Understanding why some pet owners do not seek veterinary care can provide useful insight into where opportunities exist to reinforce the value of preventive care and regular checkups. It can also reveal how they view the role of the veterinarian.
Data from the 2025 AVMA Pet Ownership and Demographics Sourcebook demonstrates a large percentage of pet owners’ animals did not get injured or sick or need vaccines or a check-up.
Source: AVMA, July 31, 2026. Link. Clear, consistent communication can help pet owners understand what routine checkups typically include, why preventive care matters, and how the veterinarian’s recommendations are tailored to their pet and circumstances.
Preventive care and regular checkups are about maintaining health, not just treating illness.”
INSIGHTS: Changing how we talk about veterinary care can change owners’ perceptions about the value and importance of regular veterinary care, and encourage them to prioritize wellness visits. See the AVMA’s Language of Veterinary Care Initiative. <Link>
Image: Link.
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