harnessed their energies to embrace the no-kill mantra, and as a result of that determined effort, that staggeringly huge number has declined steadily and significantly to 600,000. But that is still 600,000 too many animals lost. Always on the lookout for solutions to pet problems, Saul is also the founder of 911 Foster Pets , which helps animal rescue foundations find foster care for pets until they can be adopted.

Saul estimates that between $8 billion and $14 billion worth of needed health care is not delivered to animals in need. Sadly, that underscores the desperate situation of a pet guardian lamenting, "I simply have no money for veterinary services. I am at a loss for how to access emergency vet care with no money. Is there financial assistance that can help me with treatment costs? Or a way to explore getting emergency vet care for free for me and my pet?"

Don’t Let the Cost of Care Prevent You From Saving Your Pet

Waggle answers with a resounding "YES!" Our mission is to take a bite out of that 600,000 number, giving thousands of pets a second chance to live out their natural lives. Waggle's CEO and founder, Steven Mornelli, an ardent animal lover and business executive, knew there had to be the "pawsibility" of a second chance for many of these wonderful, innocent animals in life-threatening situations.

"Heartbreaking economic euthanasia is an unacceptable outcome for both the pet guardian and a pet in need," he says. "Finances should not be a barrier to getting the medical attention a pet requires." Mornelli created Waggle as a trusted means to help low-income pet guardians get the financial assistance they need for non-routine veterinary care. Owners who have lost hope can turn to Waggle as a proven resource. Indeed, Waggle has been working tirelessly for nearly five years to offer a viable solution to low- and fixed-income families who need help finding resources to cover their pets' treatment. In pursuit of that mission, we have com up with a groundbreaking platform for emergency crowdfunding! 

Waggle Helps You Raise Funds for Veterinary Bills

Most crowdfunding platforms are for-profit, but Waggle is a registered 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization. Unlike many other crowdfunding websites, Waggle is dedicated to pets and only pets. Popular crowdfunding websites like Kickstarter and Pozible help creative ideas come to fruition. Others, like JustGiving, promote social causes, and still others, like GoFundMe and Indiegogo, underwrite just about anything.

Moreover, Waggle is a trusted platform with built-in assurances that safeguard against fraudulent campaigns: 100% of donations raised for a particular animal are sent directly to the veterinary clinic, providing total transparency. Donors are assessed an additional 8% above the amount of their campaign contribution to cover operating expenses, and Waggle gently asks for a "tip" to cover transaction costs. This provides Waggle with the financial means to "keep the lights on," so whatever money is raised for a pet goes to that pet's vet bills.

Another Waggle plus: Corporate partners and foundations provide matching funds for many campaigns, turning a $1 donation into $2 and propelling a campaign to its monetary goal more quickly, so that much-needed funds for life-threatening conditions can be realized. Currently, Waggle has established partnerships with nearly three dozen charities and foundations, including Miranda Lambert's MuttNation Foundation, Mayim Bialik, Lil BUB, Maddie's Fund, Eli's Fund, Greater Good Charities, The Riedel & Cody Fund (specifically for cancer care), and World of Labs. This makes our platform great for low-income crowdfunding, with sponsors offering matching emergency pet funds offering a boost to help those in need! 

In addition, Waggle works with our blog partners and influencers to bolster a campaign's visibility in order to get it fully funded speedily. For example, we feature needy cats on the Lil BUB site, which has millions of followers. These postings aid pet guardians by bringing many more eyeballs (and dollars) to a campaign more quickly.

Tessa Rose is a yellow Labrador Retriever who needed expensive surgery, an enterotomy. And why? As Tessa Rose herself wrote in her recent Waggle posting (Psst: We think her human helped her pen her campaign.), "I was a naughty girl and got a potato off the table, and it got stuck in my belly." A matching grant from Riedel & Cody enabled Tessa to have that urgent (and successful!) surgery. Her human mom reported: "Our hearts are bursting! We are so unbelievably grateful for the love and generosity we've received.”

Murphy , a Brittany Spaniel mix, presented with another emergency, a tragedy in the making that was averted. Murph, as he is known, tragically needed emergency amputation for an infected, mangled leg. Post-surgery, his adoptive mom sent an update: "Murph has made a complete recovery! We know he is thankful for this SECOND CHANCE as a tripod. We are SO very grateful to everyone who followed/prayed and donated towards his care. … It truly took a village. THANK YOU!”

Posting a campaign on Waggle is simple, with easy-to-follow instructions on the site. Notes Dr. Block of Ocean State, "The Waggle platform and website are intuitive and easy to navigate. We have been able to direct clients to the site to harness the power of crowdfunding for animals in need." To date, Waggle has worked with more than 1,000 vet clinics and rescue organizations nationwide to offer assistance to owners with vet bills for basic care; non-basic, non-urgent care; and critical emergency care.

