Pet owners 'delaying veterinary treatment' over cost concerns

Vets are seeing increasing numbers of pets with issues that could have been prevented or minimised if treatment had been sought sooner, according to the British Veterinary Association (BVA).

In a survey by the veterinary body, almost all (99%) vets across the UK said they have seen pets in the last 12 months who should have been brought to them for treatment earlier, with an estimated 1 in 5 pets not receiving timely treatment.

When asked about the main reasons for these delays, 91% of vets reported financial reasons as a key factor. More than half of vets (52%) said the number of clients reporting difficulty covering the cost of preventative veterinary care for their animal had increased in the past year. This figure rose to 70% when it came to covering the cost of diagnostic care and treatment.

“Regular vet check-ups and preventative care may seem costly for many families in the current financial climate, but taking steps now rather than later is the best way to catch any health issues early and keep medical costs to a minimum,” said BVA president Malcolm Morley.

“We urge all pet owners to talk to their vet for advice on simple and affordable steps they can take to keep their animals healthy. These include neutering, keeping up to date on vaccinations, daily teeth cleaning, keeping weight in check, and plenty of exercise.”

Morley advised pet owners to speak to their vet “sooner rather than later” if they are struggling to cover the costs, adding: “Vets will always prioritise the welfare of your animal and work closely with clients to make treatment plans tailored to individual circumstances.”

Keeping on top of non-emergency care such as vaccinations and flea treatments can help ensure your pet stays in good health. And with pet insurance from Purely Pets you’ll have ongoing protection to help pay for veterinary treatment if your pet suffers an injury or falls ill.