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Average emergency vet costs: what to expect

Emergencies involving your pet are stressful; we’re here to break down the cost and when to seek care.

— Medically reviewed by Dr. Jennifer Schott

Everything we create is factually accurate and biased toward science → meet our team of experts

Updated April 9, 2024

What is an emergency vet?

• Emergency vet care costs

What’s considered a pet emergency?

How to pay for an emergency visit.

• Frequently Asked Questions

The essentials

• Emergencies can be costly, so it’s best to be prepared — Understanding the cost of common emergencies can help you set up or maintain a proper emergency fund for your pet.
• There are several ways to finance emergency care for your pet — These include pet insurance , setting up a savings account, or even financing through a company like Care Credit.
• If you’re not sure that your pet needs emergency care, consider telehealth first — Speak to a professional over the phone or online first. It can save you time and money when assessing your pet’s condition.

As a pet parent, you know that illnesses, accidents, and injuries can happen in the blink of an eye. Getting your pet the help and care they need is going to be your priority. But this can come with some hefty bills.

On average, an emergency exam costs $100-$200, and an overnight stay can cost $1,000-$2,000. And, this may or may not include diagnostic tests. To help make sure you’re as prepared as possible, we’ve put together some information to help you know what to expect and how to save for a rainy day proactively.

Emergency veterinarians specialize in treating acute or life-threatening injuries and illnesses in animals. These vets typically work within veterinary hospitals or emergency clinics but often consult with general practice veterinarians. 

In some locations, the general practice vet, when working after business hours or on holidays, qualifies as the emergency vet.

Traditionally, emergency veterinary care costs more.

• Advanced training and skills. These vets are trained in a variety of ways to be able to tackle any emergency that comes their way, from cancer and car accidents to poisonings. 
• Additional treatments and diagnostics. Many facilities have an intensive care unit (ICU) with oxygen cages and advanced medical equipment, including CT scans and MRIs, that may not be found in a traditional vet’s office.
• Location. The cost of caring for your pet can depend on where you bring them for care. Regardless, your pet should be cared for by board-certified veterinarians who specialize in different areas of veterinary medicine.
• Specialty. If your pet needs to see a specialist in an emergency, such as a cardiologist or oncologist, the cost of care will be greater than if they were seeing a general practice emergency vet.
• Working off hours. These vets and their staff sometimes work nights and holidays. As such, they tend to be paid more than those who work during normal business hours. Plus, operating a facility 24/7 costs more.

The cost of an emergency vet versus a regular vet

The cost of an emergency vet visit varies due to several factors, like location, animal species, breed, size, and the emergency. 

So,  how much is an emergency vet visit? Let’s break down the general cost of treatment.

• Blood work: $80-$250
• Exam: $100-$200
• Standard imaging: $150-$600
• Pain medicine: $40-$80
• Hospitalization: $800-$2,500
• IV fluids: $60-$95
• Emergency surgery: $1,500-$5,000+

We know how scary pet emergencies can be and the difficulty a pet owner may have in determining what constitutes an emergency and what can wait. It’s best to be cautious and seek professional medical help via a telehealth consultation or an emergency vet clinic visit. 

However, these are just a few of the signs that your pet should be taken to a vet immediately.

• Gastroenteritis . Inflammation of the gastrointestinal tract can present as vomiting, diarrhea, and low-grade fever. 
• Poisoning. There’s no one symptom you can use to diagnose poisoning in pets. Clinical signs tend to differ depending on the type of toxin, but it often triggers gastrointestinal and neurological symptoms.
• Seizures. These can present as whole-body tremors or partial seizures that may only affect one part of the body or present as a sudden onset of rhythmic movements (tremors) or actions.
• Eye injury. Pus, excessive discharge, cloudiness, bleeding, and excessive eye rubbing can all be signs of an eye issue. 
• Bite wounds/animal attacks. If your pet gets into a scuffle with another pet or animal, seek treatment immediately. 
• Bloat of the belly . An enlarged belly can have several causes, including Gastric Dilatation-Volvulus.
• Severe trauma. This can be classified as any major accident like a fall, a car accident, being hit, etc. 
• Trouble during birth. If your pregnant dog hasn’t given birth to a pup 2-3 hours after their water has broken, if they’re straining during birth, or if your dog has been in second-stage labor for over 12 hours, seek help . 
• Broken bones. X-rays will be needed to diagnose a fractured bone, but your pet will likely limp or refrain from putting weight on the affected area. 
• Hypothermia. This can occur because of extended exposure to cold environments and can present as shaking, lethargy, and lower body temperature. 
• Heatstroke . This occurs when your pets’ natural cooling mechanisms can’t keep them cool and, if left unattended, can cause permanent damage.
• Difficulty breathing. If your pet is experiencing labored breathing or gasping, seek care.

When your pet has an emergency, you will likely need to make a payment or a credit card deposit for them to receive care. The staff at the emergency room should be able to help you navigate your options, but here are some of the most common ways to pay for your pet’s treatment.

Invest in a pet insurance policy

Pet insurance is a growing category, and many mainstream insurance companies are starting to offer it. Like the health insurance you have, there are different plans, but you can expect to pay a monthly or annual premium as well as a deductible. 

The amount of your deductible and the reimbursement you’ll receive can vary between plans and the insurance company you choose. So, you may want to do some research before purchasing to ensure you understand what and how much the plan covers. 

It’s important to purchase pet insurance early on in pet ownership because any pre-existing condition may not be covered. Lemonade is a great option that caters to your needs.

Build an emergency fund

If you don’t want to pay the premiums associated with health insurance or your pup isn’t eligible to be covered for any reason, you may consider building an emergency fund and adding to it regularly. 

Emergencies (and even routine medical needs like dental cleanings) can be costly. Preparing for whatever life throws at you will prevent you from having to make big decisions based on the funds available.

Consider financing options, like Care Credit

  Care Credit is a financing option that will allow you to pay off the balance from your pet’s care over time. This way, the vet’s office will have the funds needed to cover your pet’s emergency care and you won’t be facing a huge mountain of debt all at once. 

However, you must qualify for Care Credit based on your credit score. If you qualify, you will be approved for a certain amount of money which you will need to pay off in a certain time to avoid a high interest rate.

Work out a payment plan

Some veterinary practices may allow you to pay a deposit for your pet’s emergency care, and then pay the remaining balance over time. This is becoming less common as many veterinary offices face clients who skip out on payments. If you don’t pay your bill, then the veterinary hospital will likely send you to collections.

No matter how conscientious you are as a pet owner, emergency vet visits can happen so it’s best to be as prepared as you can. Having a plan in place will help you to feel calm and in control while your pet is getting the best medical care possible. Remember that the medical staff is doing the best they can to help your pet be kind and patient with them.

Frequently asked questions

How much does it cost to get a dog’s stomach pumped.

If your dog has consumed a toxin, poison, or item that they’re allergic to, vets will try to induce vomiting to get the substance out of their system. If that doesn’t work, and all options are exhausted, a gastric lavage may be the best way to help them. 

These procedures require traditional routine diagnostics, blood work, x-rays, and more,  as well as the anesthetic and oxygen therapy used during the procedure. While the exact cost for you will depend on several factors, you can expect to pay $1,500-2,500. 

How much does a vet visit cost near me?

Veterinary costs will vary depending on your location and the number of vet practices in the area. Plus, your pet’s size, breed, and health needs will also play into the final cost you owe. 

How much does it cost for a dog to get stitches?

The type of stitch that your dog receives will ultimately determine the cost. Traditional sutures and dissolving sutures tend to be of similar cost, whereas staples may cost less. However, you must also pay for an exam fee, anesthetic, the procedure and bandage material, and any follow-ups. In total, this could be anywhere from $800-1,000+. 

How often should a dog go to the vet?

This all depends on your dog’s age and health! Puppies need to see the vet once a month until they are 4-5 months old. Adult dogs (1-7 years) usually only need to go once for annual visits (depending on your pet’s overall health), and senior dogs (8+ years) should be seen twice a year.

Is it cheaper to go to an emergency vet than a regular vet for a sick pet?

More often than not, emergency vet visits may cost more simply due to the urgency of the situation that brings you there. While the cost can be slightly higher, the important thing is getting your dog care as soon as you can. Emergency facilities are there exactly for that reason.

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Average Cost Of Emergency Vet Visits

Taking your pet to an emergency vet is similar to how we go to an ER or urgent care clinic.

Usually you will take your pet to an animal hospital when your regular vet is closed or the health of your pet is beyond what your local vet can handle.

Emergency veterinary clinics are usually open 24/7 and always have a qualified ER veterinarian on staff.

Emergency veterinary clinics are also there to handle crisis situations that your regular veterinarian may not have the capacity to take care of in their specific clinic setting.

For instance, various medical conditions require pets to be hospitalized overnight with care from veterinary nurses, and some general practice veterinary clinics just do not have the capacity to provide that service.

General Costs of Going To An Emergency Vet

Depending on the reason you are having to take your pet to the emergency vet clinic, the costs can vary drastically.

An emergency surgery is going to cost a lot more than an ER visit for a torn toenail.

The cost also may vary based off of the size of your pet, as larger dogs will need more medications and fluids, thus making their ER visit cost more than the cost for a small dog or cat.

The chart below provides a general breakdown of broad categories of diagnostics & treatments your pet may need at an emergency veterinary clinic.

These cost will range depending on where you live in the USA, how many vets are in your area and the time of care.

As you can see the prices will range depending on the type of treatment.

The list above may not be what you pay for services in your area.

The prices are averages based on the type of treatment being offered.

Other costs not mentioned would be, medications, follow up appointments, other office fees.

For example, a dog that was hit by a car will need multiple follow up appointments which will increase the overall cost of their bill.

How To Pay Your Emergency Vet Bill

After your pet is examined and a plan is set forth to determine what diagnostics and/or treatments they need, the veterinary staff will provide you with an estimated bill.

This may vary location to location, but most emergency clinics require that you pay half your estimated bill up front and the remainder when you take your pet home.

When you take your pet home depends on the severity of their condition.

For example, if your dog was hit by a car, they may require multiple surgeries, follow up care, bandage replacement, oxygen, medications, etc.

These costs will add up over time. The emergency vet clinic will require payment for most services up front before you take your dog home.

Having a large estimated bill can be initially overwhelming for sure.

Top Two Ways To Pay For Your Emergency Vet Bill

Pawp – a new way to pay for unexpected vet bills.

For those looking for ways to pay for their emergency vet bill, Pawp is a newer idea that is similar to insurance but is different.

Unlike pet insurance, Pawp covers up to 6 pets in your home and allows you access to $3,000 for emergency medical care.

What attracts people to Pawp is their price of just $24/month for all of the benefits listed above.

They offer virtual care, where you can chat with a licensed veterinarian – this alone can save a bit of money by not having to bring your pet to a local vet every time.

Care Credit – Veterinary Financing

Almost all emergency clinics take “ Care Credit-Veterinary Financing ”, which can help you pay your emergency bill owed to them without having to take it all out of pocket immediately.

Care Credit is essentially a pet healthcare credit card. You can apply for it online even while you are waiting at the clinic.

Once you are approved, Care Credit pays everything up front and you pay Care Credit back over the course of a few months, usually interest free.

This can help ease the burden of having to pay a large bill all at once.

Once approved for Care Credit you can use this new form of payment for all future vet costs.

Don’t Hesitate To Ask For Help With Your Bill

Emergency clinics that are looking out for you and your pet’s best interests.

They can be a great place to get life saving treatment when your regular vet is closed.

When your primary veterinarian opens, they may suggest transferring care to them which may help save in costs.

If you are struggling with paying your vet bill , you can ask for discounts or see if they can help with the costs of some of the procedures.

Depending on the emergency vet, you might be able to get a discount of 30-50% off your bill.

No matter what you will have to pay that bill before leaving, whether you put it on credit card, care credit, Pawp, or have family/friends help.

It might seem like some clinics, especially emergency veterinary clinics are out to take your money.

This is more often not the case and they just want to help you and your pet.

It may be tempting to try to wait things out and avoid taking your pet to an ER clinic, but if you are concerned about your pet’s condition it is always best to have them evaluated.

If you are not sure if it is an emergency , you can always call your nearest emergency clinic and tell them what is going on with your pet.

They can help guide you in the right direction on if you should go ahead and take them in or if it is something that can wait until the next day.

When To Contact An Emergency Vet

Just like an ER for people, our pets have a similar option to get immediate help and that is an Emergency Vet or Animal Hospital.

The cost of going to one of these facilities will be more than if you went to your local veterinarian.

Most general vet practices will have you go to an emergency vet for life threatening illnesses or injuries.

Some veterinarians are not equipped or can handle certain injuries, so if you are in need of immediate help it is always best to contact your veterinarian before bringing your pet to them.

An emergency is an injury or illness that cannot wait to be dealt with, such as:

• Your dog has bloody diarrhea
• Your dog is vomiting black
• Your dog has parvo
• Your dog was hit by a vehicle
• Any major trauma (broken bone, major cuts)
• Your dog is bleeding
• Dog chewed a chicken bone
• Your dog is breathing fast (can’t catch breath)

Leslie Brooks graduated from the University of Tennessee College of Veterinary Medicine in 2012. After graduation she moved to Indianapolis to do an intensive one-year internship at a specialty practice and then began working as a small animal general practitioner. She ran her own house call practice for three years, visiting pets in people’s homes. Currently, she works part time in clinical practice and volunteering her free time to serve pets of the homeless. Read more about us here .

There are 4 comments:

Glad to find this article! We have just experienced a heart breaking loss with our 2.5 year old Pointer. My husband and I were out of town when our dog fell very ill. A family member took him to the Emergency Vet Hospital. He was in complete kidney and liver failure due to a toxin of some sort. We still don’t fully understand. The Vet counseled on the phone and then we spoke with a technician who gave us a breakdown of the cost of treatment with no guarantees that it would save him. It was going to cost several thousand dollars for IV therapy, antibiotics and pain meds with hospitalization. My question is, should pet owners of high risk dogs who tend to eat and drink anything in sight take out Pet Insurance? Does the insurance pay off in case of emergency situations?

Late reply but yes insurance is worth it in emergency cases and especially if your dog eats everything. We have a lab that eats everything and he has had an intestinal blockage and might have one now. He eats socks, twigs, hair bands- you name it he’ll eat it. Insurance also reimburses for regular vet visits too.

Thank you. This was very helpful.

Hi Barbara, thank you! Just keep in mind that the average emergency vet bill will range depending on where you live. Kind of like health insurance or even car insurance. You can’t really quote a price that will work for the entire USA. If your pet ends up in an animal hospital just know that you have options on how to pay that bill.

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How much does an emergency vet cost? Make sure you're prepared for the cost of care

Emergency vet costs can soon mount up. Find out how much you might need should the worst happen

When your pet is in a crisis and you’re rushing to the emergency clinic, you shouldn’t have to dedicate mental time or energy to wondering, “how much does an emergency vet cost?” Instead, your mental energy needs to be focused on your pet, so you can drive safely, provide the veterinary team with the information they need to begin their workup, and make rational decisions as needed. 

Many pets experience a veterinary emergency at some time in their life and, unfortunately, emergency veterinary care is often expensive. Even if you have purchased the best pet insurance , you will likely still be responsible for paying veterinary expenses up front until your insurance can reimburse you. Therefore, it’s important to plan ahead. 

Emergency veterinarians treat pets when their regular veterinarian’s office is closed (on nights, weekends, or holidays). They treat conditions ranging from mild (such as a hot spot on the skin) to life-threatening trauma (such as a dog that has been hit by a car). On a holiday weekend, an emergency vet may even see everyday cases, like ear infections , that are not life-threatening but should not go days without care. Make sure you talk to your vet about their emergency protocols in advance, so you know who you need to contact and where you should take your pet if an emergency arises or your pet needs care when your veterinarian’s office is closed.

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Common pet emergencies

One of the common conditions seen by emergency vets is gastroenteritis, or vomiting and diarrhea. In some cases, the pet may have relatively mild signs; a dog may have had just a few episodes of diarrhea, but its owner wants to know how to help a dog with diarrhoea before the dog’s condition worsens or before the carpet in their home is ruined. In other cases, however, the pet is very ill and may require more aggressive treatment. A dog that is dehydrated after several days of vomiting and diarrhea will need a full medical workup to determine the underlying cause of the illness, plus hospitalization and intravenous (IV) fluids.

Emergency vets also treat trauma and injuries. These cases may range from pad abrasions, to fractures, to severe trauma such as dog fights or being hit by a car.. Many of these cases will need surgery, but some can be stabilized in hospital over the weekend or even sent home with painkillers. 