Be Resourceful With Emergency Pet Care Funds

When you are faced with emergency vet bills, swift action is imperative. Many veterinarians facilitate quick coverage by recommending fast-approval lines of credit specifically designed for medical (and, by extension, veterinary) emergencies, so you can pay for your pet's care over time.

A large percentage of veterinarians will suggest CareCredit , which differs from a standard credit card company in that it is designed to cover out-of-pocket expenses for health and wellness care that are not underwritten by insurance, covering health care expenses for humans as well as care for pets. CareCredit is a near-instant solution for cash-strapped pet parents so their four-legged family members' time-sensitive health issues are not exacerbated by a ticking clock while they hunt for other options that will take slightly longer to target and mobilize. Scratchpay is another instant-approval line of credit, as is Wells Fargo Health Advantage Veterinary Client Financing .

Make sure you understand the repayment terms. With CareCredit, for example, if you make minimum monthly payments and pay off your balance within six to 24 months, there is no interest on purchases of at least $200. Scratchpay, which doesn't require credit approval, offers what it calls a Take 5 plan that breaks the bill into five biweekly payments, with no interest and no credit check.

Taking out a line of credit and assuming that responsibility when you are on shaky financial ground is a scary commitment, but it may be necessary as you pursue other charitable opportunities. One of these options may be the ideal solution to getting a treatment plan started as you organize your Waggle campaign and apply for financial assistance grants.

Not every Waggle campaign gets funded overnight, but there are countless success stories where an almost-instant happy ending occurs. In February 2020, Lulu , a Poodle mix, found her furever home, but almost immediately, her new parents learned she needed extensive, emergency dental work because of an infection. Facing a possible $2,000 bill for dental surgery, her family launched Lulu's campaign on Waggle and simultaneously posted it on their Facebook page. Generous friends came to Lulu's aid with donations, and Waggle was able to provide matching funds through its partner, Greater Good Charities. The story had a storybook ending, but more importantly, it was a quick one. It took merely 24 hours to raise the money Lulu needed.

See her story on TV!

Setting up your campaign on Waggle's nonprofit crowdfunding platform is a breeze, so do that first, so your campaign will already be "working" while you look for other aid.

Here are a few resources we often recommend that feature extensive listings worth investigating:

• BestFriends.org : Hundreds of potential resources to investigate by state, breed, and condition; additionally, resources for low-income seniors, people with disabilities, and those who are seriously ill themselves. Bonus: lots of helpful advice on caring for your pet.
• HumaneSociety.org : Everything from pet food assistance, help with spay and neuter surgery, breed-specific aid, nearly two dozen national sources for help, and detailed listings for financial assistance by state.
• RedRover.org : An extensive directory, including national options and listings by state, condition, and breed, as well as other general resources.
• SpeakingForSpot.com : National and state-by-state listings.
• FetchACure.org : Links to additional resources.

Read more about getting financial assistance for your pet's emergency medical bills

• Financial assistance for low income households
• Animal charity groups that help with emergency vet bills
• Assistance with vet bills for pet surgeries and disease treatments

Learn more about other trending pet topics

• Crowdfunding solutions for your pet's emergency vet bills
• Disaster preparedness for your pets
• What to know about having pets in the military
• The benefits of companion pets for seniors and retirees
• Which pets are good for seniors and retirees
• Caring for senior pets

FAQ things to know before you go

How do i know if it’s an emergency.

Never self-diagnose your pet. Sometimes you just can’t tell if your pet is having a true emergency. But VEG can. Call us anytime and a veterinarian will answer your medical questions and determine if you should come in.

Can I go to VEG for urgent care?

Yes! Come to Veterinary Emergency Group and we’ll triage urgent care for your pet immediately.

Why should I go to the VEG ER instead of an urgent care clinic?

There’s a difference in the level of care that you’ll get at VEG. Clinics can only offer some services. At VEG, we have the latest equipment and technology to tackle urgent care and emergencies all under one roof.

What can I expect at VEG?

When you take your pet to VEG, you’ll be seen by a veterinarian right away, even before filling out paperwork. We’ll even meet you at your car if you need help bringing in your pet. No waiting in the lobby; you stay with your pet the entire time, even if surgery is involved. And yes, we’re pet lovers, but we’re people-friendly too! We’ll openly discuss diagnosis and treatment options. And we always make sure the pet patient and pet parent are as comfortable as possible.

Can I bring my pet in for dental emergencies?

Yes, we’ll handle teeth emergencies, though standard dental care should be handled by your primary veterinarian.

Where can I take my pet bird or exotic pet in an emergency?

VEG is skilled to handle emergency care for avians, reptiles, basically anything with fur, feathers, shells, and scales!

