What if my pet has an emergency & I can't afford the vet?

Even if you have no money to spend on emergency veterinary care, there are still steps you can take during a pet emergency.

NOTE: If your pet is in immediate danger, go to the nearest open veterinary clinic. This includes a pet that has collapsed, is struggling to breathe, is seriously injured or actively seizing. Call the veterinary clinic on your way, if possible, or have someone call on your behalf. Minutes matter in these situations, and your pet needs immediate attention. You can have conversations about cost when you arrive.

If you suspect your pet ate something poisonous, you can also call the ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center 24/7 at (888) 426-4435. They can tell you whether your pet needs emergency care or can be safely monitored at home. Note that a consultation fee may apply, but it can be far less than an unnecessary emergency vet visit.

For everything else, start here:

What do I do first?

Call the nearest veterinary hospital or lower-cost clinic before you arrive, and tell them two things:
1. What is happening with your pet
2. Let them know that money is a serious barrier

When you speak to the clinic, they may be able to tell you whether this is a true emergency, and they can tell you what your realistic options are at their clinic before you even arrive. If they cannot help you, they may be able to refer you to a community partner who can.

You are not alone. Our PetSmart Charities–Gallup research found that 94% of veterinarians say clients' financial situations sometimes or often limit the care they can provide. Know that this is a conversation vet clinic teams have more often than you may think. Veterinarians choose this profession because they love animals and want to help them thrive. They’ll work with you to find the best way to support your pet’s health.

What should I say on the phone?

Here is a script for your phone call, use these exact words or a variation that communicates the main points:
My pet is having an emergency. [Describe it in one sentence]. I want to get them care, but I have very little money right now. What are my options at your clinic? Do you offer payment options, or have lower-cost options?

Being direct saves time and gets you real answers. The focus should be on stabilizing your pet in an emergency situation, but clinics may be able to explain a payment arrangement, or point you to a nearby nonprofit or community clinic that can help.

Where can I get emergency care for less?

Nonprofit clinics, community clinics, and veterinary school hospitals with community clinics often cost significantly less than private emergency hospitals, and some handle urgent needs. Use our Affordable Vet Care Finder to see what's near you, and call before going to confirm they can take an urgent case today.

How do I handle the bill if I have to use a full-price emergency vet?

Ask for a tiered plan that will stabilizate your pet's condition before treatment begins. In our study of practicing veterinarians, 81% say they often or always recommend an alternative treatment plan when care is declined due to cost. This means most vets are prepared to offer you a version of care that fits your situation.

Here are some questions you can ask:

• "What does my pet need right now get them stable, and what can be done later at a more affordable clinic?"
• "Can we start with an exam and go step by step, instead of the full estimate?"
• "Do you offer payment plans or third-party financing?"
• "Is there a charitable fund through this clinic or elsewhere that could help?"

What if I still can't cover the cost of care?

Ask the clinic directly: "If you don't have any solutions here today, where could you send me?" Vet teams are valuable resources and usually know the local safety nets available, including assistance funds, nonprofit clinics, and other programs. Once your pet is stable, families can also raise funds through crowdfunding and veterinary grant programs. Learn more about crowdfunding here, or view our full guide to accessing veterinary care for more information on longer-term options, from assistance funds to lower-cost ongoing care.

Frequently asked questions