Other potential causes of emergency clinic visits include sudden weakness or collapse, seizures or other neurologic issues, breathing difficulties, and toxin ingestion. These conditions vary significantly in their workup and treatment, but an emergency veterinarian is prepared to handle any of these cases. 

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The cost of emergency veterinary care 

The cost of a veterinary emergency visit varies, depending on a number of factors, including the day, time, location, type of disease or condition, size of your dog, and the experience and equipment of the treating veterinarian. 

Your vet will first perform a thorough physical exam on your pet. Don’t be surprised if they seem to avoid or ignore the problem at first – they need to ensure your pet is stable and that nothing else is wrong. In many cases, the veterinarian may listen to your pet’s heart and lungs and check their mucous membrane color before focusing on the part of the body that is related to your pet’s presenting complaint. 

Based on the exam findings, the veterinarian will then recommend appropriate diagnostic tests and treatments. Some pets may require only medication, while others will require a comprehensive workup and hospitalization. Obviously, a more involved workup or more invasive treatments will be accompanied with a higher cost. Once your veterinarian has put together a treatment plan for your pet, the costs of these services will be reviewed with you and you can decide whether or not to authorize the recommended services.

According to PetPlan pet insurance, the average cost of a veterinary emergency is $800 to $1,500 . Keep in mind, however, that this is just an average. This estimate is also several years old, and veterinary costs (like other costs) have likely increased since the time this study was performed. Some emergency clinic visits, such as a straightforward case of acute diarrhea, may cost just $200-300 for an exam and medications. If your pet is hit by a car and requires emergency surgery followed by hospitalization, however, your costs may easily climb to $5,000 or more. Therefore, the costs of emergency care are rarely easy to predict. 

Preparing for emergencies is an important aspect of responsible pet ownership. Hopefully, your pet will live a happy, healthy life and you will never find yourself dealing with a serious veterinary emergency. If an emergency does occur and you’re prepared, however, you will be in a much better position to authorize high-quality veterinary care. There is nothing we vets dislike more than knowing there’s something that can be done, but the money isn’t there to allow us to do the work.

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Pet insurance reimburses the cost of emergency care

One popular option for managing the cost of emergency care is pet insurance. In some ways, pet insurance works like human health insurance. You pay a monthly premium in exchange for coverage of a certain percentage of your pet’s medical expenses. You will have a deductible or ‘excess’; expenses will not be eligible for coverage until you exceed this deductible. For some insurance plans this excess is barely more than the cost of the initial consultation, meaning you may find that all further tests and treatments are covered.

Pet insurance usually works by reimbursing you for the cost of the treatment once you’ve submitted the claim. That means that you’ll still have to have access to a sum of money for the vet bill, but only temporarily. If this is likely to be a problem, talk to your vet about whether they accept ‘direct claims’ from any pet insurance providers. This means the cost of the visit will be kept on your account and your vet will claim from the insurer directly, so you aren’t out of pocket. Not all vets and not all insurers will work together on this, so you might have to do some hunting around! Alternatively, you could use a credit card or CareCredit® to fund your pet’s care until you are reimbursed by your insurance company. 

 What does pet insurance cover? 

Pet insurance primarily exists to cover illnesses and injuries. However, there are a few exceptions. Both pre-existing conditions and hereditary conditions are often excluded from pet insurance coverage.

Pre-existing conditions are conditions that were diagnosed before you purchased the insurance policy. For example, if your dog was diagnosed with luxating patellas before you purchased the policy, your insurance policy will likely never cover any treatment related to your pet’s knees. If your pet has had a history of repeated urinary tract infections , your insurance provider may refuse to cover any future urinary issues.

Hereditary conditions are conditions that are genetic, or contained in the DNA. These conditions are inherited through a pet’s parents. Examples of genetic conditions include hip dysplasia, tracheal collapse, and third eyelid prolapse (or “cherry eye”). Many pet insurance companies exclude hereditary conditions from coverage, even if they develop after the policy is purchased. 

Many pet insurers also do not cover any costs associated with breeding. So, if you plan to breed your dog and she ends up needing an emergency C-section, most insurers won’t cover this. If she develops mastitis after delivering the puppies, this is also unlikely to be covered by pet insurance.

If you purchase pet insurance, it’s important to read through your policy carefully. Pay careful attention to your financial responsibilities and what is and is not covered by the policy. This can prevent a lot of headaches and frustration! In general, however, pet insurance is a great option to help defray costs associated with emergency veterinary care. We’d also recommend you find out how to get cheaper pet insurance as there are few steps you can take to limit the cost. However, take care shopping around – any symptoms your dog has had with the old insurer can be ‘pre-existing conditions’ with the new insurer!

What if you don’t have pet insurance?

When a pet emergency occurs and you don’t have pet insurance, your options are more limited. Hopefully, you have savings or a credit card available to handle the veterinary bill. If you are a pet owner who has elected not to purchase pet insurance, you should start building a veterinary emergency fund from an early age. Knowing that the average cost of an emergency is over $1,000, you might set a goal to have $2,000 saved by the time your dog reaches 2 years old. Assuming you obtain your puppy when they are four months old, saving just $100 a month would ensure that you are well-equipped to handle an emergency by the time your dog is two years old. If you can afford to save more on a monthly basis, you can likely reach your goal even sooner (or set a higher savings goal). Don’t use this fund for routine veterinary care like vaccines or parasite preventatives; instead, leave this fund alone and use it only in the case of an emergency. 

If you do not have available savings or a credit card on hand, many emergency veterinarians in the US offer credit through a company known as CareCredit®. CareCredit® is a credit card designed specifically for medical and veterinary expenses. You can apply online or via telephone and receive a decision within minutes. If you’re approved, there is often a period of interest-free financing available, which may be up to two years. After this interest-free period ends, the interest rate will increase significantly, to a rate that is comparable to a typical credit card. 

If you live elsewhere or are unable to get approved for CareCredit®, consider reaching out to friends and family for help. Some clients use GoFundMe® to reach out to friends, family, and social media contacts. Non-profit foundations are also sometimes available to help fund pets’ veterinary care, but working with a non-profit is not always logistically feasible in an emergency situation. Most emergency clinics will require at least an initial deposit before beginning treatment, so you will need to have funds available in a short timeframe. 

Remember, talk to your vet about your finances and budget – we can’t help if we don’t know what you can and can’t afford. It may be that we can offer a second-best option that’s significantly cheaper. Your vet may also know where else you can go for financial help.

Hope for the best, prepare for the worst

 While we all hope that we will never have to deal with emergency vet costs, the reality is that emergencies happen. There’s a decent chance that you experience at least one or two emergency visits over your pet’s lifetime. Plan ahead and have financial resources in place for emergencies, whether that is a pet insurance plan, a well-funded pet savings account, or accessible credit. Having the ability to pay for emergencies will ensure that your veterinarian can provide your pet with the best possible care. 

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Dr. Barnette is a graduate of the University of Florida, where she received both her B.S. in Zoology and her Doctor of Veterinary Medicine (DVM). She has 15 years of clinical experience as a small animal veterinarian, treating dogs, cats, and occasional exotic patients. She now works as a freelance veterinary writer, creating educational content for veterinarians, veterinary team members, and dedicated pet owners. Dr. Barnette lives in southwest Florida with her husband and daughter (plus two cats, a dog, and a rescued dove!) and enjoys kayaking, biking, and hiking. Learn more about Dr. Barnette at www.linkedin.com/in/catherinebarnette .

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How Much Does an Emergency Vet Visit Cost? (and How to Pay for It)

Jessica Foster  | Oct 16, 2023

Emergency vet visits: the unexpected roller coaster ride of pet parenthood.

We've all been there – one minute, your cat is reenacting Olympic gymnastics on your curtains, or your dog has mistaken a bee for a chew toy, and the next, you're caught in a whirlwind of worry, Google searches, and financial stress.

But fear not, intrepid pet parents. You have options when it comes to covering hefty emergency vet bills.

In this article, we’ll be diving into the average costs of emergency vet visits – plus, how to pay for them.

From unexpected splurges to sneaky ways to save, we’ll break down the dollars and cents of those unplanned pet predicaments, ensuring your four-legged companion receives the care they deserve while saving you money.

Common Types of Pet Emergencies

But first, what is a pet emergency?

There are many situations that might warrant a trip to the emergency vet . These can range from sudden injuries to serious medical conditions. If your pet is experiencing any one of these conditions, it may be time to take them to the emergency vet clinic:

• Trauma and accidents: This includes sudden trauma such as being hit by a car, taking a long fall, getting attacked by another animal, breaking a bone, severe burns, etc.
• Respiratory distress: If your pet is having difficulty breathing, is choking on an object, or is having an allergic reaction leading to respiratory issues, take them to the emergency vet immediately.
• Gastrointestinal issues: Ingestion of toxic substances or swallowing foreign objects (e.g., toys, bones) can lead to severe gastrointestinal issues.
• Cardiovascular emergencies: If you notice that your pet is having a rapid or irregular heart rate, appears to be in shock, or has collapsed/fainted, this warrants an emergency vet visit.
• Neurological emergencies: Signs of a neurological emergency may include seizures or convulsions, sudden disorientation, inability to walk, and/or head trauma.
• Poisoning: Consumption of poisonous plants, chemicals, or toxic foods (e.g., chocolate, grapes, onions) may require a visit to the emergency vet.
• Severe allergic reactions: Swelling of the face, eyes, or throat and difficulty breathing may all be signs of a severe allergic reaction.
• Persistent vomiting or diarrhea: If your pet has persistent vomiting or diarrhea, or bloody or black stools, it may be time to take them to the emergency vet.

Other examples of pet emergencies

There are other types of pet emergencies that can occur, though this list is far from exhaustive. If your pet is acting unusual, appears to have a serious injury, or is unresponsive, take them to the emergency vet immediately.

• Heatstroke or hypothermia: e.g. overheating in hot weather or exposure to extreme cold
• Reproductive emergencies: e.g. birthing complications, dystocia (difficult or obstructed labour)
• Urinary emergencies: Urinary blockages in cats, urinary tract infections, blood in urine
• Eye injuries: e.g. eye infection, trauma to the eye, corneal ulcers
• Lacerations and wounds: e.g. deep cuts or punctures, excessive bleeding
• Sudden lethargy or weakness: e.g. unexplained weakness or inability to stand, sudden loss of energy
• Severe pain: e.g. crying out in pain, reluctance to move or be touched
• Severe dental issues: e.g. broken teeth, infections in the mouth

How Much Does an Emergency Vet Visit Cost?

Generally, emergency vet visits can range from a few hundred dollars to several thousand dollars , depending on the severity of the condition, the required treatments, and the area in which you're located.

Here's a breakdown of potential emergency types, along with average cost ranges for each. US prices have been converted to Canadian dollars.

Please note that these are general estimates and actual costs can vary significantly. Also, these estimates do not account for aftercare, follow-up visits, medication costs, or potential complications that may arise during or after treatment.

Factors Affecting Emergency Vet Costs

As stated, the table above reflects the estimated average costs for different types of vet emergencies. It’s always best to contact emergency vet services in your area to get a more accurate estimate of veterinary costs for your pet.

Here are some factors that can affect how much you will pay for an emergency vet visit:

• Type of emergency
• Severity of condition
• Diagnostic tests needed
• Required treatment procedure
• Whether hospitalization is needed
• Medications
• Specialist consultations
• Location of the vet clinic
• Time of day
• Equipment required
• Type of facility
• Size and type of pet
• Unforeseen complications
• Anesthesia or sedation
• Follow-up care required

How to Pay for Your Emergency Vet Bill

Dealing with an unexpected pet emergency can be stressful. Not only are you worrying about your pet’s health, you may be anxious about facing a massive emergency vet bill.

Fortunately, you have several options when it comes to covering emergency vet costs. While some situations may require you to pay out of pocket, it’s always worth it to do your research and learn about various payment options.

Here’s how to pay for an emergency vet bill, including several cost-saving options:

Step 1: Assess the situation

Before panicking about an emergency vet bill, slow down and try to assess the situation.

Evaluate the severity of the emergency and determine if immediate veterinary care is necessary. Is your pet facing a life-threatening situation? Or, is this a condition that can be remedied through a regular vet visit?

If it is an emergency, seek emergency veterinary care right away. If you are not sure, call your local veterinarian for their expert opinion.

Step 2: Contact your veterinarian

Once you’ve determined your pet is facing a medical emergency, call your veterinarian or an emergency animal hospital to inform them about the situation. They can provide guidance on when and how to bring your pet in for treatment.

If possible, ask the vet for an estimated cost of the emergency treatment based on the information you provided. Keep in mind that they may not be able to provide an estimate until they evaluate your pet in person.

Step 3: Evaluate payment options

Most veterinary clinics and hospitals will inform you of the various payment options available. Sometimes, they may even provide payment assistance programs to pet parents in need.

Here are a few common payment methods for covering emergency vet bills:

• Cash, debit, or credit card: If you have the funds available, paying with cash, a debit card, or a credit card is a straightforward option.
• Pet insurance: Check your pet insurance policy to see if the emergency is covered. Contact your insurance provider to understand the reimbursement process and coverage limits.
• CareCredit: You may wish to consider applying for a medical credit card that offers special financing options for veterinary expenses such as CareCredit ™*. Review terms, interest rates, and repayment options to ensure this is right for you.
• Payment plans: Inquire if the veterinary clinic offers payment plans to spread out the cost over time. Ask them about any associated fees or interest.
• Crowdfunding: If needed, you can explore crowdfunding platforms like GoFundMe ™* to seek financial assistance from friends, family, or people on social media.
• Personal loans: Evaluate the option of taking out a personal loan from a bank or credit union. Understand the interest rates and repayment terms.
• Veterinary payment assistance programs: Research charitable organizations that provide financial assistance for pet emergency expenses. Ask your vet about eligibility and application requirements.
• Family and friends: Consider reaching out to family members or friends who might be willing to help financially. A little help can go a long way.
• Negotiation with the veterinary clinic: Depending on the situation and clinic policies, you might be able to negotiate a payment plan or discuss options for reducing costs. However, this may not always be possible.

Once you’ve evaluated the available payment options and have the estimated cost of treatment, it’s time to make an informed decision on how to proceed with your pet's care. If needed, discuss your concerns with the veterinarian or their staff. They may be able to provide helpful advice or assistance.

Step 4: Keep records

No matter what payment option(s) you choose, always keep a record of your emergency vet payments. Save copies of all communications, estimates, receipts, and payments. These records may be needed for future reference and potential pet insurance claims.

Step 5: Plan for the future

Once the emergency is resolved, take time to review how the situation was handled and explore ways to prepare for future pet emergencies.

This may include signing up for pet insurance, which can help you cover the costs of unexpected pet illnesses, surgeries , and other types of emergencies in the future. Furkin Pet Insurance helps pet owners cover up to 80% of eligible expenses, providing the care pets need and the cost savings you deserve.

How to Prepare for and Reduce Emergency Vet Costs

You can’t always anticipate a pet emergency, but there are steps you can take now to prepare for the future. By investing in your pet’s health, signing up for pet insurance, and creating a wellness budget, you can help prevent the occurrence and costs of a pet emergency.

Here are a few tips for how to prevent, prepare for, and/or reduce emergency vet costs:

Do your best to prevent pet emergencies

Reducing emergency vet bills involves proactive pet care, preventive measures, and knowing how to respond to potential health issues. Prevention is one of the best ways to avoid costly emergency vet bills.

Here are some strategies to help you minimize the likelihood of emergencies and manage costs:

• Maintain regular veterinary care: Schedule regular check-ups and vaccinations for your pet. Preventive care can catch health issues early, saving you from potential emergencies down the line.
• Keep up a healthy lifestyle: Provide your pet with a balanced diet, regular exercise, and mental stimulation. A healthy lifestyle can prevent obesity and reduce the risk of certain health problems.
• Pet-proof your home: Remove hazards and toxic substances from your home to prevent accidents and poisoning. Keep harmful plants, chemicals, and small objects out of reach.
• Supervise your pet: Supervise your pet during outdoor activities and walks to prevent accidents and altercations with other animals. Use a leash and harness to prevent them from wandering off, eating toxic materials, etc.
• Spay or neuter your pet: Spaying or neutering your pet can reduce the risk of certain health issues, such as certain cancers and reproductive emergencies.
• Keep up with dental care: Maintain good oral hygiene to prevent dental issues. These can lead to serious health problems if left untreated.
• Use parasite prevention: Use flea, tick, and heartworm preventives as recommended by your veterinarian to reduce the risk of parasitic infections.
• Learn pet first aid: Learn how to respond to minor injuries or illnesses to prevent the need for immediate vet visits.
• Microchip your pet: Microchip your pet to increase the chances of a safe return in case they get lost.
• Take pet safety classes: Attend pet safety and first aid classes to learn about, prevent, and prepare for pet emergencies.