My pet is acting funny. What should I do?

Call VEG. A veterinarian is always available, 24/7, to answer your medical questions.

Do you provide preventive care like vaccines?

Veterinary Emergency Group focuses solely on pet emergencies and urgent care. (After all, Emergency is our middle name!) Preventative care should be handled by your primary care veterinarian.

Do I have to make an appointment?

At VEG, we don’t take appointments, because we deal with emergencies. When the unexpected happens, call us or take your pet to the nearest VEG location for immediate care.

When are you open?

Veterinary Emergency Group is open all the time, 24/7, even on holidays to care for pet emergencies.

Do I have to call before coming in?

Though you can just walk in anytime, we recommend calling first so we’re familiar with the situation when you come in.

What if I can’t get my pet out of the car?

Call VEG ahead of time to let us know you need help. Pull up to our door and we’ll meet you at your car to provide assistance.

Do you handle euthanasia?

Yes, VEG provides compassionate end-of-life care for pets within a peaceful, private room.

Do you handle spay and neuters?

VEG focuses on emergencies and urgent care for pets. Spaying and neutering is handled by your pet’s primary care veterinarian.

Does VEG offer payment plans?

VEG accepts the CareCredit credit card with special financing options * and offers payment plans through Scratch Pay. We will always provide estimates prior to medical care so that you are fully informed and able to make financial arrangements if necessary.

*Subject to credit approval.

I found a lost pet. What should I do?

Bring it to VEG and we’ll help reconnect the lost pet with their family.

Does VEG take in stray animals?

The best place to bring a stray is your local GP veterinarian, a shelter, or rehabilitation center. These places are best equipped to get the animal treated and back to their owner, if there is one. If these options are not available, VEG’s mission is helping people and their pets when they need us most, and that includes strays! If the stray animal you found needs emergency care, we’re here to help.

Call & Speak with a veterinarian Open 24/7,  Even Holidays!

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14 Charities & Organizations That Can Help Pay Vet Bills

By Nicole Cosgrove

Updated on Jan 17, 2024

Owning a pet is a blessing. They bring joy, comfort, and meaning into our lives, and we love taking care of them. If you’re good at budgeting, owning a cat, doggo, or rabbit doesn’t cost that much. Unfortunately, accidents do happen, and even the healthiest pets get sick sometimes, leaving you with a hefty veterinary bill to pay.

But what if you’re struggling financially and can’t pay for the clinic’s services? Don’t worry: you can always turn to non-commercial charities that specialize in helping fellow pet parents cover their hefty bills. And today, we want to introduce you to the 14 most trusted and easy-to-reach US-based organizations that will gladly cover the expenses. Take a look!

The 14 Charities & Organizations That Can Help Pay Vet Bills

1. the pet fund.

Founded back in 2003, this non-profit organization works directly with licensed vets and aims at funding pets, or, rather, covering their pending bills. As a parent, you can ask Pet Fund for financial aid through their website. First, send an official request via email and only then put together your application. You won’t get help from Pet Fund if you’re dealing with an emergency, though.

This charity only covers non-basic and non-emergency procedures and services. The list includes chronic conditions, heart problems, cancer treatments, and eye diseases. Vaccinations and routine visits will be paid for as well. But again, if your cat or dog needs urgent surgery, a diagnostic test, or sterilization, Pet Fund won’t pay for any of that.

2. Brown Dog Foundation

Cancer is the number one cause of death in cats and dogs 1 . On October 16, 2006, it took the life of Chip, an outstanding pup. He had lymphoma and, unfortunately, his human parents had no means of paying for the treatment. That’s why they had to surrender him hoping that the doggo would get better care at a rescue center.

Brown Dog Organization was founded in the name of Chip and has one simple, yet important goal: to help domestic animals in need. Now, they don’t reimburse veterinary services. Instead, this charity will only aid with pending bills at a vet clinic. Here’s how it works: you fill out a survey on their website, and then Brown Dog helps pay for a procedure.

3. Frankie’s Friends

No pet parent wants to give their fur babies away just because they don’t have money to pay for emergency treatment. Thankfully, if they get a grant from Frankie’s Friends, that won’t be a problem anymore. This organization has been around for two decades and specializes in covering urgent veterinary services for life-threatening conditions. It’s ready to help with unique/uncommon issues and conditions as well.

Frankie’s Friends requires pet owners to provide proof that they are, indeed, unable to pay for an emergency procedure. The staff also requests an official confirmation from a professional animal doctor that the selected treatment has a good prognosis. You can expect to get up to $1,500 in financial aid. Frankie’s Friends also invests heavily in new, promising research.

