At Vets to Pets, we understand that unexpected medical expenses can be challenging for pet owners. However, after careful consideration, we’ve chosen not to offer payment plans for several important reasons:

Financial Risks and Operational Challenges
Managing payment plans involves significant financial risks and administrative burdens. A study analyzing six years of payment plan data across various veterinary clinics found that emergency clinics had an average financed amount of $1,107 per account, which is 44.7% more than small animal clinics ($765) and 172.7% more than non-profit clinics ($406). (frontiersin.org) Additionally, the same study highlighted that non-profit clinics finance a lower portion of total costs compared to other organization types, averaging 53.1% of total costs.(frontiersin.org) These figures underscore the complexities and potential financial strains associated with offering payment plans.

Ensuring Immediate and Quality Care
Veterinary emergencies require prompt action and resources. The national average cost for an emergency vet exam ranges from $96 to $236 for dogs and $94 to $228 for cats, depending on various factors. (carecredit.com) By requiring payment at the time of service, we are able to allocate resources efficiently and focus on delivering immediate, high-quality care without delays or complications arising from pending payments.

Financial Sustainability of Our Clinic

Operating a mobile veterinary clinic involves substantial overhead costs – rent, electricity, gas, vehicle maintenance, medical supplies, prescription diets, specialist consultations, accountants, marketing, and of course, ensuring that our hardworking employees earn a reasonable and livable wage. Offering payment plans can lead to increased administrative costs and revenue delays, jeopardizing the financial stability necessary to provide consistent, quality care. Most of the veterinary practices in the United States are considered “no/low” practices – meaning that the average profit for a firmly established, busy practice, is 10% or lower. As a new, small business, we have to continue to strive to beat the odds by securing our financial stability and building a nest egg to be able to continue to maintain/replace equipment, grow our team, ensure wages increase as the cost of living does, and ensure that we will be here and stable for all of your future veterinary care needs.

While we don’t offer in-house payment plans, we recognize the importance of making veterinary care accessible. Many pet owners turn to third-party financing options, such as CareCredit, which offer promotional periods with no interest if the balance is paid in full within a specified timeframe. There are also other third-party financing options like Scratchpay, which is low interest financing specifically for medical services. We encourage you to explore these options to find a payment solution that aligns with your financial situation.

Ultimately, our decision to refrain from offering payment plans stems from a commitment to maintaining the quality and immediacy of care, ensuring the financial health of our clinic, and encouraging responsible financial planning among pet owners. We appreciate your understanding and are here to discuss any concerns or questions you may have regarding payment options or the cost of care.