Create a pet emergency budget

Building a pet emergency budget is another way to prepare for future vet bills. However, this is not foolproof, as you can’t always estimate the cost of emergency vet bills. For example, if you chose to save $50 a month, after two years you would have saved just $1200, yet many unexpected veterinary expenses can far exceed that amount saved. This also assumes you never had to tap into the “pet savings fund” for other unexpected expenses such as home or car repairs. Subscribing to comprehensive pet insurance is the best way to cover your pet’s needs and prepare for unexpected vet costs.

That said, having some money saved up could help you pay your deductible or cover out-of-pocket expenses before you’re reimbursed by your pet insurance company.

Here are some tips for creating a pet emergency budget:

• Consider establishing a separate bank account for pet emergency savings. Alternatively, you can stow away cash in a safe place, like a safe or piggy bank.
• Research and add up the average costs of common emergency situations and treatments in your area. This can include things like X-rays, bloodwork, wound treatment, and surgical procedures. Look at both minor and major emergencies to get a better idea of the potential range of expenses.
• Factor in your pet’s current health. If your pet has any pre-existing conditions or is prone to certain health issues, you might want to save more in anticipation of potential emergency care related to those conditions.
• If you have pet insurance, consider the deductible amount. Your emergency fund should ideally cover the deductible in case you need to file a claim.
• Assess your monthly budget and determine how much you can comfortably set aside for your pet's emergency fund. It's better to save a smaller amount consistently over time than to not save at all.

Sign up for Pet Health Insurance

Signing up for pet health insurance is one of the best ways to reduce the out-of-pocket costs for an emergency vet visit. At Furkin, you could get up to 80% of your total vet expenses covered during a pet emergency.

Furkin Pet Insurance helps ensure that your furry companions receive the necessary medical care they need during an emergency, without overwhelming you with emergency vet costs. Furkin's pet insurance coverage offers financial protection against many emergency situations, including unexpected accidents, illnesses, and injuries.

With quick reimbursement and flexible plans tailored to individual needs, Furkin Pet Insurance provides a safety net that allows you to focus on providing the best care for your pet!

Research your options

Worried that you can’t afford your emergency vet bill? You have options .

While we’ve already covered some common payment options (like payment plans, personal loans, or crowdfunding), there are a couple of alternative options to consider. We always recommend doing your research to look for programs, wellness plans, and discounts in your area or online.

Here are a few creative ways to cover emergency vet expenses:

• Plan a community fundraiser: Organize a community fundraiser or crowdfunding campaign to raise funds for your pet's emergency expenses. Engaging friends, family, neighbours, and local pet lovers can help spread the word and attract support.
• Check out pet-assistance charities: Research and reach out to pet-assistance charities, foundations, or nonprofit organizations in your area or online. Some organizations offer grants or financial assistance to pet owners in need.
• Barter or trade services: If you have skills or services that can be bartered or traded, consider offering your services in exchange for assistance with your pet's emergency bills. This could include pet-sitting, dog walking, or other services.
• Research local pet clubs: Check if there are local pet clubs, organizations, or associations that offer support for pet owners during emergencies. They might have resources or contacts that can help.
• Visit veterinary school clinics: Veterinary schools often have teaching clinics where students, under supervision, provide veterinary care at reduced costs. This could be an option for more affordable emergency care.
• Join an online pet community: Join online pet communities and forums where pet owners share experiences and advice. These communities might have resources or ideas for covering emergency costs.

Save Money with Emergency Pet Insurance

And there you have it, dear pet parent – a crash course in the realm of emergency vet visit costs. From weathering pet emergencies to wrangling those unexpected bills, you're now equipped with the resources you need to prioritize your pet’s health without burdening your pocketbook.

But before we wrap up, let's not forget our secret weapon in this budget battle: pet insurance.

With Furkin emergency pet insurance by your side, those unpredictable pet predicaments can become a lot more manageable. We cover a range of pet emergencies, from trauma and injuries, or allergies and illnesses. So go forth, pet parent, with the savvy savings tactics and handy sidekick of Furkin insurance. Because when it comes to your pet's health and your wallet's well-being, there's no adventure too wild to conquer.

*Furkin is not affiliated with CareCredit or GoFundMe and does not endorse or recommend these products.

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Up to $20,000 in annual coverage

Up to 80% of your vet fees covered

3 deductible options to choose from

You and your pet can bounce back from an accident or illness with our really simple coverage.

If you’ve looked at pet insurance coverage before, but didn’t bite – it’s time to get some Furkin Pet Insurance!

Pet Emergency Statistics and Veterinary Costs

Accidents happen – it's true, but they don't always have to. We're sharing the statistics and rough cost ranges of some of the more common pet emergencies below because, for many pet owners, costs are a large factor in the amount and type of care their pets are able to receive.

Prevention isn't always  possible, but it often is – and it's often as simple as having prior awareness and taking simple precautions. The goal of Preventive Vet is to help save cats' and dogs' lives, so have a look here and then browse around the rest of the site to find articles and resources that can help you keep your pets healthy, happy, and safe.

Pet Emergency Statistics

Vomiting and diarrhea.

Nationwide, vomiting and diarrhea are routinely among the top 10 reasons that pets are brought to the veterinarian for emergency evaluation and treatment.

These are in fact just the outward signs of any number of potential underlying problems – including irritation or obstruction of a pet's intestinal tract, ingestion of a poisonous substance, dysfunction of one or more internal organs, and a variety of others. Many of the most common causes of vomiting and diarrhea in pets can be easily prevented. 

There are no official statistics kept on the subject, but based on the frequency with which they are seen in emergency rooms across the country, it is safe to assume that there are tens, if not hundreds, of thousands of cats and dogs injured or killed in road traffic accidents each year in this country.

Equally as important are the accidents that unleashed dogs and outdoor cats cause each year, many of which result in significant injury or even death to people.

Life expectancy of cats

Several sources estimate that the life expectancy of an outdoor cat is only 2–5 years. By contrast, the life expectancy of an indoor-only cat is nearer 12–18 years (even up to 20 years!). Amongst other things, cats that go outdoors unobserved are at greater risk of eating or licking up something poisonous (e.g., antifreeze, lilies, rat and mouse poisons, and others), and they're at greater risk of getting into a fight with a dog, wildlife, or another cat, and they're at risk of being hit by a car. 

Antifreeze toxicity

The Humane Society Legislative Fund estimates that over 10,000 dogs and cats die each year from exposure to antifreeze containing ethylene glycol.

This harmful substance can be found in lower and less harmful concentrations in windshield de-icing fluids, motor oils, hydraulic brake fluid, paints, solvents, wood stains, etc. One lick (0.64 ml/lb) of this highly poisonous substance can be enough to cause irreversible kidney failure and death in a cat. Severe acute kidney failure can occur in dogs that consume 1 tablespoon.

Pet toxicities

The ASPCA's Animal Poison Control Center, the pioneer in pet poison control, has handled over 4 million cases since its beginnings in 1945. In 2021, there was a 22% increase in call volumes and they received over 401,550 calls related to pet exposures to toxic substances. Many of these calls were related to common household products that are likely present in your pet's environment right now.

In 2019 the ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center helped over 232,000 animals.

These were the top 10 pet toxins reported:

• Over-the-counter medications such as painkillers (ibuprofen, Tylenol®), joint rubs, and herbal supplements were 19.7 % of cases (about 45,704)
• Human prescriptions (heart, thyroid, ADHD, and antidepressant medications) were 17.2 % of cases (about 39,904)
• Food ( xylitol , grapes , raisins, onions , garlic, and protein bars) was 12.1% of cases (about 28,072)
• Chocolate was 10.1% of cases related to sweet treats. Per day, it averages greater than 67 cases
• Veterinary-related products accounted for 9.3% of cases (about 21,576)
• Household items were 7.7% of the cases (about 17,864)
• Rodenticides were 6.8 % of cases (about15,776). These cases increased in 2019 from prior years. 
• Plants were 6.1% of cases (about 14,152). These cases have moved up in order and often involve cats and lily exposure .
• Insecticides were 5.1% of cases (about 11,832). These cases have dropped due to the fact that there are safer alternatives and homeowners have better handling and safety protocols in place.
• Garden products (fertilizer, soil enhancements, herbicides, etc.) continue to remain on the top ten list at 2.4 % of the cases (about 5,568).

Pet Emergency Veterinary Costs

ER exam: ~ $100 – $200

IV catheter: ~ $60 – $75

IV fluids (per bag): ~ $60 – $95

Blood tests (basic): ~$80 – $200

Urine tests (basic): ~$40 – $70

X-ray (basic): ~$150 – $250

Ultrasound: ~ $300 – $600

Blood pressure measurement: ~ $25 – $75

Pain medication: ~ $40 – $80

Oxygen Therapy: ~ $500 – $3,000

Wound treatment and repair: ~ $800 – $2,500

Emergency surgery (bloat, foreign body, hit by care, caesarian): ~ $1,500 – $5,000

Hospitalization and monitoring:

1–2 days (vomiting, diarrhea, seizures cases): ~ $600 – 1,700

3–5 days (parvo, blocked cat, kidney failure): ~ $1,500 – $3,500

Accidents & Emergencies Happen

Pet accidents and other emergencies are common when their people are out of town. So whenever traveling without your pets, always make sure to leave them in the care and close supervision of a responsible person or company. And always be sure to fill out and leave behind a Treatment Authorization Form , so your pets can get the medical care they need in the event of an unforeseen problem when you can't be reached. When filling in the section of the form with the amount that you authorize the pet sitter or caregiver to approve in your absence, please take into account the rough minimal costs of some of the typical emergency evaluations and procedures as listed above, as well as the following common emergencies.

Approximate emergency veterinary treatment ranges

Vomiting, diarrhea, and gastrointestinal:.

Food bloat: $500 – $1,000+

Gastric Dilatation and Volvulus (GDV): $2,000 – $7,500+

Gastroenteritis: $750 – $3,000+

Intestinal obstruction with surgery: $3,000 – $4,000+

Pancreatitis: $2,000 – $5,000+

Toxin Ingestion:

Antifreeze: $2,000 – $6,000+

Chocolate: $250 – $2,000+

Grapes & Raisins: $2,000 – $5,000+

Human antidepressant medications: $1,500 – $2,500+

Human pain medications: $250 – $2,000+

Lilies (cats only): $1,000 – $4,000+

Rat and mouse poison: $750 – $4,000+

Slug bait: $1,500 – $4,000+

Xylitol: $750 – $4,000+

Cat bite abscess: $300 – $1,500+

Dog bite wounds: $1,000 – $10,000+

Electrical cord shock: $500 – $3,000+

Heatstroke: $1,500 – $6,000+

High-rise fall: $500 – $6,000+

Hit by car: $250 – $8,000+

Urinary Issues:

Urinary tract obstruction: $1,500 – $3,000+

Uterus & Birthing Issues:

Birthing difficulties (caesarian section): $1,500 – $3,500+

Uterine infection (pyometra): $1,000 – $3,000+

• Dog Health & Care
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• Vet Approved

How Much Does an Emergency Vet Cost for Dogs? 2024 Price Update

Image Credit: RossHelen, Shutterstock

Last Updated on April 12, 2024 by Dogster Team

VET APPROVED

REVIEWED & FACT-CHECKED BY

Dr. Tabitha Henson

DVM (Veterinarian)

The information is current and up-to-date in accordance with the latest veterinarian research.

Your dog may become sick or injured when your vet clinic is closed and when this happens, you will have to rush your dog to an emergency vet clinic.

Beyond the worry and fear of this kind of visit, sometimes the price is a factor. How much a visit to an emergency vet clinic costs depends on several factors. But as a general overview, the average cost of an emergency vet could be anywhere from $250 to as much as $8,000. Here, we get into what these are and provide you with a range of possible prices that you can expect to pay under those circumstances.

• The Importance of Your Dog’s Health

We all want our pets to be in good health for their entire lives, but accidents and health conditions can happen unexpectedly. Several conditions can lead you to bring your dog to an emergency vet clinic, including:

• Injuries and trauma (possible broken bones, deep gashes, burns, etc.)
• Gastroenteritis (diarrhea, vomiting)
• Neurological disorders (seizures)
• Weakness and collapse
• Difficulties breathing
• The ingestion of toxins
• Extreme lethargy
• Significant bleeding
• Straining to urinate or blood in urine

Of course, this list is not exhaustive, and there are times when you will need to figure out when it’s a real emergency . If you’re unsure if your dog requires a vet’s help, call ahead to the emergency clinic, and the staff can help you decide if it’s necessary to bring your dog in. You also have the advantage of giving them advance notice that you’re coming.

• How Much Does an Emergency Vet Visit Cost?

How much a visit to an emergency vet will cost depends on numerous details, including the time, day, location, size of your dog, the clinic itself, and what condition or injury your dog has.

The vet will typically start with a thorough physical exam of your dog to determine if there are any other underlying issues beyond what you brought them in for.

This could be followed by the vet recommending treatments and further diagnostic tests, which might include running bloodwork or a urinalysis, X-rays, ultrasounds, surgery, etc. In most cases, your dog might only need medication, but in some circumstances, a stay at the clinic and extensive workup might be in order.

The average cost of an emergency vet could be anywhere from $250 to as much as $8,000.

The following chart should help break down these costs.

Remember that these costs are just general estimates and averages. With so many varying factors, it’s difficult to precisely pinpoint what you’ll end up paying.

However, even the estimated prices are impressive. If you have a desire to save money during an emergency for your dog, it doesn’t make you a bad owner. It shows that you want to anticipate such situations and save your nerves.

Being a pet parent is not only about fun games and cuddling with your dog. It is also about being responsible and making decisions about what’s best for your pooch and you.

Therefore, the sooner you start thinking about pet alternative insurance and how to act in emergencies, the less stressful such a case will be for you.

• Additional Costs to Anticipate

Beyond the visit, treatment, and any diagnostic tests, there are a few additional expenses that you might need to pay.

Any medications that your vet prescribes for your dog—oral medications or even topical treatments—will need to be paid for separately.

There’s the possibility of equipment, particularly after surgery, such as e-collars and vests, so your pup doesn’t chew and lick the wound.

You’ll potentially need to bring your dog back to the clinic for follow-up appointments, particularly if your dog was physically injured. There’s also the chance of you needing other specialty items, depending on your dog’s condition, such as prescription dog food.

• How Can I Afford an Emergency?

There are a few steps that you can take to help you afford an emergency situation.

• Talk to the Vet

First of all, let the vet know about your finances. This way, they can find less expensive alternatives that where possible, won’t compromise your dog’s health. This can also include asking for generic rather than brand-name prescriptions and filling them at your own pharmacy.

• Specialized Credit Cards

There are specialized credit cards that you can consider. It enables you to pay for your dog’s and your own medical needs. You’ll just need to make sure the emergency clinic and your regular vet will accept the card.

• Plan a Budget

Consider setting up a savings account meant for any dog medical emergencies. You can create a new account and make a point of adding money every week or month.

If you put about $100 in the account every month when your dog is a puppy, by the time, they’re 2 years old, you might have saved up around $2,000. Only use this money for actual emergencies, rather than routine visits. This way, you’re saving money that could end up saving your dog’s life.

• Virtual Vet

If your dog isn’t exhibiting emergency symptoms but you feel as though you can’t wait for an appointment in a few days, you can try speaking to a virtual veterinarian. This could be done by phone or through video.

For example, if you suspect that your dog has an ear infection, this isn’t exactly an emergency (at least not in the early stages), and a virtual vet can prescribe you the appropriate medication. This can help save you money.

There’s also pet insurance.

• Does Pet Insurance Cover Emergency Clinic Visits?

It depends on the insurance company. Some will cover emergencies but not if your dog has a pre-existing condition (although this is usually if your dog already had a health condition before you started coverage).

Typically, you pay anywhere from $10 to $100, but the average tends to be $30 to $50 every month. Some policies might cover a large chunk of the bills, up to 90% for many, and they all cover unexpected costs (except for those pre-existing conditions). In most cases, you will pay the bill yourself and then send the bill and vet records to the insurance company, and they will reimburse you, so you’ll still need to have the money initially for the vet bill.

