Human Impacts

1. Barrier to Switching Practices

• A notable share of pet owners feel trapped by complicated medical record transfers (29%), care plan restrictions (16%), and fears of invalidating pet-care agreements if they switch practices. Many are also unaware of viable alternatives.

• Owners often choose vets based on proximity or recommendations, rather than comparing options. Only 44% reported considering more than one practice when choosing their first-opinion veterinary provider (FOP)

2. Increased Stress and Debt for Owners

• Eye-watering vet bills are becoming more common. One owner is still paying off a £13,000 tab for treatments for her cat—and that’s just one case.

• Between 2020 and 2024, vet treatment costs have risen by 70–105%, far exceeding general inflation.

• Many owners lack sufficient savings—over 11 million have less than £1,000 set aside. A significant number have had to stop necessary pet treatment or cancel insurance due to sudden fees.

3. Erosion of Trust & Community Care

• Pet owners report feeling that “if you care, you pay,” hinting at perceived profiteering.

• Small, community‑based clinics—once trusted local fixtures—are being replaced by faceless corporate entities, raising questions of care continuity and personalised treatment.

Financial Impacts

1. Sharp Rise in Costs

• Veterinary costs have surged—from around 60% since 2015, compared to just 35% inflation for services overall.

• Practices markup medications substantially, and many pet owners are uninformed about cheaper online

2. Limited Competition & Transparency

• The consolidation of independent practices and dominance by just six corporate groups (owning ~60% of the market) have weakened competition.

• Pricing is often opaque; many pet owners do not get clear, upfront cost estimates or notice of lower-cost