Access to Veterinary Care: Barriers and Insights from Pet Families

This study identifies notable shifts in families with pets and access to veterinary care compared to the 2018 study. The average number of pets per household declined from 2.2 to 2.0, with nearly half of households now caring for only one pet—most often a dog. This change may reflect evolving lifestyle patterns, including urbanization and financial constraints. Differences between cats and dogs were also evident: cats are more frequently taken in as strays, highlighting ongoing challenges with unowned populations, while dogs are less likely to be spayed or neutered. Although cost remains a barrier to sterilization, many dog families reported intentional breeding decisions, underscoring the need for continued education about the health and societal benefits of spay/neuter practices.

Acquisition methods were also linked to sterilization rates, with pets adopted from shelters more likely to be spayed or neutered, and gifted pets least likely—suggesting gaps in preparedness and awareness among recipients. Compared to 2018, barriers to accessing veterinary care have increased across all income groups, geographic locations, and age ranges, with rising reports of logistical challenges such as appointment availability and clinic hours. These obstacles extend beyond financial capacity, with higher-income households also reporting limited access.

Households encountering veterinary barriers were more likely to report surrendering or euthanizing pets and described pets as a source of stress, underscoring the wider emotional and practical consequences of limited access. Respondents expressed strong interest in local pet resources, including training, behavior support, and temporary care options for aging populations. Findings emphasize the need for expanded veterinary access, targeted outreach, and supportive community systems.