Just be sure to read everything and figure out which company and which plan will work best for you and your dog. How much you pay every month will also depend on the size, age, breed, and sex of your dog.

• See Also:  What Are the Vet Costs for Dog Eye Infection & Eye Surgery?

• How Can You Avoid Emergency Vet Visits?

It will help if you take your dog to your regular vet for wellness checkups annually. If you’re consistent with these visits, your vet can sometimes catch an encroaching health condition before it becomes an emergency. Also, some insurance companies will cover part of these annual visits.

You should also always plan ahead for any potential emergencies. If you’re unable to make it home because of bad weather (blizzards, icy roads, etc.), ensure that a trusted neighbor, family member, or friend has a key to your place so they can take care of your dog in your absence. If you lose power, take your dog with you if you go to a hotel.

However, it can sometimes prove difficult to prevent all emergencies for pets. Accidents happen — you can’t keep an eye on your dog every minute, and they can be fast! Plus, health conditions can occur even in the healthiest of animals.

As long as you feed your dog high-quality food, ensure that they have constant access to clean and fresh water, and visit the vet once a year, you’re taking good care of your pup. You should also give them plenty of love, exercise, and playtime.

While paying a chunk of money every month might not necessarily fit into your budget, it’s probably worth it in the long run. This way, if something disastrous does happen to your pup, you won’t be forced to decide between treatment that you can’t afford and keeping your dog for a few more years.

So many aspects of these scenarios do depend on your dog’s situation, so spend the time looking at the best pet insurance companies and trying out the free quotes. It just might be worth it.

Related dog reads:

• What to Give a Dog for an Upset Stomach — 10 Great Options
• Braces for Dogs — Effectiveness and Costs
• My Dog’s Stomach Is Hard, What Should I Do?
• https://emergencyvetsusa.com/average-cost-of-emergency-vet-visits/

Featured Image Credit: RossHelen, Shutterstock

About the Author

Kathryn Copeland

Kathryn was a librarian in a previous lifetime and is currently a writer about all things pets. When she was a kid, she hoped to work in a zoo or with wildlife in some way, thanks to her love for animals. Unfortunately, she's not strong in the sciences, so she fills her days with researching and writing about all kinds of animals and spends time playing with her adorable but terribly naughty tabby cat, Bella. Kathryn is hoping to add to her family in the near future – maybe another cat or two and a dog.

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How Much Does a Vet Visit Cost? Here's Everything You Need To Know

When you’re ready to adopt a pet, you may not always be thinking about their future veterinary costs. But it’s important to consider vet fees when working out your budget for caring for your pet over the next several years.

Not only will your pet need food, grooming, toys, and other supplies, but they’ll need to go to the vet at least once per year. You may also need to pay for emergency services if your pet gets hurt or sick, and those can add additional strain to your budget.

But how much does it cost to go to the vet ? Unfortunately, the answer is: “it depends.” While most regular vet services can cost $100 or less, some procedures and treatments can cost thousands.

As a pet rescue and foster who works with a pet rescue nonprofit in Brooklyn, I've seen my fair share of veterinary bills - ranging from low-cost "mom-and-pop" practices to higher-end practices with state-of-the-art diagnostics and surgeons.

Here, I’ll break down what you can expect when taking your pet to the vet:

• The basic costs involved in a vet visit
• Standard veterinary expenses
• How pet type can influence the costs of a vet visit
• How breed can influence vet costs
• What to expect from a visit to the vet
• Potential fees associated with emergency vet visits
• How to cover veterinary costs without depleting your savings
• Key Takeaways
• Frequently Asked Questions

The Basic Cost of a Vet Visit

According to the American Veterinary Medical Association (AVMA), the price of veterinary services has been rising steadily since the turn of the millennium. In 2016, the Veterinary Services Price Index was outpacing the Consumer Price Index by more than 25 percentage points .

Pet ownership is increasing, and the costs of veterinary care are also on the rise.

Veterinary care is in much higher demand than it ever was, in part because pet owners are treating their pets differently. In one study, 95% of pet parents consider their pets a part of their family. People are spending more on their pets, and they’re more willing to bring them to the vet for regular checkups.

A Breakdown of Standard Veterinary Expenses

Vet expenses vary widely depending on what services your veterinarian is providing. Veterinary practices charge for services like physical exams, diagnostic services, lab work, surgical procedures, anesthesia, hospitalization, and even overnight boarding.

Many of these services can be covered by pet insurance , which would reimburse a percentage of your out of pocket expenditures after you pay your vet.

An appointment for surgery will cost much more than a wellness visit, and regular treatments, such as those for cancer, can add up to a considerable sum over time. Here are some of the most common veterinary services and how much they typically cost.

Tests, Examinations, and Initial Vet Costs:

• Routine checkups: $50 to $250
• Spay/neuter: $160 to $220
• Vaccines per shot: $15 to $28
• Physical exams: $45 to $55
• Fecal exam: $25 to $45
• Heartworm test: $45 to $50
• Dental cleaning : $70 to $400
• Allergy testing: $195 to $300
• Geriatric screening: $85 to $110

Surgeries and Unexpected Vet Costs*:

• Bloodwork: $80 to $200
• X-rays : $150 to $250
• Ultrasounds: $300 to $600
• Short hospitalizations: $600 to $1,700
• Long hospitalizations: $1,500 to $3,500
• Wound treatment: $800 to $2,500
• Emergency surgery: $1,500 to $5000
• Oxygen therapy: $500 to $3000

(*Based on estimates by Emergency Vets USA )

Again, these prices may vary depending on where you live, what type of animal you have, what breed you have, and their health history. Even a routine exam fee can vary state-by-state. According to the ASPCA , recurring medical expenses for a dog can range from $210 to $260 depending on their size.

The good news is that you can lower the costs of these services significantly with pet insurance . For example, if you have a pet insurance plan that reimburses you for 90% of covered costs, that $5,000 emergency surgery could end up costing you just $500 out of pocket.

Pet insurance lowers out-of-pocket vet costs.

Plans can reimburse 60-100% of eligible expenses.

Average Vet Costs for the First Year of Owning a Dog or Cat

The APSCA estimates that the first year of owning a dog can cost as much as $2,000 or more , depending on the size of the animal. Meanwhile, the cost of owning a cat can cost up to $1,174 on average.

However, these costs are assuming you’ll only need to bring your pet in for regular visits and won’t have any unexpected charges on your vet bill. If a regular visit costs about $250 and you bring a new dog to the vet only once, the rest of your spending can go to supplies like food, toys, and treats.

If your pet needs some of the unexpected services listed above because they develop an illness or need additional tests, you could end up paying substantially more out of pocket if you don’t have pet insurance.

How Pet Type Can Influence the Costs of a Vet Visit

It’s difficult to nail down the costs of vet care because veterinary medicine differs depending on the type of pet you own. Caring for a smaller animal like a cat or rabbit is generally much less expensive than caring for a large or medium-sized dog — or a horse, for that matter.

Today’s pets are also living longer than ever thanks to advances in medical care and better pet diets. If you have an older pet , you can expect to have higher veterinary costs because pets tend to need more care as they age. Older pets should get regular veterinary examinations so your vet can check for problems.

AVMA notes that “while it’s easy to spot the outward signs of aging such as graying haircoat and slower pace, it’s important to remember a pet’s organ systems are also changing. An older pet is more likely to develop diseases such as heart, kidney and liver disease, cancer, or arthritis. Dogs get cancer at roughly the same rate as humans, while cats have a somewhat lower rate.”

Other factors that can influence veterinary costs are your pet’s weight, health history, and temperament . For example, if your dog is overly aggressive when you bring them to the vet, you may need to give them medication to keep them calm and muzzle them. In some cases, the vet may need to sedate your pet so they can examine them, which can add to your costs.

How Breed Affects Veterinary Costs

The breed of your pet also impacts veterinary costs. When discussing breed, we’re generally discussing dogs.

There are over 190 recognized dog breeds in the United States and only 42 cat breeds. This is partially due to the history of dog breeding and how dogs were used as herders, hunters, and other types of working animals in the past. Still, some cat breeds do have fewer health issues than others.

Many pet insurance plans cover breed-specific issues. If you have a pet breed that tends to have certain conditions, investing in pet insurance could help significantly if those conditions arise.

Some common breed-specific conditions include the following:

• Bladder stones
• Brachiocephalic syndrome (due to narrow nasal passage)
• Ear infections
• Hip dysplasia
• Knee and elbow dislocations
• Slipped discs

If you’re unsure about your pet’s breed-specific conditions, ask your veterinarian about what you can expect.

What to Expect From a Visit to the Vet

A typical visit to the veterinarian can cost as little as $50 depending on the pet being examined and their needs. But, as we mentioned before, those costs can go up if your pet has an unexpected illness or if they need other types of routine care.

Your First Visit

On your pet’s first visit, your veterinarian will conduct a general health screening and wellness exam. They’ll enter your pet’s information into their records. You can expect them to do the following:

• Weigh your pet
• Listen to their heart and lungs
• Take their temperature
• Check their ears, eyes, and genitalia
• Examine their teeth and mouth
• Examine their feces (you may need to bring a sample)
• Give your pet vaccinations (if necessary)
• Test for common diseases (if necessary)
• Determine your pet’s vaccination schedule

The Wellness Exam

Similar to an initial health screening, a wellness exam determines the overall health of your pet. Your regular veterinarian will do a physical examination of your pet, but they’ll also ask you questions about your pet’s behavior, diet, and lifestyle patterns.

A basic vet visit might cost $50, but expenses quickly add up with illnesses and injuries.

For example, it’s normal for dogs to curl up and sleep throughout the day, but if your dog is acting particularly lethargic, this could be a symptom of an underlying condition. Your vet would need to know about this behavior.

Similarly, even the healthiest cats will vomit from time to time . But if they are vomiting often — more than once or twice per week — it could indicate a health condition. This is why it’s important to be completely open about your pet’s behavior with your vet .

Once your veterinarian has assessed the wellness of your pet, they’ll discuss preventative steps you can take to avoid problems. They may recommend you use preventive treatments for fleas, ticks, intestinal parasites, and heartworm. They’ll go over your pet’s nutrition needs, weight management, what pet food you should use, dental care, and more.

Scheduling Routine Check-Ups

Most veterinarians recommend you bring your pet to them at least once per year, but preferably more. Unfortunately, some pet parents bring their pets to the vet less often.

According to a study by the AVMA , about 8% of pet parents don’t bring their pets in for routine checkups once per year. Still, 51% bring them in once per year and the remaining 41% bring them even more often.

Over 50% of pet owners took their pet to the vet for a routine checkup at least one time in the previous year.

A routine check-up will typically involve a physical examination, a wellness check, and vaccine booster shots, if necessary. If you want to be reimbursed for this kind of routine care, you'll need a wellness plan .

Unexpected Veterinary Costs

If your veterinarian discovers anything out of the ordinary during your pet’s first visit or a subsequent wellness exam, they may wish to do additional tests to determine what’s wrong with your pet.

Generally, veterinarians will only do additional testing if they need to narrow down the possibilities of your pet’s condition to make an accurate diagnosis. Don’t hesitate to ask about the costs of testing beforehand . Once your veterinarian is confident in their diagnosis, they’ll discuss plans for treatment with you.

If your pet is sick or injured, you’ll have to pay some unexpected veterinary costs. This is where pet insurance is essential . Depending on the severity of your pet’s condition, you could have to pay thousands of dollars out of pocket to treat your pet.

If your pet needs life-saving care, they may be admitted to an animal hospital overnight. You’ll need to pay for the boarding of your pet, for any tests conducted to determine what’s wrong, as well as for treatment to make your pet better.

Pet insurance coverage means you only have to pay for a fraction of what you’d normally owe in vet bills.

Health Issues & Vet Costs to be Aware of

• Dog Teeth Cleaning
• Kennel Cough
• Heartworm Disease
• Lyme Disease
• Leptospirosis
• Dog X-Ray Costs

Potential Fees Associated with Emergency Vet Visits

An emergency visit occurs when your pet needs immediate or life-saving care and they can’t wait until regular business hours for an appointment. Thankfully, many veterinary clinics and animal hospitals provide out-of-hours veterinary care for emergencies. If you’re a new pet owner, you should identify your nearest emergency clinic just in case.

If your pet has an emergency, contact your veterinary emergency services provider immediately and speak to the person on-duty. They’ll give you advice over the phone, or they’ll suggest you bring your pet in for treatment.

After your pet is examined, the emergency care vet will discuss whether they need to do additional tests or whether you can move on to treatment. It’s at this point that your costs will begin to go up.

Emergency veterinary fees are typically higher than fees associated with regular care. According to Preventive Vet , a typical emergency visit may involve the following fees:

• ER exam: $75 - $125
• IV catheter: $60 - $75
• IV fluids : $50 - $75
• Blood tests (basic): $75 - $150
• Urine tests (basic): $25 - $50
• X-rays (basic): $75 - $250
• Blood pressure measurement: $25 - $75
• Pain medication: $40 - $80
• Hospitalization / Vet Tech Monitoring: $50 - $200

TOTAL: $475 - $1,080

This is not including any additional costs for treatment, which is dependent on your pet’s condition. This is why the costs of emergency veterinary care vary so much. It’s also the reason financing options and pet insurance are so important during emergencies.

How To Cover Veterinary Costs Without Depleting Your Savings

Clearly, comparing pet insurance options is a must. With a comprehensive pet insurance plan, you won’t have to worry about choosing between your pet’s emergency care and breaking your bank. Good coverage ensures you can get them the care they need right when they need it and gain peace of mind in knowing your prepared for an emergency ( even for rescue pets ).

However, pet health insurance works differently than human health insurance . Most pet insurance providers pay you, the policy holder, instead of the practice or doctor. That means you don't have to worry about find a veterinarian who's "in-network", you can go to any vet you please and get reimbursed just the same - but that also means that you will generally have to pay the cost upfront while you wait for your reimbursement.

Ideally, you should pay for the upfront vet cost on a credit card with a good rewards incentive. For example, if your credit card offer 3% cash back on purchases, by using that card to pay the initial bill you'll be effectively reducing the cost by 3%. Then, in just a few days your pet insurance provider will reimburse you for the bill and you can pay off that credit charge with the reimbursement.

For example, let's pretend you have a policy with 90% reimbursement and a $250 deductible...

Your vet bill is $1237, you put it on your credit card which give 3% cash back. Your plan reimbursed you for 90% of the cost after the deductible is met. In this case, let's say it's the first vet cost of the year so your $250 deductible is not yet met. Eight days after paying your vet bill your pet insurance provider reimburses you $888.30 (or ($1237 - $250)*0.9).

Your total cost would then be: $1237 - $888.30 - (3% back on $1237) = $311.59

That's a massive savings. And, if another issue arises your deductible is already paid for that year so you'll simply be reimbursed 90% (or what ever your policy indicates) on your next bill.

For example, vet bill #1 cost $1237 but it only cost you $311, then vet bill #2 comes in for $600 but it only costs you $42! Since your deductible was paid for in vet bill #1, you'll be reimbursed 90% of the full vet bill #2 plus 3% back on the initial bill (if you used a credit card with that reward rate)... $600 - 90% (or $540) - 3% (or $18) = $42.

This way, your bank account goes untouched and your savings are maximized.

Just make sure you get the right pet insurance policy at the best price, no matter the provider .

Do you want to find the best pet insurance?

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.css-3sl4ml{color:#E26C33;-webkit-text-decoration:none;text-decoration:none;}.css-3sl4ml:hover{color:#E26C33;-webkit-text-decoration:underline;text-decoration:underline;} Edwin Plotts .css-aqd080{font-size:16px;font-weight:bold;}@media screen and (min-width: 992px){.css-aqd080{font-size:21px;}} Director of Marketing & Foster/Rescue Parent - Pawlicy Advisor

Edwin Plotts rescues and rehomes cats in Savannah, GA - while leading Pawlicy Advisor 's brand growth. He's a pet parent of two rescued sibling cats: Greyson and Babs. He's also an avid volunteer with Flatbush Cats and The Toby Project.

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How Much Does a Vet Visit Cost? (2024)

The average cost of a routine vet checkup can range from $50 to $250, but the total cost varies based on the purpose of the visit..

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As Insurify’s home and pet insurance editor, Danny also specializes in auto insurance. His goal is to help consumers navigate the complex world of insurance buying.

