When veterinarians graduate, they swear an oath and pledge to use their knowledge and skills “for the benefit of society through the protection of animal health and welfare" and "the prevention and relief of animal suffering." They promise to practice conscientiously and with dignity, to adhere to the principles of veterinary medical ethics, and to keep improving their knowledge and competence for life. Veterinary technicians and nurses take a similar oath – dedicating themselves 
"to aiding animals and society by providing excellent care and services for animals, by alleviating animal suffering, and by promoting public health."

These are beautiful and noble pledges. But there is one notable omission – any mention of how the care they pledge to provide gets paid for.

There is no question that a gap exists and where many pet owners and veterinarians find themselves every day. Veterinary medicine can now provide care and services that were unimaginable even a decade ago. Today we have advanced diagnostics, surgical capabilities, specialty care, and different therapies that can extend and improve animals’ lives. That capability comes at a price, and the costs keep rising. For many families, the care their pet needs and the care they can afford do not align.

If you’ve ever stood in an exam room staring at an estimate, you know how painful that moment can be. You may have felt guilt, embarrassment, or anger. Veterinary caregivers feel it, too. The oath they’ve pledged - to relieve suffering - can feel impossible when financial constraints come into play. This is a known contributor to their workplace stress, frustration, burnout, and mental health. They took an oath and made a promise, but cost often becomes an obstacle between that promise and everyone's reality - the pet's, their family's, and the professionals who care for them.

In the coming months we will be hosting a series of conversations about the cost of veterinary care, and we’d like you to be part of it. Whether you’ve declined a treatment, taken on debt, delayed a visit, crowdfunded, found another solution that worked, or simply felt overwhelmed by what came next, your experience matters. We invite you to share your experiences in an informal, non-scientific survey. You can remain anonymous and we will post results of this survey over time. Access the survey