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New Study Finds 1 in 6 Australians are Skipping Vet Visits.
A new study by VetChat, Australia's leading provider of online vet care, reveals a significant challenge for Australian pet owners: 1 in 6 are skipping essential vet visits due to cost.
The nationally representative survey of 550 Australian pet owners revealed that 16% of Australians have had to avoid taking their pet to the vet when they knew they should. The main reason? Cost, with a lack of after-hours care being the second leading issue.
“These findings demonstrate just how hard the cost-of-living crisis is hitting pet owners,” said Dr. Claire Jenkins, Founder and CEO at VetChat. “When families are forced to make heartbreaking decisions about their pets’ care, we need to ensure there are accessible, affordable solutions available. That’s where pet telehealth can make a real difference.”
Could Pet Telehealth Be the Answer?
A new study by VetChat, Australia's leading provider of online vet care, reveals a significant challenge for Australian pet owners: 1 in 6 are skipping essential vet visits due to cost.
The nationally representative survey of 550 Australian pet owners revealed that 16% of Australians have had to avoid taking their pet to the vet when they knew they should. The main reason? Cost, with a lack of after-hours care being the second leading issue.
“These findings demonstrate just how hard the cost-of-living crisis is hitting pet owners,” said Dr. Claire Jenkins, Founder and CEO at VetChat. “When families are forced to make heartbreaking decisions about their pets’ care, we need to ensure there are accessible, affordable solutions available. That’s where pet telehealth can make a real difference.”
Could Pet Telehealth Be the Answer?
The study also highlighted a major lack of awareness around veterinary telehealth. Only 20% of Australians were aware that online vet services exist, and just 7% had used them. Yet, once made aware of the option, 81% said they would consider using telehealth in the future.
This represents a huge, untapped opportunity. Australians are open to telehealth once they know it’s available. Our focus is on building that awareness and ensuring pet owners understand that VetChat serves to complement in-clinic vet care, not replace it.
The Emotional Burden of Pet Health
The survey reinforced the deep emotional bond Australians have with their pets. A staggering 97% of respondents said their pet being sick impacts their own mental health, while 71% view their pets like children in terms of the care and attention they provide.
“This isn’t just about pet health, it’s about the well-being of the family as a collective,” Dr. Jenkins added. “When pets thrive, so do their owners. By filling the gaps in access to care, VetChat helps protect both pets and the people who love them.”
About the Survey
The research was conducted with a representative sample of 550 Australian pet owners, balanced across metro/regional location, income, insurance status, and age. The data provides insights beyond VetChat’s own customer base and highlights national trends in pet ownership and care.
About VetChat
VetChat is Australia’s leading veterinary telehealth provider, offering fast, affordable online consultations with qualified vets. With a focus on accessibility and peace of mind, VetChat provides general advice and triage services that complement in-person vet care. Last year, VetChat delivered more than 63,000 consultations, with 90% of pet owners connecting to a vet in under two minutes, achieving a 95% satisfaction score.
For more information, visit www.vetchat.com.au.
This represents a huge, untapped opportunity. Australians are open to telehealth once they know it’s available. Our focus is on building that awareness and ensuring pet owners understand that VetChat serves to complement in-clinic vet care, not replace it.
The Emotional Burden of Pet Health
The survey reinforced the deep emotional bond Australians have with their pets. A staggering 97% of respondents said their pet being sick impacts their own mental health, while 71% view their pets like children in terms of the care and attention they provide.
“This isn’t just about pet health, it’s about the well-being of the family as a collective,” Dr. Jenkins added. “When pets thrive, so do their owners. By filling the gaps in access to care, VetChat helps protect both pets and the people who love them.”
About the Survey
The research was conducted with a representative sample of 550 Australian pet owners, balanced across metro/regional location, income, insurance status, and age. The data provides insights beyond VetChat’s own customer base and highlights national trends in pet ownership and care.
About VetChat
VetChat is Australia’s leading veterinary telehealth provider, offering fast, affordable online consultations with qualified vets. With a focus on accessibility and peace of mind, VetChat provides general advice and triage services that complement in-person vet care. Last year, VetChat delivered more than 63,000 consultations, with 90% of pet owners connecting to a vet in under two minutes, achieving a 95% satisfaction score.
For more information, visit www.vetchat.com.au.
Connect with VetChat on Social Media:
- Facebook: @VetChat
- Instagram: @vetchataustralia
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