Updated November 6, 2023 | Reading time: 4 minutes

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Table of contents

• Cost of a vet visit
• Common procedures
• Vaccinations for dogs
• Vaccinations for cats
• Emergency vet visits
• Coverage options
• Buying insurance

Table of contents Compare quotes

When you take your pet to the vet, the final bill might come as a surprise. While the cost of a vet visit varies based on the procedures and services your pet needs, veterinary care costs have increased sharply in recent years. [1]

A big reason for the higher costs is that demand for veterinary care is at an all-time high. Additionally, the costs of running a veterinary practice have risen, partially due to inflationary pressures. [1] In short, pet owners are facing a perfect storm with spiking vet bills as the end result.

Here’s what you should know about the costs you should expect to encounter if your pet needs to go to the veterinarian.

How much does a routine vet visit cost?

In general, dog owners face higher veterinary bills than cat owners. On average, the ASPCA estimates that dog owners pay $225 per year for routine medical costs, which include things like vaccines and wellness visits. In contrast, cat owners pay around $160 for routine medical care. [2]

As a pet owner, where you live can also affect your costs. For example, the estimated cost of an office visit at Banfield Pet Hospital is $78.95 in California, but that estimate drops to $57.95 in Florida. [3]

Costs of common veterinary procedures

Taking your pet to the vet for preventative care can help ensure it avoids health issues for years to come. But preventative care isn’t free. If you choose to invest in your pet’s health, you’ll likely face some or all of the following routine care costs. [4]

Cost of vaccinations for dogs

Vaccinations can help your pet stay healthy. In many cases, your vet will administer your dog’s vaccines during routine vet visits. The type and number of vaccines your dog needs can have a major effect on your final bill. 

The table below highlights some common vaccinations your dog might receive and their costs. [4]

Cost of vaccinations for cats

Cat owners can help keep their companions healthy through vaccinations. Keeping your pet’s shots up to date often happens at the annual visit. The following table shows some common vaccinations your cat might need and the associated costs.

How much do emergency vet visits cost?

Regular checkups and routine care can help you protect your pet’s health. But even pets with the best care could end up in the emergency room. An emergency vet visit is often significantly more expensive than a routine visit. The exact costs of your emergency room visit will vary based on the treatments your pet needs. [4]

Below is a quick look at some potential medical costs for an emergency visit:

An ER exam could cost between $100 and $200.

A broken bone could cost $2,371 for dogs and $2,257 for cats.

A foreign object in your pet’s stomach could require veterinary care that runs $3,262 for dogs and $2,955 for cats.

Blood tests during an emergency vet visit could cost between $80 and $200.

An ultrasound at the vet could run between $300 and $600.

X-rays at the vet could cost between $150 and $250. [5]

If you have to head to the vet for emergency care, be prepared for a hefty vet bill.

How does pet insurance affect vet costs?

Pet insurance can help you cover the costs of a vet visit. Most pet insurance companies offer three basic types of coverage:

Accident and illness coverage: Accident and illness coverage can help you pay for things like broken bones and infections. This type of coverage typically doesn’t include medical expenses for hereditary conditions or routine care.

Accident-only coverage: Accident-only coverage is a more narrow form of insurance. It can help you pay for vet visits related to broken bones, cuts, bite wounds, and foreign body ingestion. But it won’t help pay for treating an illness, dental care, or basic vaccines.

Wellness coverage : In general, a wellness plan can help you pay for vaccines, preventative medicine, a physical exam, and additional costs for routine care.

If you choose to purchase pet insurance, your insurance company will likely have a reimbursement policy. You’ll typically submit a claim for your vet bill after your vet visit, and if the company approves the claim, you’ll receive the agreed-upon percentage of the vet bill.

Pet insurance can be a good idea for the right household, but it’s important to run the numbers before deciding to move forward.

Factors to consider when buying pet insurance

If you’re interested in purchasing pet insurance, it’s important to consider all the details before signing up for a policy. Below are some factors to keep in mind:

Shopping around

Every insurance company has a slightly different method of determining premiums. Because of that, shopping around can help you find the best policy .

Reimbursements

Most pet insurance companies cover your vet bills through a reimbursement policy. You’ll need to pay the bill up front. When you submit a claim, you’ll receive a reimbursement for an agreed-upon percentage of the bill.

Payout limits

Some pet insurance policies have annual or lifetime payout limits.

Deductibles

The deductible is the minimum amount you’ll need to pay for a covered vet visit. Make sure it’s a number you can comfortably afford.

Coverage type

The type of coverage you purchase will greatly affect what kind of vet bills your policy will cover. Read the fine print to understand what’s covered.

Puppies are often cheaper to insure than older pets. However, older pets are more likely to need vet care due to age-related health problems. Weigh the policy costs against the potential veterinary costs.

Vet cost FAQs

Vet costs can be a significant expense for pet owners across the country. With rising costs, it’s natural to have questions. The answers below may help as you decide whether to enroll your pet in a pet insurance plan.

On average, pet owners can expect to pay between $50 and $250 for a routine visit. However, the final bill will vary based on the type of care your pet needs.

Why do vets charge so much?

The cost of veterinary care has risen sharply in the last five years. A core reason for higher costs is that veterinary practices are facing inflationary pressure, which means they must charge more for their services. Additionally, the demand for pet care is high, which also pushes costs higher.

Do vet offices offer payment plans?

Some vets offer payment plans to pet owners. If you need a payment plan option, ask your vet to see what’s available.

Is pet insurance worth it?

If you don’t have a robust emergency fund to cover unexpected veterinary care, pet insurance might be worth the price. But even households with savings might benefit from a pet insurance plan. You should consider your pet’s health and your financial situation to determine if the premiums are worth the coverage.

• National Library of Medicine . " Blame the pandemic: Why you need to raise your fees for 2021 ."
• American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals . " Cutting Pet Care Costs ."
• Banfield Pet Hospital . " Price Estimator ."
• Care Credit . " Average Vet Visit Costs for Pets ."
• Preventive Vet . " Pet Emergency Statistics and Veterinary Costs ."

Sarah Sharkey is a personal finance writer who enjoys helping people make savvy financial decisions. She covered insurance and personal finance topics. You can find her work on Business Insider, Money Under 30, Rocket Mortgage, Bankrate, and more. Connect with her on LinkedIn .

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How Much Does a Vet Visit Cost?

Average veterinary pricing by procedure.

When your dog, cat, or other pet needs to see the vet, there are a variety of factors that can impact the total price of your final bill. Below, we'll explore some of the common reasons your pet may need to see a veterinarian, as well as the average costs for routine checkups or specialty treatments and procedures.

When to Take Your Pet to the Vet

Your pet may need to see a vet for many different reasons, and how much it costs depends on the type of vet visit. Common reasons to take a pet to the vet include:

• • Routine checkups : Routine  veterinary exams  are similar to human physicals. They're meant to help keep your pet healthy by assessing their overall wellness, treat any ongoing conditions, and follow up on any concerns you may have.
• • Vaccinations : You may have to set up a series of appointments to make sure your pet gets the properly scheduled vaccination shots to help prevent conditions like rabies and Bordetella.
• • Illness : Maybe your pet isn't drinking much water, or they're throwing up. You'll want to take them in for a sick visit, where your vet will check their baseline health and may recommend running some tests to figure out what's going on.
• • Emergencies : There may be a time that you're pet needs immediate medical attention, which means an emergency vet visit. Emergency visits can mean the difference between life and death, and you can expect that the  cost of an emergency vet visit  will be higher due to specialized equipment and treatments. 1
• • Surgical/Specialty visits : You may need to see a specialist to set up surgical procedures like  spaying or neutering ,  dental extractions , fracture repairs,  foreign object removal , or  cancer -related surgery or  chemotherapy treatment .

National Average Cost for a Vet Visit

The national average cost for a routine vet visit is between $25-$186. 2  During a routine veterinary appointment, your vet will perform a physical exam to assess your pet's health. The vet will likely check for:

• • Vitals : heart rate, breathing, temperature, weight
• • Signs of infection : ears, eyes, nose, mouth
• • Parasites : coat and skin

Average vet visit cost by state*

* To see all the states click here .

Routine Veterinary Exam Costs by Procedure

A routine veterinary exam is a good time to discuss any concerns you may have about your pet's health and to get preventive treatment for common health issues.

Dog and Cat Vaccine Pricing Info

On average, vaccinations for dogs and cats will cost between $20-$60, and can help protect them from catching serious diseases, like rabies. 4

Vaccination cost for dogs

Here are the average costs of some common vaccinations your dog may need:

Vaccination cost for cats

Here are the average costs of some common vaccinations your cat may need:

Veterinary Tests and Diagnostic Costs

You'll want to set up a special appointment with your vet if you think your pet is sick ( or worse ). For example, the following are symptoms your pet may exhibit which could require further evaluation, tests, and diagnosis from your veterinarian: 6

• • Increased thirst
• • Changes in appetite
• • Increased urination
• • Lethargy or tiredness
• • Panting
• • Coughing or sneezing
• • Weight gain or loss
• • Body odor
• • Breathing rate
• • Whining
• • Coat or skin changes
• • Behavior changes

If your pet is exhibiting signs of an illness, your vet will likely want to run some tests to help determine what's going on. They may require things like blood tests, X-rays, or fecal exams. 3

Once your vet has the results, they will provide a course of treatment to address the cause of your pet's symptoms and hopefully help your fur baby feel better.

Below is the average cost of diagnosing and treating some common health problems your pet may experience.

Emergency Vet Care Costs

An emergency veterinarian visit is an unscheduled trip to the vet to get help for your pet in an urgent or critical situation. There are many reasons you might need to take a pet to see an emergency veterinarian, such as: 8

• • Trauma : Bite wounds, electrical shock or being hit by a car
• • Toxins : When you know you're pet has consumed foods or chemicals that are poisonous, like antifreeze, human medications, chocolate, insecticides, certain plants and other toxic substances a visit to the emergency vet may be needed.

The price of an emergency vet visit will depend on the situation, but you can anticipate that it will be  more expensive  than a routine visit due to specialized care and testing. Below are the costs for initial assessment, stabilization, and treatment.

Surgery and Specialty Treatment Costs

If your pet has an underlying condition, or something is discovered as a result of testing during a wellness check, your vet may recommend specialized treatment. The cost of these treatments ranges widely depending on the type of care needed and the type of animal.

We've outlined some common treatments and average associated costs below:

Average Vet Visit Cost by State (Continued)

The information, opinions and recommendations expressed in the article are for informational purposes only. Information has been obtained from sources generally believed to be reliable. However, because of the possibility of human or mechanical error by our sources, or any other, Synchrony and any of its affiliates, including CareCredit, (collectively, “Synchrony") does not provide any warranty as to the accuracy, adequacy, or completeness of any information for its intended purpose or any results obtained from the use of such information. The data presented in the article was current as of the time of writing. Please consult with your individual advisors with respect to any information presented.

© 2023 Synchrony Bank.

1  Lee, Justine. “When to Bring Your Pet to the ER Vet,"Animal Emergency and Referral Center. Accessed January 20, 2023. Retrieved from:  https://aercmn.com/when-to-bring-your-pet-to-the-er-vet/

2  Average Pet Wellness Check Study by State, Conducted by ASQ 360 °  on behalf of CareCredit, August 2023.

3  Plotts, Edwin. “How Much Does a Vet Visit Cost? Here's Everything You Need To Know," Pawlicy Advisor. Accessed January 20, 2023. Retrieved from:  https://www.pawlicy.com/blog/vet-visit-cost

4  “Veterinary Services & Pricing," Access Veterinary Care. Accessed January 20, 2023. Retrieved from:  https://www.myaccessvetcare.com/veterinary-services

5  Batiari, Lila. “Puppy Deworming Schedule: Everything You Need to Know," PawlicyAdvisor. Accessed January 20, 2023. Retrieved from:  https://www.pawlicy.com/blog/puppy-deworming-schedule/

6  “How to tell if your cat is sick: Signs and Symptoms," Hillcrest. Accessed January 20, 2023. Retrieved from:  https://www.hillcrestanimals.com/site/blog-memphis-vet/2020/03/12/how-to-tell-if-your-cat-is-sick

7  Drexler, Abby. “How to Tell if Your Dog is Sick: 11 Common Symptoms," American Kennel Club. January 24, 2022. Retrieved from:  https://www.akcpetinsurance.com/blog/5-common-signs-that-your-dog-is-sick

8  Croll, Maxime. “Average Cost of Pet Insurance: 2022 Facts and Figures," Value Penguin. March 1, 2022. Retrieved from:  https://www.valuepenguin.com/pet-insurance/average-cost-of-pet-insurance

10  “Pet Emergency Statistics and Veterinary Costs," Preventative Vet. Accessed January 20, 2023. Retrieved from:  https://www.preventivevet.com/pet-emergency-statistics

11  2023 Average Procedural Cost Study for Cosmetic, Dental and Veterinary Practices across the United States. ASQ360° Market Research, October 2023

12  “Cutting Pet Care Costs," ASPCA. Accessed July 7, 2022. Retrieved from:  https://www.aspca.org/pet-care/general-pet-care/cutting-pet-care-costs

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How Much Does a Vet Visit Cost?

Table of Contents

What Factors Impact the Cost of a Vet Visit?

How much does a routine vet visit cost, how much does an emergency vet visit cost, key takeaways.

• The cost of a vet visit can vary widely depending on the reason. In general, routine checkups will cost less than something like a visit to the emergency vet.
• Pet insurance can help cover many vet-visit costs, though most base plans are typically limited to events like accidents and illnesses.

Visits to the vet can be expensive. It’s important to understand the things that can impact costs and the tools, like pet insurance, that can help. While pet insurance plans generally assist with unexpected costs, like illnesses and injuries, wellness add-ons can help with routine and preventive care. Here’s a breakdown of what you need to know about the cost of vet visits.

There are several factors that can help determine how much you end up paying for a vet visit, including:

• Pet type: Some procedures may cost more for a dog versus a cat, for example.
• Pet gender: Certain procedures can also cost more or less depending on whether your pet is a male or a female. (for instance, sterilization surgeries.)
• Your pet’s health history: Some procedures may cost more for animals based on their health history since that could complicate things.
• Reason for the visit: A routine check-up is probably going to cost less than one that requires extensive testing or an especially costly procedure, like surgery.
• Where you take your pet: Some vet offices or other facilities may provide cheaper care than others.

The cost of a routine vet visit can vary pretty widely. For example, if you have a pet cat, basic vaccinations could run you $80 to $160. But dog vaccinations (which may include rabies; DAPP/DHPP (distemper, adenovirus/hepatitis, parainfluenza, parvovirus); lyme disease; leptospirosis; and canine influenza, among others) can cost up to $300 if done in the same visit. Or, for a wellness visit, where the vet will check things like bloodwork and perform a dental check, the costs could be anywhere from $45 to $300, depending on the type of pet you have and where you go for care.

Some other vet visits, like spay or neuter surgery, could range in cost from hundreds of dollars to upwards of $1,000, depending on the type of animal and the level of care chosen, which may include IV medication and pre-surgery blood work. And that’s assuming you don’t add on additional services, such as microchipping or vaccinations. But also keep in mind that depending on where you live – and other factors, such as income – there could be low-cost or even no-cost spay and neuter programs available. One good way to explore these possibilities is to contact an area humane society.

And routine vet visit costs can often be covered by pet insurance wellness plans. What’s covered – and how much coverage is available – depends on the wellness plan you select, though.

There are many reasons why a pet may need an emergency vet visit, from swallowed objects, to ingesting toxins or breaking a bone. Some of these causes will require more testing, and therefore more cost, than others. And while some veterinary clinics will offer both emergency and general care, you may have to go to an emergency 24-hour clinic instead, which could have different rates than your usual vet. Plus, the longer your pet needs care, the more it may cost, particularly if they need to stay and be monitored overnight.

Here are some common costs you may encounter during an emergency vet visit for a dog, along with possible price ranges:

• X-ray: $150 to $250
• Wound treatment: $800 to $2,500
• Short-term hospitalization (1 to 2 days): $600 to $1,700
• Emergency surgery: $1,800 to $5,000
• Oxygen therapy: $800 to $3,000

And here are some costs you may encounter when seeking emergency services for a cat:

• Wound treatment: $800 to $1,500
• Short-term hospitalization (1 to 2 days): $600 to $1,500
• Emergency surgery: $1,500 to $3,000
• Oxygen therapy: $500 to $2,500

There could also be an exam fee, which allows the vet to assess whether any testing needs to be done to help your pet, as well as diagnostic testing if necessary.

How Much Does a Diagnostic Vet Visit Cost?