4. Paws 4 A Cure

Next up, we have a non-profit organization that only “employs” volunteers. So, if you want to help the cause, you can always join their ranks. Paws 4 A Cure will be a great choice for folks looking to pay off a non-routine vet clinic bill. We’re talking about the so-called surprise bills that catch pet parents off-guard. Yes, you should only reach out if your furry friend requires emergency meds, surgery, or special equipment.

Vaccinations, sterilization, and euthanasia won’t be covered. To be eligible, don’t forget to share your vet’s diagnosis and an estimated cost for the treatment. If you skip this part, Paws 4 A Cure won’t hit you back. They accept applications from single owners/households yet don’t work with shelters or rescue groups.

5. Kyle’s Legacy Inc.

If your doggo is fighting cancer, seek help at Kyle’s Legacy Inc. This organization specializes in oncological diseases and has various charity and fundraising programs for aiding canines that are trying to beat this terrible disease. The company also funds cancer research and spreads awareness among pet parents so that they can take better care of their dogs.

Created in the loving memory of Kyle, a Puggle, this foundation only works with dog owners. If you’re a cat person and have a kitty in dire need of help, you can scratch Kyle’s Legacy Inc. off your list. That said, canine moms and dads are always welcome to send a message including proof of financial struggles and info from a veterinarian.

6. Lovie’s Legacy

As you’ve probably guessed, this is yet another foundation established to honor someone special. But this time around, it celebrates Lovie Mae Smith, a wonderful human being who passed away in 2005 when she was 97. But, her legacy lives on with Lovie’s Legacy . Emergency veterinary service bills: that’s what the folks over at Lovie’s can help cover.

And pet parents won’t have to wait forever to get an answer from this organization: they’re usually fast and helpful with their responses (there’s a 24/7 phone line). Lovie’s Legacy only accepts applications from Tennessee residents, though. If you’re from a different state, you won’t get any financial help.

7. Shakespeare Animal Fund

Much like the previous organization, SAF does cover all 50 states. Instead, it only operates in northern Nevada (13 counties) and North Central Florida. This is great news if you’re a local because you won’t have to wait long to get aid. The Shakespeare Animal Fund opens its doors to every dog, cat, or any other pet owner and does its best to be of assistance.

You can contact them via a hotline or email. Once approved, they’ll ask you to select an animal doctor, and the fund will tell you exactly how much they can pay.

8. Bow Wow Buddies Foundation

Dog owners struggling to pay their fur baby’s veterinary bills can turn to Bow Wow for financial support. This non-profit organization covers both meds/treatment and surgeries for emergencies like sudden injury or a medical issue. And they don’t only help single pet parents or households. Bow Wow does its best to assist animal shelters and rescue groups as well, giving each doggo a chance to get better.

9. MyPetChild

This organization doesn’t just provide the funds to cover bills but also helps find other sources of financial aid. That’s what sets it apart from similar charities. On average, you can expect to get a $200 grant; while it might not cover the most expensive procedures, it’s still a significant sum. It’s only given out to cover non-urgent and non-routine veterinary services, though.

To try your luck with MyPetChild , you can use a phone number or send an application online. This non-profit is available both in the US and the UK.

10. Emma’s Foundation for Canine Cancer

Just like the name suggests, EFCC was founded in dedication to Emma, a pretty canine girl who was taken away from her parents by cancer. It developed in the dog’s jaw, and the owners had the option of removing it and increasing the pet’s life expectancy to an extra year. However, the mom and dad decided to skip the surgery and instead enjoy the time that they had left together.

Today, Emma’s Foundation does a great job of helping fellow pet parents living in New England and Florida pay for their four-legged buds’ cancer treatments.

11. Help-A-Pet

Looking for financial support to pay hefty veterinary clinic bills for an injured/ill pet? You could get the necessary help with Help-A-Pet . This non-profit caters to the needs of pet owners that can’t handle the checks on their own. If you’re eligible, the organization’s staff will review the application, and (with luck) your fur baby’s procedures will be financed.

Help-A-Pet sends the funds directly to animal doctors/clinics that provide the services. But, you will have to make less than $20,000 per year (or $40,000 as a household).

12. STARelief & Pet Assistance

Over the years, the volunteers at STARelief managed to pay $103,000 in veterinary bills and lend a helping hand to more than 650 pets in the US. This charity is always ready to come to the aid of low-income households and individuals, seniors, military folks, pet owners with physical or mental conditions, and even homeless pet parents.

STARelief has a number of programs specifically tailored to the needs of different groups of people.

13. RedRover Relief

With RedRover , you can get up to $200 in a grant for emergency pet care. If the domestic animal has a life-threatening condition, yet a promising prognosis, it will be eligible for such a grant. However, if the application isn’t filled out correctly or there’s no treatment plan, it won’t go through. And remember: this organization never covers existing bills, only new ones.

