The COVID-19 pandemic sparked an unprecedented surge in pet ownership, with millions of families welcoming new furry, feathered, and scaled companions into their homes. While this “pandemic pet boom” brought joy to countless households, new research reveals it also placed tremendous strain on an already challenged veterinary care system.
A comprehensive study published in PLOS ONE examined how the dramatic increase in pet ownership during the pandemic affected veterinary care access across communities. The findings highlight significant challenges that continue to impact pet health services today, with important implications for current and future pet owners.
Research Background
Before the pandemic, veterinary care access was already a growing concern in many regions, with veterinary deserts—areas with limited access to veterinary services—affecting both rural and urban communities. The sudden influx of new pet owners during lockdowns created an unprecedented demand for veterinary services just as practices were also dealing with COVID-19 safety protocols and staffing challenges.
This study aimed to quantify the impact of increased pet ownership on veterinary care access and identify the lasting effects on the veterinary care system. Understanding these patterns is crucial for both pet owners navigating care challenges and policymakers working to address veterinary workforce shortages.
Study Details
The researchers conducted a large-scale cross-sectional survey study to examine the relationship between pandemic-era pet ownership increases and veterinary care access. The study methodology included:
- Data Collection: Survey responses from pet owners across multiple regions
- Time Period: Focus on pandemic period (2020-2022) and ongoing effects
- Scope: Analysis of veterinary care access patterns, appointment availability, and service delivery challenges
- Population: Both new pandemic pet owners and established pet owners
The study used multiple data sources to create a comprehensive picture of how the pet ownership surge affected veterinary care systems nationwide.
Key Findings
Primary Results
The research revealed significant strain on veterinary care systems directly linked to the pandemic pet boom:
- Appointment Availability: Wait times for routine veterinary appointments increased dramatically, with some areas experiencing delays of weeks or months
- Emergency Care Impact: Emergency veterinary services faced unprecedented demand, leading to longer wait times and reduced availability
- Geographic Disparities: Rural areas and veterinary deserts experienced disproportionately severe impacts on care access
Secondary Findings
The study also identified several concerning trends that extended beyond immediate care access:
- Preventive Care Delays: Routine wellness exams, vaccinations, and preventive treatments were often postponed due to limited appointment availability
- Cost Implications: Increased demand drove up veterinary care costs in many markets
- Staff Burnout: Veterinary professionals reported higher stress levels and burnout rates during the pandemic period
These findings suggest that the pandemic’s impact on veterinary care extends far beyond temporary inconveniences, creating lasting challenges for the entire pet care ecosystem.
Implications for Pet Owners
What This Means for You
If you’re a pet owner—whether you adopted during the pandemic or have had pets for years—this research has several important implications:
Plan Ahead for Care: With continued strain on veterinary services, scheduling routine care well in advance is more important than ever. Don’t wait until your pet shows signs of illness to seek veterinary attention.
Establish Care Relationships: Building a relationship with a veterinary practice before you need emergency care can help ensure your pet receives timely attention when urgent situations arise.
Consider Preventive Measures: With access challenges ongoing, focusing on preventive care—proper nutrition, regular exercise, dental hygiene, and parasite prevention—becomes even more crucial for maintaining your pet’s health.
When to Consult Your Veterinarian
Given the current challenges in veterinary care access, it’s important to prioritize veterinary visits strategically:
- Never delay emergency care: Signs of distress, injury, or severe illness always warrant immediate veterinary attention
- Schedule routine care early: Book wellness exams, vaccinations, and dental cleanings well in advance
- Prepare for longer wait times: Be patient with veterinary practices dealing with increased demand
- Consider telehealth options: Many practices now offer virtual consultations for certain conditions
Study Limitations
While this research provides valuable insights into pandemic-related veterinary care challenges, several limitations should be considered. The study’s cross-sectional design captures a snapshot in time rather than tracking changes over extended periods. Geographic variations in pandemic impacts and veterinary care infrastructure may not be fully captured in the analysis.
Additionally, the study focused primarily on access issues rather than examining the quality of care provided during this challenging period. Future research tracking longer-term outcomes and recovery patterns would provide additional context for understanding the pandemic’s lasting effects on veterinary care.
Bottom Line
The pandemic pet boom created lasting challenges for veterinary care access that continue to affect pet owners today. Understanding these impacts can help you better navigate the current veterinary care landscape and ensure your pet receives the care they need.
Key takeaways for pet owners:
- Plan veterinary care well in advance, especially for routine services
- Establish relationships with veterinary practices before emergencies arise
- Focus on preventive care to reduce the need for urgent interventions
- Be patient with veterinary practices managing increased demand
- Consider telehealth options when appropriate
The veterinary care system is gradually adapting to increased demand, but the effects of the pandemic pet boom will likely influence pet care access for years to come. By understanding these challenges and planning accordingly, pet owners can help ensure their companions receive the quality care they deserve.
This article summarizes peer-reviewed research for educational purposes. Always consult with your veterinarian for personalized advice about your pet’s health and behavior.