Sometimes your pet has health issues that aren’t an immediate threat to their wellbeing, but that may require treatment, such as a change in their diet or medications. In that case, you may be going to the vet for diagnostic testing. The costs can vary quite widely, as diagnostic care can include everything from X-rays and urine tests to more expensive procedures like an MRI. This doesn’t include the upfront costs that may lead to the need for diagnostic testing, such as routine blood work.

Here are some costs you may encounter for a diagnostic vet visit for a dog or cat:

• X-ray: Up to $250
• Fecal exam: $25 to $60
• Ultrasound: $300 to $600
• Lab tests: $200 to $300
• Urine tests: $25 to $100
• MRI: $1,500 to $2,500

Keep in mind that some tests, like X-rays, may have more complex and expensive versions, so that can impact your total costs. And if there are multiple areas of the body affected, that may mean paying more. Diagnostic testing costs can be hard to predict, which is why you can (and should) ask for a quote up front. That way, you’ll be better prepared and can understand your options.

Remember that the cost of vet care, whether routine, emergency, diagnostic, or other, can vary based on many factors, including where you live. The numbers listed here are provided only as examples. The surest way to estimate the cost of a particular treatment or procedure is to ask a local pet healthcare professional.

Does Pet Insurance Cover Vet Visits?

The purpose of pet insurance is to cover unexpected medical events, so some vet visits will certainly be covered. Typically, a basic pet insurance plan will not cover routine or preventive care – that’s where a wellness plan add-on may come in handy.

Vet costs resulting from accidents and covered illnesses that happen after the policy’s waiting period, however, will be covered. This can include things like the X-rays or blood work needed to diagnose a broken bone or illness, hospitalization costs, wound treatment, and emergency surgery.

Keep in mind, however, that pet insurance plans have exclusions, so be sure to familiarize yourself with those before purchasing a policy. Exclusions can vary by insurer.

Many pet insurance companies offer wellness plans as an add-on that can cover routine and preventive care at an additional cost. That can include things like flea, tick, and heartworm medications, routine vaccinations, and the cost of seeing a vet for your pet’s regular checkup.

In most cases, a pet insurance policy will help cover costs related to illnesses and accidents, but it won’t cover preexisting conditions or routine or preventive care. However, insurers may provide the option to get routine and preventive costs covered with a wellness add-on. Otherwise, that would have to be paid out-of-pocket or via a specific wellness plan.

For covered costs, you would typically pay for the treatment or procedure yourself and then be reimbursed by the insurer up to a certain percentage once you’ve hit your plan deductible. So there is a bit of a delay in the payment.

Let’s say you have a $500 vet bill that’s covered by your pet policy, with a 90% reimbursement rate. Assuming you’ve met the deductible for the year, you’d get $450 back for that charge. Often, the higher the reimbursement rate, the higher the monthly premium, so that’s something to consider when shopping for a policy.

For more information about pet insurance, see the following guides:

• Best Pet Insurance Companies
• Best Cheap Pet Insurance Companies
• How Much Does Pet Insurance Cost?
• ASPCA Pet Health Insurance
• Healthy Paws
• Progressive

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• Best Pet Insurance in California
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• Best Pet Insurance in Minnesota
• Best Pet Insurance in New Jersey
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• Best Pet Insurance in Virginia
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What Is the Typical Cost of a Vet Visit?

What should you expect at a vet visit, annual checkup, diagnostic testing, ear or eye issues, emergencies, spaying or neutering, vaccinations, does pet insurance cover vet visits, is the cost of vet visit worth it, faqs about vet visit costs, how much does a vet visit cost (2024 guide).

Written by Brenda Woods Updated 04/03/2024

Brenda Woods is an accomplished writer and managing editor with more than two decades of publishing experience. She has spent over 10 years covering home services and home improvement projects. Brenda supports her team in evaluating dozens of home service providers, surveying and speaking to hom…

Pets need health care, and not just when they’re sick. Regular vet visits are essential to keeping your pet healthy and should be factored into your budget just like food and toys. How regularly you need to take your pet to the vet depends on its age, breed, and health, but most vets recommend at least once per year. 

So how much will vet visits cost you? It depends on the reason for the visit. We looked at common vet bills from some of the best pet insurance companies to see how much different types of vet visits typically cost. See what you can expect to pay below.

The average cost of a vet visit is $50–$200, but certain tests and treatments will increase the price. It also depends on the level of care you choose, such as whether you opt to have anesthesia administered for procedures or take your pet to multiple specialists. A basic vet visit involving a brief, noninvasive assessment of your pet will cost closer to $50. A more thorough evaluation will cost more.

A vet visit is any instance in which you take your pet in to see a veterinarian. This could be for routine reasons or more dire circumstances, but there are some things most vets will do at almost every appointment:

• Administer flea, tick, heartworm, and other parasite prevention if needed
• Assess weight
• Check lymph nodes and throat
• Evaluate teeth
• Examine the eyes for redness
• Listen to the heart and lungs
• Look into the ears and nose for abnormalities
• Palpate the abdomen to check for masses or pain
• Take pulse and temperature 

This evaluation will give your vet a good indication of your pet’s physical health. You’ll likely be asked questions about your pet’s behavior and have the chance to ask your own questions and share concerns. If you’ve come to the vet for a specific issue, your vet will make evaluations and administer treatment based on that condition.

What Are Reasons for Going to the Vet?

There are many reasons to take your pet to see a veterinarian. Here are some of the most common.

Vets recommend a yearly exam—twice yearly for senior pets—to make sure your pet’s health is on track and administer any preventive care your pet may need. A full physical can run anywhere from $100–$300 for dogs and $90–$200 for cats, depending on its age, breed, and location. The more testing your pet requires, the higher the price will be. 

Pets experience allergies, too. Coughing, excessive licking, scratching, and sneezing are all signs your pet is dealing with allergies. A vet will likely conduct a skin test to determine what kind of allergy your pet has and make a treatment plan. This type of visit will likely cost $200–$250, or $200–$300 if a blood test is needed.

Diagnostic testing is necessary when you don’t know what’s going on with your pet. This can include blood work, MRIs, ultrasounds, urine tests, and X-rays. You should ask your vet in advance how much these tests will cost, but here are the average ranges:

• Blood work: $200–$300 
• MRI: $1,500–$2,500
• Ultrasound: $300–$600
• Urine test: $25–$100
• X-ray: $75–$400, depending on the complexity

Eye and ear infections are common in pets. It could be due to bacteria, mites, yeast, or an unnoticed injury. A vet will examine the area, determine the cause, and recommend treatment, which may include a prescription. As long as the issue doesn’t point to a more serious health condition, this visit will typically cost $120–$150.

An emergency is the worst reason to have to see a vet. Thankfully, there are 24/7 emergency vet clinics and animal hospitals you can take your pet to if it experiences a serious injury or shows signs of illness. Just like with humans, going to an emergency clinic costs more. Here are the most common expenses:

• ER exam: $75–$200
• Overnight hospitalization: $600–$1,700
• Multi-night hospitalization: $1,500–$3,500

Spaying and neutering costs vary depending on the kind of veterinary care you want for your pet. Anesthesia, IV fluids, pain medication, and other add-ons will increase the price. Spaying also costs more than neutering because the procedure is more complex. Standard clinics charge $200–$400 for dogs and $50–$4,200 for cats. 

Vaccinations are an important part of your pet’s health care. Core vaccinations should be administered in your pet’s first year of life based on the schedule your vet outlines. Your pet may need boosters as it ages. 

Here are common vaccines and their costs:

• Bordetella: $19–$50/dose
• DAPP or DHPP: $25–$50/dose
• Feline leukemia: $25–$50/dose 
• FVRCP: $25–$50/dose
• Influenza: $30–$50/dose
• Leptospirosis: $30–$50/dose
• Lyme disease : $30–$50/dose
• Rabies: $15–$50/dose

What Factors Affect the Cost of Vet Visits?

How much vet visits cost can vary depending on a few factors. Here are some of the most common.

Pet insurance can greatly offset veterinary costs and will cover most visits. Though routine checkups are rarely covered in basic accident-and-illness plans, diagnostic testing, emergency care, hospitalization, prescription medications, surgeries, and more are. Many providers offer wellness plans to cover preventive pet care, such as annual visits, for an extra monthly fee.

If you have a pet insurance plan, you’ll pay for your pet’s vet visit at checkout, then file a claim for that amount and get reimbursed by your provider within a couple of weeks. Most providers reimburse at least 70% of the vet bill, and some will reimburse as much as 100%.

We recommend pet insurance providers such as Lemonade , Spot , and Healthy Paws for their coverage and customer service.

If your pet needs care, the most important thing is to get to a vet as soon as possible. Being faced with a bill of $300 or more can be daunting, but visiting a vet clinic in a less metropolitan area can reduce the cost. We recommend that pet parents enroll their pet in a health insurance plan to prevent paying for vet bills out of pocket.

See our list of cheapest pet insurance companies for affordable options.

How much do most vet visits cost?

Routine vet visits typically cost $50–$300, depending on the evaluations and treatments performed. Emergency vet visits can run as high as a few thousand dollars. 

Why does the vet charge so much?

Vet prices are high for various reasons. Vets set their rates based on their medical education and credentials, how complex the exam or procedure they’re performing is, your location, the use of expensive equipment, and other variables that warrant or require high fees. 

How often should a dog go to the vet?

Healthy adult dogs should see a vet once per year for a routine wellness exam. Senior dogs should see a vet twice per year. 

What are the most common vet visits?

Pet owners most commonly take their pets to the vet for routine care such as annual checkups, dental cleaning, vaccinations, and other preventive care. Other common reasons to take your pet to the vet are allergy testing, ear or eye infections, or illness or injury. 

A big pet peeve: Soaring costs of vet care bite into owners' budgets

SAN FRANCISCO – When one of the family's two cats suddenly stopped eating on a Thursday last month, Dave Lambert knew there was something wrong with 12-year-old Ender, a pet so perceptive as to recognize the sound of the Lamberts’ car and regularly greet them at the front door.

Dave and his wife, Rena, canceled a weekend trip to Denver for his mother’s 80th birthday and had Ender run through a series of tests, which determined he had cancer. By Sunday, when it became clear Ender couldn’t be saved, the veterinary bills had already added up to $6,500. An in-home euthanasia cost another $500.

Lambert, a finance professional in San Francisco, said he could tell there was an 80%-90% chance the quickly mounting charges wouldn’t result in keeping the cat alive but felt they had to do everything reasonably possible for such a beloved member of the family.

“The surprising thing for both Rena and I was we just had no idea how attached we were to him, how hard it hit us,’’ he said.

As Americans of all income levels care for their cherished animals, they’re facing bigger vet bills that can substantially impact their finances and sometimes complicate already wrenching decisions.

Veterinarians are reporting a marked increase over the past several years – especially since the pandemic – in the cost of running a practice, which inevitably gets passed along to clients.

According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics , the price of urban veterinarian services rose by 7.9% from February 2023 to February 2024, more than 2½ times higher than the average of all consumer items. Compared with two years ago, urban vet care is up 11%, and over the last decade it has soared by nearly 60%.

A survey by USA TODAY Blueprint this year shows 91% of pet owners have endured some level of financial stress because of pet care costs. Last summer, a Forbes Advisor poll revealed 63% of dog and cat owners said inflation had made it harder to pay an unexpected vet expense, and 42% said they would go into debt if the bill was for $999 or less.

Pit bull attack leads to soaring surgery bills

Micah and Angie Cacopardo spent $17,000 on surgeries and other treatment for their greyhound, Lenny, after it was attacked by a pit bull two years ago at a dog park in Raleigh, North Carolina, leaving their then-3-year-old pet with a large gash and severely torn skin.

The sudden expenditure put a significant dent in the budget of the young couple, who were saving to have their first child.

“In the beginning it was, ‘Start swiping this Visa, we’ll figure it out later,’’’ said Micah, 33, a construction estimator for a home-damage restoration company. “There was literally no planning for it, which is the tricky part. If you knew six months beforehand, it would be a lot easier.’’

The Cacopardos got some help after setting up a GoFundMe page that brought in more than $4,000 in donations, but they were still left with a large debt and the feeling the veterinary industry “definitely had the knowledge to do better by the client,’’ he said.

'An out-of-pocket expense for most people'

The high price of services and medications can lead to sticker shock for the estimated 95% to 97% of owners whose pets are not covered by health insurance, which is not subsidized by employers, contrary to what’s typical with people.

“It’s less like human health care than it is like other service industries,’’ said Dr. David Lee, an associate dean and professor at Cornell University’s College of Veterinary Medicine. “It’s an out-of-pocket expense for most people.’’

Lee listed several reasons for the rising costs of veterinary care, among them a shortage of vets – some driven to retirement during the stressful pandemic years, others lured by specialty practices and emergency clinics – and a chronic dearth of technicians.

Increased demand from a surge of pandemic-era pet adoptions and a subsequent tight labor market that endures have pushed up labor costs, which Lee said can make up 60% of a practice’s expenses. Other factors at play include more expensive medications and technologically advanced diagnostic tests, along with increasing corporate consolidation and the growing presence in the industry of private equity firms.

About 25% of the nation’s 30,000 veterinary clinics are owned by large chains, and that percentage triples when it comes to pricier emergency and specialty clinics, The Associated Press reported . Independent vets worry a profit-focused approach may spike prices and worsen care.

“As investors want more and more returns, the easiest thing to do is to raise fees, which puts it back on the clients,’’ Lee said. “We’re very concerned that there could be as much as 35% of pet owners who will not have affordable access to veterinary care in just the next few years.’’

Some pet owners are delaying care

Dr. Link Welborn, owner of an independent network of eight pet hospitals in and around Tampa, Florida, said consolidation has led to more competition for veterinarians and technicians, “which has contributed to wage inflation and the associated increased costs for consumers.’’

He cites other rising expenses over the past four years, such as medical equipment and supplies, but they’re all secondary to paying more for labor. That makes for some difficult decisions for his clients.

“Unfortunately, higher costs reduce affordability,’’ Welborn said, “which causes some pet owners to delay care for their pets, particularly wellness care, or need a payment plan if their pet becomes ill.’’

Putting off preventive care, which often includes vaccinations, is exactly the opposite of what industry experts recommend for pet owners seeking to cut down on their vet bills, because those visits can uncover an issue that may be more expensive to treat later.

Pet insurance is an option for some

There are several other measures that can mitigate costs, such as using the drop-off option at pet hospitals that offer it or consulting with a triage service such as FirstVet , VetTriage or the Animal Humane Society's free Pet Helpline before taking a pet to an expensive emergency clinic.

The rising costs of care have also made buying pet insurance a more appealing alternative for some. Plans cost an average of $660 a year for dogs and about $560 for cats, and they vary depending on features.

Dr. Rena Carlson, president of the American Veterinary Medical Association , said her trade group encourages pet owners to consider insurance and plan for unexpected costs.

“Preventive care is key to finding things early and dealing with problems early,’’ she said, “before they become a really expensive emergency.’’

How much does an ER visit cost?

$1,500 – $3,000 average cost without insurance (non-life-threatening condition), $0 – $500 average cost with insurance (after meeting deductible).

Average ER visit cost

An ER visit costs $1,500 to $3,000 on average without insurance, with most people spending about $2,100 for an urgent, non-life-threatening health issue. The cost of an emergency room visit depends on the severity of the condition and the tests, treatments, and medications needed to treat it.

Cost data is from research and project costs reported by BetterCare members.

Emergency room visit cost with insurance

The cost of an ER visit for an insured patient varies according to the insurance plan and the nature and severity of their condition. Some plans cover a percentage of the total cost once you meet your deductible, while others charge an average co-pay of $50 to $500 .

The No Surprises Act , effective January 1, 2022, protects insured individuals from unreasonably high medical bills for emergency services received from out-of-network providers at in-network facilities. The act also established a dispute resolution process for both insured and uninsured or self-pay individuals.

Cost of an ER visit without insurance

An ER visit costs $1,500 to $3,000 on average without insurance for non-life-threatening conditions. Costs can reach $20,000+ for critical conditions requiring extensive testing or emergency surgery. Essentially, the more severe your condition or issue, the more you are likely to pay for the ER visit.

Factors that impact ER visit costs

Many factors affect the cost of an ER visit, including:

Facility type – Freestanding emergency departments often cost 50% more than hospital-based emergency rooms.

Time of day – An ER visit at night typically costs more than the same type of visit during the day.

Level of care – The more severe your condition is, the more time and expertise it takes to diagnose and treat, and the higher the total ER visit cost.

Ambulance ride – An ambulance ride costs $500 to $1,300 on average, depending on whether you need basic or advanced life support during transport.

