Companion Animals

Companion Animal Welfare and Insurance Access 2026

Pet insurance access is a critical equity issue affecting animal welfare, with millions of pets unable to access veterinary care due to cost.

Key Facts

An estimated 60% of pet owners cannot afford emergency veterinary care
Pet insurance coverage averages 15% of pet owners in developed countries
Uninsured pets are twice as likely to be euthanised for financial reasons
Community-based veterinary access programs serve low-income pet owners in 200+ US cities
Veterinary payment plan schemes have increased treatment rates by 40% in pilots

Welfare Considerations

Financial barriers to veterinary care cause preventable suffering and death. Expanding insurance access and community veterinary programs is a critical welfare intervention.

What You Can Do

Advocate for pet insurance expansion and affordability schemes
Support community veterinary access programs
Choose veterinary practices that offer payment plans