- Strong overall satisfaction: More than 60% of pet owners report being extremely satisfied with staff friendliness, staff knowledge, and quality of services.
- Cost remains a pressure point: About two-thirds of owners are extremely or somewhat satisfied with cost, though it ranks lower than other service attributes.
- Access presents opportunity: Hours of operation and affordability remain areas that can influence loyalty and visit frequency.
- Communication drives value: Proactive discussions around preventive care, pricing transparency, and convenience options can reinforce trust and follow-through.
Most U.S. pet owners report high satisfaction with the veterinary practice they typically visit, according to data from the AVMA’s 2025 Pet Ownership and Demographic Sourcebook.
Across key service measures, more than 60% of pet owners say they are extremely satisfied with staff friendliness, staff knowledge, and quality of services. Even in more price-sensitive areas such as cost of care, roughly two-thirds of respondents indicate they are either extremely or somewhat satisfied.
The findings affirm the emphasis many veterinary teams place on communication, compassion, and service experience. Positive client perception plays a critical role in adherence to recommendations, return visits, and referrals.
At the same time, the data highlight areas where practices may further strengthen client relationships. Satisfaction ratings were comparatively lower for hours of operation and cost of services — factors that can influence whether pet owners pursue recommended care or consider alternative providers.
AVMA suggests practices can build on their strengths through intentional communication and small operational adjustments. Clear explanations of preventive care benefits, transparent estimates, discussion of payment options, and emphasizing available convenience tools — such as online pharmacies, digital scheduling, and reminders — may enhance perceived value.
Reassessing access points, including limited evening or weekend hours or clearly communicating urgent-care referral options, may also improve client satisfaction among busy households.
Beyond operational strategy, the data may serve as an internal morale boost. Veterinary professionals may underestimate how positively clients view their interactions, and sharing satisfaction findings with team members can reinforce confidence and engagement.
Information sourced from the AVMA 2025 Pet Ownership and Demographic Sourcebook.