Medications – Oral medications, injections, or IVs needed during your stay all add the total cost of your ER visit.

Medical equipment & supplies – Any other supplies used to diagnose and treat you—such as a cast for a broken bone or bandages and sutures to close an open wound—increase the cost.

Testing – Each medical test is typically a separate charge. Tests may include urine tests, blood tests, X-rays, or other more advanced imaging tests.

Insurance coverage:

Out-of-pocket costs may be higher for those with high-deductible insurance plans.

While ER visit costs are generally higher for the uninsured, many hospitals offer discounts for self-pay patients.

ER facility fee by level

An ER facility fee ranges from $200 to $4,000 , depending on the severity level of your symptoms and condition. The facility fee is the cost to walk in the door and be evaluated by a physician. Other services you may need, such as lab tests, imaging, and surgical procedures, are charged separately.

To understand your ER bill: Emergency rooms rank severity levels 1 through 5, with Level 1 being the most severe or urgent. However, most of the billing codes for emergency room visits are reversed, with level 1 being the least severe.

Common conditions and procedures

The table below shows the average ER visit cost for common ailments. Prices vary greatly depending on how much testing and expertise is required to accurately diagnose and treat you.

Emergency room vs. urgent care

An ER visit costs $1,500 to $3,000 , while the average urgent care visit costs $150 to $250 without insurance. Urgent care facilities can treat most non-life-threatening conditions and typically have less wait time than the ER. For more detail, check out our guide comparing the cost of an emergency room vs. urgent care .

Other alternatives to the ER for less serious health issues include primary care, telemedicine, and free clinics. Check with the National Association of Free and Charitable Clinics to find a free clinic near you.

FAQs about ER visit costs

Why are er visits so expensive.

ER visits are expensive because emergency rooms run on a 24-hour schedule and require a large and wide range of staff, including front desk personnel, maintenance, nurses, doctors, and surgeons. ERs also run and maintain a lot of expensive equipment and need a constant supply of medications and medical supplies.

While ER visits can be expensive, ER bills are negotiable. If you receive an unexpectedly large ER bill, ask for a discount and question the coding.

Does insurance cover ER visits?

Insurance typically covers some or all of an ER visit, though you may need to meet a deductible first, depending on the plan. The Affordable Care Act requires insurance providers to cover ER visits for "emergency medical conditions" without prior authorization and regardless of whether they are in or out-of-network.

An "emergency medical condition" is considered something so severe that a reasonable person would seek help right away to avoid serious harm.

When should you go to the ER?

You should go to the ER for any serious, potentially life-threatening symptoms, including:

Trouble breathing

Serious head injury

Sudden severe pain

Severe burn

Severe allergic reaction

Major broken bones

Uncontrollable bleeding

Suddenly feeling weak or unable to move, speak, or walk

Sudden change in vision

Sudden confusion

Fever that does not resolve with over-the-counter medicine

Tips to reduce your ER bill

An ER visit can cost thousands of dollars, even if you have insurance. Here are some guidelines to ensure you are not overpaying:

Determine if you truly need an emergency room. If your health issue is not life threatening, consider going to an urgent care facility instead as the cost for the same care can be much less.

Go to a hospital-based ER. Freestanding ER centers typically cost much more than a hospital-based emergency room.

Call ahead to confirm payment options and the current wait time.

Ask about costs up front. If you are uninsured, consider asking the following questions to prevent you from surprises on your future bill:

Do you have discounted pricing for patients without insurance?

Will it cost less if I pay with cash?

What will the fee be for my specific issue?

Do you think I will need additional tests, and what will they cost?

How much do you charge for X-rays?

If I need medication, how much will it cost?

We use our proprietary database of project costs, personally contact industry experts to compile up-to-date pricing and insights, and conduct in-depth research to ensure accuracy in all our guides.

How Much Does an ER Visit Cost? Free Local Cost Calculator 

It’s true that you can’t plan for a medical emergency, but that doesn’t mean you have to be surprised when it’s time to pay your hospital bill. In 2021, the U.S. government enacted price transparency rules for hospitals in order to demystify health care costs. That means it should be easier to get answers to questions like how much an ER visit costs.

While the question seems pretty straightforward, the answer is more complicated. Your cost will vary based on factors such as if you’re insured, whether you’ve met your deductible, the type of plan you have, and what your plan covers. 

There is a lot to consider. This guide will take you through specific scenarios and answer questions about insurance plans, deductibles, co-payments, and discuss scenarios such as how much it costs if you go to the ER when it isn’t an emergency. 

You’ll learn a few industry secrets too. Did you know that if you don’t have insurance you might see a higher bill? According to the Wall Street Journal , it’s common for hospitals to charge uninsured and self-pay patients higher rates than insured patients for the same services. So, where can you go if you can’t afford to go to the ER?

Keep reading for all this plus real-life examples and cost-saving tips.

How Much Does an ER Visit Cost Without Insurance?

Everything is more expensive in the ER. According to UnitedHealth, a trip to the emergency department can cost 12 times more than a typical doctor’s office visit. The average ER visit is $2,200, and doesn’t include procedures or medications. 

If you want to get a better idea of what an ER visit will cost in your area, check out our medical price comparison tool that analyzes data from thousands of hospitals.

Compare Procedure Costs Near You

Other out-of-pocket expenses you may incur include bills from third parties. A growing number of emergency departments in the United States have become business entities separate from the hospital. So, third-party providers may bill you too, like:

• EMS services, like an ambulance or helicopter 
• ER physicians
• Attending physician
• Consulting physicians
• Advanced practice nurses (CRNA, NP)
• Physician assistants (PA)
• Physical therapists (PT)

And if your insurance company fails to pay, you may have to pay these expenses out-of-pocket.

How Much Does an ER Visit Cost With Insurance? 

The easiest way to estimate out-of-pocket expenses for an ER visit (or any other health care service) is to read your insurance policy. You’ll want to look for information around these terms:

• Deductible: The amount you have to pay out-of-pocket before your insurance kicks in . 
• Copay: A set fee you pay upfront before a covered medical service or procedure. 
• Coinsurance: The percentage you pay for a service or a procedure once you’ve met the deductible.
• Out-of-pocket maximum: The most you will pay for covered services in a rolling year. Once met, your insurance company will pay 100% of covered expenses for the rest of the year. 

Closely related to out-of-pocket expenses like deductibles and co-insurance are premiums. A premium is the monthly fee you (or your sponsor) pay to the insurance company for coverage. If you pay a higher premium, you’ll have a lower deductible and fewer out-of-pocket costs whenever you use your insurance to pay for services such as a visit to the ER. The opposite is also true — high deductible health plans (HDHP) offer lower monthly payments but much higher deductibles. 

Sample ER Visit Cost

Using a few examples from plans available on the Marketplace on Healthcare.gov (current as of November 2021), here’s how this might play out in real life:

Rob is a young, healthy, single guy. He knows he needs health insurance but he feels reasonably sure that the only time he’d ever use it is in case of an emergency. Here’s the plan he chooses:

Plan: Blue Cross/Blue Shield Bronze Monthly premium: $394 Deductible: $7,000 Out-of-pocket maximum: $7,000 ER coverage: 100% after meeting the deductible

Rob does the math and considers the worst case scenario. If he does go to the ER, he’ll pay full price if he hasn’t yet met his deductible. But since both his deductible and his maximum out-of-pocket are the same, $7,000 is the most he’ll have to pay before his insurance kicks in at 100%.

Now imagine that Rob gets married and is about to start a family. He might need a different insurance plan to account for more hospital bills, doctors appointments, and inevitable emergency room visits.

Since Rob knows he’ll be using his insurance more often, he picks a plan with a lower deductible that covers more things. 

Plan: Bright HealthCare Gold Monthly premium: $643 Deductible: $0 Out-of-pocket maximum: $6,500 ER coverage: $500 Vision: $0 Generic prescription: $0 Primary care: $0 Specialist: $40

This time Rob goes with a zero deductible plan with a higher monthly premium. It’s more out-of-pocket each month, but since his plan covers doctor’s visits, prescription drugs, and vision, he feels more prepared as his lifestyle shifts into family mode. 

If he has to go to the ER for any reason, all he’ll pay is $500 and his insurance pays the rest. And worse case scenario, the most he’ll pay out-of-pocket in a year is $6,500. 

How Much Does an ER Visit Cost if You Have Medicare?

Medicare Part A only covers an emergency room visit if you’re admitted to the hospital. Medicare Part B covers 100% of most ER costs for most injuries, or if you become suddenly ill. Unlike private insurance and insurance purchased on the Affordable Care Act (ACA) Marketplace, Medicare rarely covers ER visits that happen while you’re outside of the United States.

To learn more, read: How to Use the Healthcare Marketplace to Buy Insurance

How Much Does an ER Visit Cost for Non-Emergencies?

When you have a sick child but lack insurance, haven’t met your deductible, or if you’re between paychecks, just knowing you can go to the ER without being hassled for money feels like such a relief. ER staff won’t demand payment upfront, and they usually don’t ask about insurance or assess your ability to pay until after discharge.

There are other reasons, too. You might be tempted to go to the ER for situations that are less than emergent because emergency departments provide easy access to health services 24/7, including holidays and the odd hours when your primary care physician isn’t available. If you’re one of the 61 million Americans who are uninsured or underinsured , you might go to the ER because you don’t know where else to go.

What you may not understand is the cost of an ER visit without insurance can total thousands of dollars. Consumers with ER bills that get sent to collections face some of the most aggressive debt collection practices of any industry. Collection accounts and charge-offs could affect your credit score for the better part of a decade.

Did you know that charges begin racking up as soon as you give the clerk your name and Social Security number? There are tons of horror stories out there about people receiving medical bills after waiting, some for many hours, and leaving without treatment. 

4 ER Alternatives Ranked by Level of Care

First and foremost, if you’re experiencing a medical emergency, call 911 or go to the closest emergency room. Do not rely on this or any other website for advice or communication. 

If you’re not sure whether your condition warrants immediate, high-level emergency care, you can always call your local ER and ask to speak to their triage nurse. They can quickly assess how urgent the situation is. 

If you are looking for a lower-cost alternative to the ER, this list provides a few options. Each option is ranked by their ability to provide you with a certain level of care from emergent care to the lowest level, which is similar to the routine care you would receive at a doctor’s office. 

1. Charitable Hospitals  

There are around 1,400 charity hospitals , clinics, and pharmacies dedicated to serving low-income families, including the uninsured. Most charitable, not-for-profit medical centers provide emergency room services, making it a good option if you’re uninsured and worried about accruing substantial medical debt. 

ERs at charitable hospitals provide the same type of medical care for conditions like trauma, broken bones, and life-threatening issues like chest pain and difficulty breathing. The major difference is the price tag. Emergency room fees at a charity hospital are usually flexible and almost always based on your income. 

2. Urgent Care Centers

Urgent care centers are free-standing facilities designed to treat patients with serious but not life-threatening conditions. Also called “doc in a box,” these ambulatory care centers are a good choice for treating stable but chronic health issues, fever, urinary tract infections, back pain, abdominal pain, and moderately high blood pressure, to name a few. 

Urgent care clinics usually have a medical doctor on-site. Some clinics offer point-of-care diagnostic tests like ultrasound and X-rays, as well as basic lab work. The average cost for an urgent care visit is around $180, according to UnitedHealth.

3. Retail Health Clinics

You may have noticed small retail health clinics (RHC) popping up in national drugstore chains like CVS, Walgreens, and in big-box stores like Target and Walmart. The Little Clinic is an example of an RHC that offers walk-in health care services at 190 supermarkets across the United States. 

RHCs help low-acuity patients with minor medical problems like sore throat, cough, flu-like symptoms, and other conditions normally treated in a doctor’s office. If you think you’ll need lab tests or other procedures, an RHC may not be the best choice. Data from UnitedHealth puts the average cost for an RHC visit at $100.

4. Telehealth Visits

Telehealth, in some form, has been around for decades. Until recently, it was mostly used to provide access to care for patients living in the most remote or rural areas. Since 2020, telehealth visits over the phone, via chat, or through videoconferencing have become a legitimate and extremely cost-effective alternative to in-person office visits. 

Telehealth is perfect for some types of mental health therapies, follow-up appointments, and triage. For self-pay, a telehealth visit only costs around $50, according to UnitedHealth.

Tips for Taking Control of Your Health Care

• Don’t procrastinate. Delaying the care you need for too long will end up costing you more in the end. 
• Switch your focus from reactive care to proactive care. Figuring out how to pay for an ER visit is a lot harder (and costlier) than preventing an ER visit in the first place. Data show that preventive health care measures lead to fewer illnesses and better outcomes.
• Plan for the unknown. It’s inevitable that at some point in your life you’ll need health care. Start a savings account fund or better yet, enroll in a health savings account (HSA). If you’re employed (even part-time) you already qualify for an HSA. A contribution of just $9 a paycheck could add up to $468 tax-free dollars for you to spend on health care every year. Unlike the use-it-or-lose-it savings plans of the past, modern plans don’t expire. You can use HSA dollars to pay for out-of-pocket costs like copayments, deductibles, and for services that your health insurance may not cover, like dental and vision services. 
• Advocate for yourself. There is nothing more empowering than taking charge of your health. Shop around for services and compare prices on procedures to make sure you’re getting the best prices possible.
• If you are uninsured or doing self-pay, negotiate your bill and ask for a cash discount. 

Estimate the Cost of the ER Before You Need It

It’s stressful to think about money when you’re facing an emergency. Research the costs of your nearest ER before you actually need to go with Compare.com’s procedure cost comparison tool . 

All you have to do is enter your ZIP code and you’ll immediately see out-of-pocket costs for ER visits at your local emergency rooms. It works for other medical services too, like MRIs, routine screenings, outpatient procedures, and more. Find the treatment you need at a price you can afford.

Disclaimer: Compare.com does not offer medical advice and is in no way a substitute for any medical advice received from health professionals. Compare.com is unable to offer any advice on any medical procedure you may need.

Nick Versaw leads Compare.com's editorial department, where he and his team specialize in crafting helpful, easy-to-understand content about car insurance and other related topics. With nearly a decade of experience writing and editing insurance and personal finance articles, his work has helped readers discover substantial savings on necessary expenses, including insurance, transportation, health care, and more.

As an award-winning writer, Nick has seen his work published in countless renowned publications, such as the Washington Post, Los Angeles Times, and U.S. News & World Report. He graduated with Latin honors from Virginia Commonwealth University, where he earned his Bachelor's Degree in Digital Journalism.

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The Evolving Danger of the New Bird Flu

An unusual outbreak of the disease has spread to dairy herds in multiple u.s. states..

This transcript was created using speech recognition software. While it has been reviewed by human transcribers, it may contain errors. Please review the episode audio before quoting from this transcript and email [email protected] with any questions.

From “The New York Times,” I’m Sabrina Tavernise, and this is “The Daily.”

[MUSIC PLAYING]

The outbreak of bird flu that is tearing through the nation’s poultry farms is the worst in US history. But scientists say it’s now starting to spread into places and species it’s never been before.

Today, my colleague, Emily Anthes, explains.

It’s Monday, April 22.

Emily, welcome back to the show.

Thanks for having me. Happy to be here.

So, Emily, we’ve been talking here on “The Daily” about prices of things and how they’ve gotten so high, mostly in the context of inflation episodes. And one of the items that keeps coming up is eggs. Egg prices were through the roof last year, and we learned it was related to this. Avian flu has been surging in the United States. You’ve been covering this. Tell us what’s happening.

Yes, so I have been covering this virus for the last few years. And the bird flu is absolutely tearing through poultry flocks, and that is affecting egg prices. That’s a concern for everyone, for me and for my family. But when it comes to scientists, egg prices are pretty low on their list of concerns. Because they see this bird flu virus behaving differently than previous versions have. And they’re getting nervous, in particular, about the fact that this virus is reaching places and species where it’s never been before.

OK, so bird flu, though, isn’t new. I mean I remember hearing about cases in Asia in the ‘90s. Remind us how it began.

Bird flu refers to a bunch of different viruses that are adapted to spread best in birds. Wild water birds, in particular, are known for carrying these viruses. And flu viruses are famous for also being shapeshifters. So they’re constantly swapping genes around and evolving into new strains. And as you mentioned back in the ‘90s, a new version of bird flu, a virus known as H5N1, emerged in Asia. And it has been spreading on and off around the world since then, causing periodic outbreaks.

And how are these outbreaks caused?

