About Pet Health Insurance

Why Consider Pet Insurance?

In quiet exam rooms and bustling veterinary clinics across the U.S., a heartbreaking dilemma plays out daily — Economic Euthanasia. This clinical term masks a deeply emotional reality: pet parents and companion animal guardians are often forced to make the agonizing decision to euthanize a beloved pet, not because a condition is untreatable — but because treatment is unaffordable.

Recent data reveals a sobering truth:

  • 2 out of every 3 pets (66%) are euthanized in the U.S. due to financial constraints.

  • 1 in 2 guardians would consider euthanasia if their pet were diagnosed with a condition requiring costly treatment they couldn't afford.

In an era where the cost of living and medical debt are rising sharply, pet guardians are too often caught between caring for a cherished animal and protecting their financial stability. This should never be a choice anyone has to make.

How Can Pet Insurance Help Combat Economic Euthanasia?

Pet insurance provides a vital financial safety net that reduces the risk of unexpected veterinary costs becoming unmanageable. It can mean the difference between life-saving care and tragic loss.

According to MarketWatch (April 2024):

  • Pet insurance averages $768 annually for dogs and $324 for cats, or about $49/month.

  • CareCredit reports the average yearly veterinary costs (wellness + emergency care) range:

    • $374–$965 for cats

    • $534–$1,285 for dogs

But routine care is only part of the picture. The greatest financial burden for most pet parents and companion animal guardians comes not from vaccinations or checkups — but from sudden illness or unexpected injury. These emergencies can result in treatment costs that quickly escalate into the thousands.

To highlight the reality, MarketWatch analyzed claims data from top pet insurance providers and compiled average costs for common veterinary emergencies. These figures — shown in the chart to the right — illustrate just how unpredictable and expensive critical care can be.

Estimated Costs for Emergency Veterinary Care

A Call to Preparedness

The future of responsible pet guardianship includes financial planning. Pet insurance is one of the most effective tools available to protect your pet and your peace of mind. While no policy covers everything, even partial coverage can mean the difference between “we can try” and “we can’t afford to.”

At Treasured Pets, we believe that Economic Euthanasia is a preventable tragedy. That’s why we’re actively working to create insurance subsidy programs and advocate for broader access to affordable veterinary care.

Check back soon for more information on our Subsidized Pet Insurance Program, launching in Spring 2026.