RedRover provides support for pet owners that are struggling both financially (make less than $60,000 as a household) and emotionally.

14. AVMA, AHF, and HSUS

If you can’t seem to get a grant from any of the non-profits listed above, try your luck with the “big players”. We’re talking about the American Veterinary Medical Association (AVMA), the American Health Foundation (AHF), and the Human Society of the United States (HSUS). Now, it may take a bit longer to get financial help from these organizations.

But, if you manage to get the necessary aid, it will be well worth the wait.

What Other Options Do You Have?

Before asking a non-profit organization to help with the bills, check your insurance first. Chances are, the company is willing to cover the expenses (fully or partially). This mostly applies to emergencies and unexpected vet visits due to a broken bone, bloated stomach, an insect bite, or something like that. Fortunately, pet insurance is rather affordable and costs $30 for felines and $45 for canines.

Next, try your luck at a local veterinary college. While they do charge for their services, the cost is usually much lower compared to commercial clinics. Low-income families are always a priority there. Going back to charities and organizations, keep in mind that they might not have the capacity to help you. They mostly rely on donations to stay afloat. Besides, not every single pet owner is eligible for their grants.

Savings, Credit Cards, Crowd-Funding, and More

Talking to a professional animal doctor never hurts. And if you tell them about your current financial situation, they might help you find a solution that’s equally affordable and efficient. Also, consider planning ahead and putting aside $50–$100 every month for emergencies. Or, you could go with a healthcare credit card that specializes in veterinary financing.

If your pet needs expensive meds, get yourself a GoodRX (it’s a free discount card) and “hunt” for low prices at local pharmacies or use Scratchpay. Personal loans are also an option, of course, but make sure you’re happy with the terms before proceeding. And let’s not forget about social media! With the right approach, you might just be able to cover the bill via crowd-funding.

• CoFund My Pet
• GoGetFunding

How Much Does an Emergency Vet Visit Cost?

A routine checkup at a local veterinary clinic will only set you back $50–$250. However, if it’s an emergency visit, expect to pay twice as much . An X-Ray is going to cost somewhere between $100 and $250, while most animal doctors can do an ultrasound on your pet for $300–$600. A cat or doggo with a severe wound will have to say goodbye to $700–$2,000.

Hospitalization is even more expensive . If the pet has to stay at the clinic for a couple of days, the bill will be $500–$1,700; five days of hospitalization costs $1,500–$3,500. Lastly, emergency surgeries are the priciest procedures. The list includes severe infections, bloat, or bad injuries. The check for such a service can often reach $5,000 or more.

Emergency vet care is not cheap . The cost varies depending on the clinic, treatment, diagnosis, and other factors, but often, it takes a toll on our wallets. Knowing that there is a way to help your favorite kitty or pup, yet not being able to pull it off financially, is heartbreaking. Thankfully, we’re not alone in this fight!

There are quite a few charities/organizations that can be of aid. They don’t ask anything in return: just that you keep loving and caring for the furry bud. So, instead of counting every single cent and skipping “optional” and “non-essential” procedures and treatments, don’t hesitate to ask for help. Your fur baby will thank you for that!

• Paws and Claws Vet
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Featured Image Credit: hedgehog94, Shutterstock

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VCA Animal Hospitals Urgent Care - Wheat Ridge

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Same day urgent pet care is available at VCA Animal Hospitals Urgent Care. Join the virtual waiting room queue and wait at home till your pet's turn to be seen. We provide the hometown care you want and your pet the world-class medicine they need - today. Now serving the communities of Denver, Arvada, Lakeside, Edgewater, and Allendale. We're reimagining the veterinary experience for pets and their people by providing faster access to world-class veterinary medicine including a calming environment with unparalleled visibility into wait times, and transparent, real-time communication with our experienced veterinary care teams. When it matters most, you bring your pet to VCA. …

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I can't say enough about this animal hospital and Dr. Rebecca Windsor! Our Frenchie has had two two surgeries on two different discs in his neck. She performed both, we were lucky to get her both times! Everyone at this hospital is very friendly, caring and professional. We've also had our Great Dane there for heart issues and they took excellent care of him as well! It's quite a drive for us but we are willing to make it knowing the care our fur babies will receive.

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Jun 13, 2024

Marc, your kind words mean a lot to our team. We're glad to hear that both of your pets have received excellent care during their visits!

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Prepare Your Pets for Disasters

Make a Plan

Build a Kit

Prepare Pets for Travel

Tips for large animals, stay informed, associated content.

Your pets are an important member of your family, so they need to be included in your family’s emergency plan. To prepare for the unexpected follow these tips with your pets in mind:

• Make a plan.
• Build an emergency kit.
• Stay informed.