So wild birds are the reservoir for the virus, which means they carry it in their bodies with them around the world as they fly and travel and migrate. And most of the time, these wild birds, like ducks and geese, don’t even get very sick from this virus. But they shed it. So as they’re traveling over a poultry farm maybe, if they happen to go to the bathroom in a pond that the chickens on the farm are using or eat some of the feed that chickens on the farm are eating, they can leave the virus behind.

And the virus can get into chickens. In some cases, it causes mild illness. It’s what’s known as low pathogenic avian influenza. But sometimes the virus mutates and evolves, and it can become extremely contagious and extremely fatal in poultry.

OK, so the virus comes through wild birds, but gets into farms like this, as you’re describing. How have farms traditionally handled outbreaks, when they do happen?

Well, because this threat isn’t new, there is a pretty well-established playbook for containing outbreaks. It’s sometimes known as stamping out. And brutally, what it means is killing the birds. So the virus is so deadly in this highly pathogenic form that it’s sort of destined to kill all the birds on a farm anyway once it gets in. So the response has traditionally been to proactively depopulate or cull all the birds, so it doesn’t have a chance to spread.

So that’s pretty costly for farmers.

It is. Although the US has a program where it will reimburse farmers for their losses. And the way these reimbursements work is they will reimburse farmers only for the birds that are proactively culled, and not for those who die naturally from the virus. And the thinking behind that is it’s a way to incentivize farmers to report outbreaks early.

So, OK, lots of chickens are killed in a way to manage these outbreaks. So we know how to deal with them. But what about now? Tell me about this new strain.

So this new version of the virus, it emerged in 2020.

After the deadly outbreak of the novel coronavirus, authorities have now confirmed an outbreak of the H5N1 strain of influenza, a kind of bird flu.

And pretty quickly it became clear that a couple things set it apart.

A bald eagle found dead at Carvins Cove has tested positive for the highly contagious bird flu.

This virus, for whatever reason, seemed very good at infecting all sorts of wild birds that we don’t normally associate with bird flu.

[BIRD CRYING]

He was kind of stepping, and then falling over, and using its wing to right itself.

Things like eagles and condors and pelicans.

We just lost a parliament of owls in Minneapolis.

Yeah, a couple of high profile nests.

And also in the past, wild birds have not traditionally gotten very sick from this virus. And this version of the virus not only spread widely through the wild bird population, but it proved to be devastating.

The washing up along the East Coast of the country from Scotland down to Suffolk.

We were hearing about mass die-offs of seabirds in Europe by the hundreds and the thousands.

And the bodies of the dead dot the island wherever you look.

Wow. OK. So then as we know, this strain, like previous ones, makes its way from wild animals to farmed animals, namely to chickens. But it’s even more deadly.

Absolutely. And in fact, it has already caused the worst bird flu outbreak in US history. So more than 90 million birds in the US have died as a result of this virus.

90 million birds.

Yes, and I should be clear that represents two things. So some of those birds are birds who naturally got infected and died from the virus. But the vast majority of them are birds that were proactively culled. What it adds up to is, is 90 million farmed birds in the US have died since this virus emerged. And it’s not just a chicken problem. Another thing that has been weird about this virus is it has jumped into other kinds of farms. It is the first time we’ve seen a bird flu virus jump into US livestock.

And it’s now been reported on a number of dairy farms across eight US states. And that’s just something that’s totally unprecedented.

So it’s showing up at Dairy farms now. You’re saying that bird flu has now spread to cows. How did that happen?

So we don’t know exactly how cows were first infected, but most scientists’ best guess is that maybe an infected wild bird that was migrating shed the virus into some cattle feed or a pasture or a pond, and cattle picked it up. The good news is they don’t seem to get nearly as sick as chickens do. They are generally making full recoveries on their own in a couple of weeks.

OK, so no mass culling of cows?

No, that doesn’t seem to be necessary at this point. But the bad news is that it’s starting to look like we’re seeing this virus spread from cow to cow. We don’t know exactly how that’s happening yet. But anytime you see cow-to-cow or mammal-to-mammal transmission, that’s a big concern.

And why is that exactly?

Well, there are a bunch of reasons. First, it could allow the outbreak to get much bigger, much faster, which might increase the risk to the food supply. And we might also expect it to increase the risk to farm workers, people who might be in contact with these sick cows.

Right now, the likelihood that a farmer who gets this virus passes it on is pretty low. But any time you see mammal-to-mammal transmission, it increases the chance that the virus will adapt and possibly, maybe one day get good at spreading between humans. To be clear, that’s not something that there’s any evidence happening in cows right now. But the fact that there’s any cow-to-cow transmission happening at all is enough to have scientists a bit concerned.

And then if we think more expansively beyond what’s happening on farms, there’s another big danger lurking out there. And that’s what happens when this virus gets into wild animals, vast populations that we can’t control.

We’ll be right back.

So, Emily, you said that another threat was the threat of flu in wild animal populations. Clearly, of course, it’s already in wild birds. Where else has it gone?

Well, the reason it’s become such a threat is because of how widespread it’s become in wild birds. So they keep reintroducing it to wild animal populations pretty much anywhere they go. So we’ve seen the virus repeatedly pop up in all sorts of animals that you might figure would eat a wild bird, so foxes, bobcats, bears. We actually saw it in a polar bear, raccoons. So a lot of carnivores and scavengers.

The thinking is that these animals might stumble across a sick or dead bird, eat it, and contract the virus that way. But we’re also seeing it show up in some more surprising places, too. We’ve seen the virus in a bottle-nosed dolphin, of all places.

And most devastatingly, we’ve seen enormous outbreaks in other sorts of marine mammals, especially sea lions and seals.

So elephant seals, in particular in South America, were just devastated by this virus last fall. My colleague Apoorva Mandavilli and I were talking to some scientists in South America who described to us what they called a scene from hell, of walking out onto a beach in Argentina that is normally crowded with chaotic, living, breathing, breeding, elephant seals — and the beach just being covered by carcass, after carcass, after carcass.

Mostly carcasses of young newborn pups. The virus seemed to have a mortality rate of 95 percent in these elephant seal pups, and they estimated that it might have killed more than 17,000 of the pups that were born last year. So almost the entire new generation of this colony. These are scientists that have studied these seals for decades. And they said they’ve never seen anything like it before.

And why is it so far reaching, Emily? I mean, what explains these mass die-offs?

There are probably a few explanations. One is just how much virus is out there in the environment being shed by wild birds into water and onto beaches. These are also places that viruses like this haven’t been before. So it’s reaching elephant seals and sea lions in South America that have no prior immunity.

There’s also the fact that these particular species, these sea lions and seals, tend to breed in these huge colonies all crowded together on beaches. And so what that means is if a virus makes its way into the colony, it’s very conducive conditions for it to spread. And scientists think that that’s actually what’s happening now. That it’s not just that all these seals are picking up the virus from individual birds, but that they’re actually passing it to each other.

So basically, this virus is spreading to places it’s never been before, kind of virgin snow territory, where animals just don’t have the immunity against it. And once it gets into a population packed on a beach, say, of elephant seals, it’s just like a knife through butter.

Absolutely. And an even more extreme example of that is what we’re starting to see happen in Antarctica, where there’s never been a bird flu outbreak before until last fall, for the first time, this virus reached the Antarctic mainland. And we are now seeing the virus move through colonies of not only seabirds and seals, but penguin colonies, which have not been exposed to these viruses before.

And it’s too soon to say what the toll will be. But penguins also, of course, are known for breeding in these large colonies.

Probably. don’t have many immune defenses against this virus, and of course, are facing all these other environmental threats. And so there’s a lot of fear that you add on the stress of a bird flu virus, and it could just be a tipping point for penguins.

Emily, at this point, I’m kind of wondering why more people aren’t talking about this. I mean, I didn’t know any of this before having this conversation with you, and it feels pretty worrying.

Well, a lot of experts and scientists are talking about this with rising alarm and in terms that are quite stark. They’re talking about the virus spreading through wild animal populations so quickly and so ferociously that they’re calling it an ecological disaster.

But that’s a disaster that sometimes seems distant from us, both geographically, we’re talking about things that are happening maybe at the tip of Argentina or in Antarctica. And also from our concerns of our everyday lives, what’s happening in Penguins might not seem like it has a lot to do with the price of a carton of eggs at the grocery store. But I think that we should be paying a lot of attention to how this virus is moving through animal populations, how quickly it’s moving through animal populations, and the opportunities that it is giving the virus to evolve into something that poses a much bigger threat to human health.

So the way it’s spreading in wild animals, even in remote places like Antarctica, that’s important to watch, at least in part because there’s a real danger to people here.

So we know that the virus can infect humans, and that generally it’s not very good at spreading between humans. But the concern all along has been that if this virus has more opportunities to spread between mammals, it will get better at spreading between them. And that seems to be what is happening in seals and sea lions. Scientists are already seeing evidence that the virus is adapting as it passes from marine mammal to marine mammal. And that could turn it into a virus that’s also better at spreading between people.

And if somebody walks out onto a beach and touches a dead sea lion, if their dog starts playing with a sea lion carcass, you could imagine that this virus could make its way out of marine mammals and into the human population. And if it’s this mammalian adapted version of the virus that makes its way out, that could be a bigger threat to human health.

So the sheer number of hosts that this disease has, the more opportunity it has to mutate, and the more chance it has to mutate in a way that would actually be dangerous for people.

Yes, and in particular, the more mammalian hosts. So that gives the virus many more opportunities to become a specialist in mammals instead of a specialist in birds, which is what it is right now.

Right. I like that, a specialist in mammals. So what can we do to contain this virus?

Well, scientists are exploring new options. There’s been a lot of discussion about whether we should start vaccinating chickens in the US. The government, USDA labs, have been testing some poultry vaccines. It’s probably scientifically feasible. There are challenges there, both in terms of logistics — just how would you go about vaccinating billions of chickens every year. There are also trade questions. Traditionally, a lot of countries have not been willing to accept poultry products from countries that vaccinate their poultry.

And there’s concern about whether the virus might spread undetected in flocks that are vaccinated. So as we saw with COVID, the vaccine can sometimes stop you from getting sick, but it doesn’t necessarily stop infection. And so countries are worried they might unknowingly import products that are harboring the virus.

And what about among wild animals? I mean, how do you even begin to get your head around that?

Yeah, I mean, thinking about vaccinating wild animals maybe makes vaccinating all the chickens in the US look easy. There has been some discussion of limited vaccination campaigns, but that’s not feasible on a global scale. So unfortunately, the bottom line is there isn’t a good way to stop spread in wild animals. We can try to protect some vulnerable populations, but we’re not going to stop the circulation of this virus.

So, Emily, we started this conversation with a kind of curiosity that “The Daily” had about the price of eggs. And then you explained the bird flu to us. And then somehow we ended up learning about an ecological disaster that’s unfolding all around us, and potentially the source of the next human pandemic. That is pretty scary.

It is scary, and it’s easy to get overwhelmed by it. And I feel like I should take a step back and say none of this is inevitable. None of this is necessarily happening tomorrow. But this is why scientists are concerned and why they think it’s really important to keep a very close eye on what’s happening both on farms and off farms, as this virus spreads through all sorts of animal populations.

One thing that comes up again and again and again in my interviews with people who have been studying bird flu for decades, is how this virus never stops surprising them. And sometimes those are bad surprises, like these elephant seal die-offs, the incursions into dairy cattle. But there are some encouraging signs that have emerged recently. We’re starting to see some early evidence that some of the bird populations that survived early brushes with this virus might be developing some immunity. So that’s something that maybe could help slow the spread of this virus in animal populations.

We just don’t entirely know how this is going to play out. Flu is a very difficult, wily foe. And so that’s one reason scientists are trying to keep such a close, attentive eye on what’s happening.

Emily, thank you.

Thanks for having me.

Here’s what else you should know today.

On this vote, the yeas are 366 and the nays are 58. The bill is passed.

On Saturday, in four back-to-back votes, the House voted resoundingly to approve a long-stalled package of aid to Ukraine, Israel and other American allies, delivering a major victory to President Biden, who made aid to Ukraine one of his top priorities.

On this vote, the yeas are 385, and the no’s are 34 with one answering present. The bill is passed without objection.

The House passed the component parts of the $95 billion package, which included a bill that could result in a nationwide ban of TikTok.

On this vote, the yeas are 311 and the nays are 112. The bill is passed.

Oh, one voting present. I missed it, but thank you.

In a remarkable breach of custom, Democrats stepped in to supply the crucial votes to push the legislation past hard-line Republican opposition and bring it to the floor.

The House will be in order.

The Senate is expected to pass the legislation as early as Tuesday.

Today’s episode was produced by Rikki Novetsky, Nina Feldman, Eric Krupke, and Alex Stern. It was edited by Lisa Chow and Patricia Willens; contains original music by Marion Lozano, Dan Powell, Rowan Niemisto, and Sophia Lanman; and was engineered by Chris Wood. Our theme music is by Jim Brunberg and Ben Landsverk of Wonderly. Special thanks to Andrew Jacobs.

That’s it for “The Daily.” I’m Sabrina Tavernise. See you tomorrow.

• April 25, 2024   •   40:33 The Crackdown on Student Protesters
• April 24, 2024   •   32:18 Is $60 Billion Enough to Save Ukraine?
• April 23, 2024   •   30:30 A Salacious Conspiracy or Just 34 Pieces of Paper?
• April 22, 2024   •   24:30 The Evolving Danger of the New Bird Flu
• April 19, 2024   •   30:42 The Supreme Court Takes Up Homelessness
• April 18, 2024   •   30:07 The Opening Days of Trump’s First Criminal Trial
• April 17, 2024   •   24:52 Are ‘Forever Chemicals’ a Forever Problem?
• April 16, 2024   •   29:29 A.I.’s Original Sin
• April 15, 2024   •   24:07 Iran’s Unprecedented Attack on Israel
• April 14, 2024   •   46:17 The Sunday Read: ‘What I Saw Working at The National Enquirer During Donald Trump’s Rise’
• April 12, 2024   •   34:23 How One Family Lost $900,000 in a Timeshare Scam
• April 11, 2024   •   28:39 The Staggering Success of Trump’s Trial Delay Tactics

Hosted by Sabrina Tavernise

Produced by Rikki Novetsky ,  Nina Feldman ,  Eric Krupke and Alex Stern

Edited by Lisa Chow and Patricia Willens

Original music by Marion Lozano ,  Dan Powell ,  Rowan Niemisto and Sophia Lanman

Engineered by Chris Wood

Listen and follow The Daily Apple Podcasts | Spotify | Amazon Music

The outbreak of bird flu currently tearing through the nation’s poultry is the worst in U.S. history. Scientists say it is now spreading beyond farms into places and species it has never been before.

Emily Anthes, a science reporter for The Times, explains.

On today’s episode

Emily Anthes , a science reporter for The New York Times.

Background reading

Scientists have faulted the federal response to bird flu outbreaks on dairy farms .

Here’s what to know about the outbreak.

There are a lot of ways to listen to The Daily. Here’s how.

We aim to make transcripts available the next workday after an episode’s publication. You can find them at the top of the page.

Special thanks to Andrew Jacobs .

The Daily is made by Rachel Quester, Lynsea Garrison, Clare Toeniskoetter, Paige Cowett, Michael Simon Johnson, Brad Fisher, Chris Wood, Jessica Cheung, Stella Tan, Alexandra Leigh Young, Lisa Chow, Eric Krupke, Marc Georges, Luke Vander Ploeg, M.J. Davis Lin, Dan Powell, Sydney Harper, Mike Benoist, Liz O. Baylen, Asthaa Chaturvedi, Rachelle Bonja, Diana Nguyen, Marion Lozano, Corey Schreppel, Rob Szypko, Elisheba Ittoop, Mooj Zadie, Patricia Willens, Rowan Niemisto, Jody Becker, Rikki Novetsky, John Ketchum, Nina Feldman, Will Reid, Carlos Prieto, Ben Calhoun, Susan Lee, Lexie Diao, Mary Wilson, Alex Stern, Dan Farrell, Sophia Lanman, Shannon Lin, Diane Wong, Devon Taylor, Alyssa Moxley, Summer Thomad, Olivia Natt, Daniel Ramirez and Brendan Klinkenberg.

Our theme music is by Jim Brunberg and Ben Landsverk of Wonderly. Special thanks to Sam Dolnick, Paula Szuchman, Lisa Tobin, Larissa Anderson, Julia Simon, Sofia Milan, Mahima Chablani, Elizabeth Davis-Moorer, Jeffrey Miranda, Renan Borelli, Maddy Masiello, Isabella Anderson and Nina Lassam.

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