If you have a plan in place for you and your pets, you will likely encounter less difficulty, stress and worry when you need to make a decision during an emergency. If local officials ask you to evacuate, that means your pet should evacuate too. If you leave your pets behind, they may end up lost, injured or worse.

Things to include in your plan:

• Have an evacuation plan for your pet. Many public shelters and hotels do not allow pets inside. Know a safe place where you can take your pets before disasters and emergencies happen.
• Develop a buddy system. Plan with neighbors, friends or relatives to make sure that someone is available to care for or evacuate your pets if you are unable to do so.
• Have your pet microchipped . Make sure to keep your address and phone number up-to-date and include contact information for an emergency contact outside of your immediate area.
• Contact your local emergency management office, animal shelter or animal control office to get additional advice and information if you’re unsure how to care for your pet in case of an emergency.

Build a Kit for Your Pet

Just as you do with your family’s emergency supply kit, think first about the basics for survival, such as food and water. Have two kits, one larger kit if you are sheltering in place and one lightweight version for if you need to evacuate.  Review your kits regularly to ensure that their contents, especially foods and medicines, are fresh.

Here are some items you may want to include in an emergency kit for your pet:

• Food. Keep several days’ supply of food in an airtight, waterproof container.
• Water. Store a water bowl and several days’ supply of water.
• Medicine. Keep an extra supply of the medicine your pet takes on a regular basis in a waterproof container.
• First aid kit. Talk to your veterinarian about what is most appropriate for your pet’s emergency medical needs.
• Collar with ID tag and a harness or leash . Include a backup leash, collar and ID tag. Have copies of your pet’s registration information and other relevant documents in a waterproof container and available electronically.
• Traveling bag, crate or sturdy carrier , ideally one for each pet.
• Grooming items. Pet shampoo, conditioner and other items, in case your pet needs some cleaning up.
• Sanitation needs. Include pet litter and litter box (if appropriate), newspapers, paper towels, plastic trash bags and household chlorine bleach to provide for your pet’s sanitation needs.
• A picture of you and your pet together . If you become separated from your pet during an emergency, a picture of you and your pet together will help you document ownership and allow others to assist you in identifying your pet.
• Familiar items. Put favorite toys, treats or bedding in your kit. Familiar items can help reduce stress for your pet.

When evacuating your home, it’s important to bring your pets. Because you may need to put your cat or dog into a pet carrier, it’s important that they’re comfortable with the experience. Follow these tips to reduce their stress:

• Leave the carrier out in places your pet frequently visits
• Leave the carrier open
• Feed them treats near the carrier – you can even try putting a few treats inside the carrier
• Add a favorite blanket or small bed inside the carrier so it smells familiar
• Make note of where your pets hide, so you can easily find them in case you have to leave your house quickly.

If you have pets such as horses, goats or pigs on your property, be sure to prepare before a disaster.

In addition to the tips above:

• Ensure all animals have some form of identification.
• Evacuate animals earlier, whenever possible. Map out primary and secondary routes in advance.
• Make available vehicles and trailers needed for transporting and supporting each type of animal. Also make available experienced handlers and drivers.
• Ensure destinations have food, water, veterinary care and handling equipment.
• If evacuation is not possible, animal owners must decide whether to move large animals to a barn or turn them loose outside.

Being prepared and staying informed of current conditions. Here are some ways you can stay informed:

• Pay attention to wireless emergency alerts for local alerts and warnings sent by state and local public safety officials.
• Listen to local officials when told to evacuate or shelter in place.
• Download the FEMA app and get weather alerts from the National Weather Service, for up to five different locations anywhere in the United States.
• Always bring pets indoors at the first sign or warning of a storm or disaster.
• Prepare Your Pets for Disasters Brochure (PDF)
• Prepare Your Pets for Disasters Brochure (PDF)(Spanish)
• American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (ASPCA)
• American Humane Association
• The Palo Alto Humane Society (PAHS)
• Preparing makes sense for Pet owners  (Video)

Last Updated: 06/03/2024

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How does pet insurance work?

In a nutshell

For a small monthly fee, you can purchase pet insurance to cover medical costs for your dog, cat or other pet.

• Pet insurance typically requires you to save your vet bills for covered services and submit claims for reimbursement from your insurance provider.
• Depending on your plan, coverage can be limited to emergency visits or extend to preventive care.
• Pet insurance will cost you about $10 to $53 per month, though it varies by pet, policy and provider.

Lemonade Pet Insurance

What is pet insurance.

Pets are treasured family friends who need lots of care and attention. Medical care is one important part of that, including preventive visits, regular veterinarian visits and emergency care.

Unfortunately, emergency vet visits don’t come cheap. In fact, MetLife estimates an emergency vet visit for a dog could run between $150 and $5,000. For a cat, it can cost between $150 and $3,000. Without ample savings for this kind of situation, just one emergency could end up breaking the bank.

Enter pet insurance: a health plan you can pay into every month to protect your furry friend in case a covered medical incident arises. Just like human health insurance, pet insurance covers certain medical procedures, including accidents, illnesses or preventive care, depending on the plan. Pet insurance works just like other insurance plans: It has deductibles, coverage limits and other specifications that vary by provider.

Pet insurance works similarly to health insurance for humans, covering the cost of designated procedures as outlined in your policy. Unlike health insurance, however, pet insurance is almost exclusively paid via reimbursements, rather than veterinary offices billing the insurance company directly. That means you’ll have to cover the bill for your pet’s vet visit and file a claim to get the covered amount reimbursed.

Pet insurance comes with a few key terms you’ll need to understand, including the following:

• Premium: Your pet insurance premium — or the amount you pay each month for coverage — will vary depending on different factors, including your pet’s age and health history, the instances you want covered, your deductible and more.
• Deductible: Pet insurance plans come with a deductible, which is an amount of money you are responsible for paying before your policy kicks in.
• Reimbursement percentage: After you meet your deductible, your pet insurance plan will cover a percentage of the remaining bill, which usually ranges from 60% to 100%. (80% to 90% is most common.)
• Annual limit: Your plan might also have an annual limit to the amount of money you can claim. Once you reach this limit, you are personally responsible for additional medical charges.
• Covered services: Every pet insurance policy is different when it comes to what bills are covered. Some policies only kick in for accidents and emergencies, and others include preventive care.

What does pet insurance cover?

There are three main types of pet insurance coverage, each of which accounts for different medical procedures and costs:

• Accident-only coverage: This is the most basic form of pet insurance, and it covers emergency situations such as broken bones, bite wounds or ingesting a foreign object.
• Accident and illness coverage: Accident and illness coverage pays for the cost of emergency injuries plus treatment for certain illnesses such as cancer, allergies or infections.
• Wellness coverage: Wellness coverage is the most comprehensive form of pet insurance. It includes accidents and injuries and routine vet expenses, such as wellness exams, vaccinations and blood work.

Plans may include a combination of any of these covered instances, so you’ll want to read the terms of the policy carefully before deciding which one is best for you.

What does pet insurance not cover?

For the most part, pet insurance will not cover preexisting conditions. Even if you find a policy that covers preexisting conditions, you’ll likely be subject to a longer waiting period before coverage kicks in.

Other noncovered costs may include:

• Elective procedures.
• Pregnancy and breeding.
• Behavioral issues.
• Preventable diseases.

Pet insurance also won’t pay for nonmedical costs, like food, grooming or boarding.

How much does pet insurance cost?

The cost of pet insurance varies significantly depending on different factors, such as your pet's age, gender and breed, as well as the level of coverage, deductible and reimbursement percentage you choose. The average cost is between $10 and $53 per month, according to PetMD .

Pet insurance with wellness coverage — the most comprehensive option — will run you the most per year. According to the North American Pet Health Insurance Association 2023 state of the industry report , the average annual premium for this kind of coverage was $613.37 for cats and $1,134 for dogs in 2022. In comparison, the average for accident-only coverage was $122.19 for cats and $200.58 for dogs.

What to consider before getting pet insurance

Pet insurance can be costly, especially if you opt for wellness coverage or have an older pet or a breed with known health issues. Before deciding if pet insurance is right for you, consider if you have the budget for the premium and deductible as well as the kind of situations you might need pet insurance for.

Remember, however, that emergency vet visits can run to thousands of dollars, so if you do not have a fund in place to cover this charge, you need to be prepared to decide how you will shoulder the cost.

Related: Is pet insurance worth it?

How to get pet insurance

If you’re ready to sign up for pet insurance, follow these steps:

1. Compare insurance providers

The first step is to research available options and find ones that meet your needs. Are you insuring a dog, cat or other animal? What level of coverage are you looking for? What is your budget? These are all important questions to answer and make sure potential policies match.

2. Apply for coverage

Once you’ve chosen an insurance provider, you are ready to apply for coverage. You’ll be required to submit personal information about yourself and your animal, which may include health history information about any preexisting conditions.

3. Comply with the waiting period

Many pet insurance policies will have a waiting period of a few weeks before coverage kicks in. If possible, wait to schedule any veterinary visits until after this period.

4. Start using your insurance coverage

After you’ve been approved for coverage and your waiting period is over, you can start to use your coverage. You’ll continue to receive treatment for your pet as usual and cover the bill, but then submit your covered charges for reimbursement.

Popular pet insurance providers

If you’re ready to check out pet insurance policies, consider these popular providers:

Lemonade is a popular pet insurance provider, thanks to affordable plan options and comprehensive coverage for care, from annual wellness exams to vaccines. They offer an easy-to-use app where you can find out if your claim is covered in minutes. You also might be eligible for discounts on your premiums if you insure multiple pets or pay annually. Lemonade plans start at $10 per month.

Offering a variety of plans with comprehensive coverage, from accidents to routine care, Pets Best is another great choice for protecting your cat or dog. For accident and illness plans, Pets Best does not institute an upper age limit on pets covered, so pet owners with older furry friends might consider this provider. Plans from the issuer start as low as $6 per month for accident-only insurance for cats and $9 per month for dogs.

Fetch is another popular pet insurance provider, offering a variety of plans for dogs and other pets. One unique selling point is that Fetch covers hereditary conditions linked to pet breeds, which many other providers exclude. If you have a pet breed with a history of health issues, a Fetch plan might be a good choice. The average cost for Fetch plans is $35 per month for dogs and $20 per month for cats, although it varies by coverage level.

Embrace pet insurance offers a variety of coverage options, including pet dental insurance, which is difficult to find. The provider also has a more flexible policy regarding preexisting conditions than competitors, covering costs associated with curable preexisting conditions when the pet has been symptom-free for at least a year. Plans from Embrace start as low as $8 per month, depending on pet and coverage.

Nationwide is the only major pet insurance provider that offers coverage for “exotic” pets, or animals other than cats or dogs. If you’re looking for coverage for your lizard, rabbit, guinea pig or other pet not covered by traditional policies, this may be a good choice for you. Monthly premiums with Nationwide start at about $31 per month and vary based on coverage amount and type of pet.

Related: Best pet insurance companies

The AP Buyline roundup

Pet insurance can be pricey — especially if you want a low deductible and high coverage — but it can definitely be worth the cost. Unexpected veterinary emergencies are very expensive, and pet insurance can help you rest assured you will be able to cover the costs of keeping your furry friends happy and healthy.

Keep in mind that most pet insurance policies require you to cover the cost upfront and file for reimbursement later, so keeping an emergency fund to pay for these costs is also a smart financial move.

Frequently asked questions (FAQs)

How does a deductible work with pet insurance.

A pet insurance deductible works just like any other insurance deductible. You’ll need to meet this cost before your policy will cover any bills. Depending on your insurance provider, you might have an annual deductible or a per-incident deductible. With an annual deductible, you’ll need to meet the set amount just one time before further charges are covered, according to your plan’s terms, for the rest of the year. For a per-incident deductible, you’ll be responsible for paying a certain balance on every single vet bill.

How soon after getting pet insurance can you use it?

For the most part, you’ll be subject to a waiting period after you sign up for pet insurance before you can start to take advantage of it. This could be as short as a couple of weeks or as long as several months, and it can vary based on the instance you need to be covered. If you’re considering signing up for pet insurance, make sure to read your policy's terms and conditions carefully for these requirements.

Does pet insurance cover any pets besides cats and dogs?

It depends on the policy. Most providers — like Lemonade and Fetch — only provide coverage for cats and dogs, but you can find policies that extend to other animals. For instance, Nationwide Insurance covers exotic animals, from birds to guinea pigs.

Fulton, DeKalb animal shelters to hold emergency adoption events and ‘Free Dog Friday’

ATLANTA, Ga. (Atlanta News First) - Lifeline Animal Project, which manages animal shelters in Fulton and DeKalb counties, will hold dog adoption events this weekend to combat overcrowding and euthanasia in its shelters.

The events are on Saturday and Sunday from noon to 5 p.m. at the nonprofit’s former Fulton County shelter, 860 Marietta Blvd. NW. Despite opening a new 50,000-square-foot location in December , Lifeline said it has temporarily moved more than 60 dogs back to the old shelter due to an intake spike and four-month painting project.

The nonprofit’s “Free Dog Friday” promotion is also returning this summer through Aug. 30. The dogs come spayed or neutered with their vaccines and a microchip — all of which would normally cost more than $300, Lifeline said.

PREVIOUS COVERAGE: LifeLine Animal Project’s new Fulton County shelter is already reaching capacity

The shelter said its locations have struggled to keep “humane housing numbers” in the past few months, despite lengthening service hours.

“It’s imperative that we find homes for these animals. We simply cannot do this lifesaving work without the help of our community,” Fulton County Animal Shelter director Audrey Shoemaker said. “Even if you can help just one animal by opening your home temporarily, it makes a huge difference.”

Overall, Lifeline needs to adopt out more than 130 dogs to meet target numbers at its shelters.

“When those target capacity goals cannot be met, difficult euthanasia decisions have to be made,” the nonprofit said in a statement.

Click here to see Lifeline’s adoptable animals or learn more about fostering.

Copyright 2024 WANF. All rights reserved.

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