Understanding Vet Fees: What Goes into the Cost of Care?
In the UK we are incredibly lucky to have the NHS, which follows the model of ‘free at the point of use’, meaning we do not receive a bill after each treatment. In reality, we do pay for this service through our taxes and National Insurance contributions. However, we never get to see the real costs of the professional service we receive every time we visit our doctor, dentist or hospital, so when we receive a bill for our pet’s care, we have nothing to compare it to.
Why Vet Care Costs What It Does
Unlike the NHS, there isn’t a free service for our pets, so when they need treatment, there’s usually a cost involved. The price can vary between clinics, but here’s an overview of the main factors that influence those fees:
Professional Time
Vets, just like any other professional, charge for their time and expertise. Becoming a vet takes at least 5 years of university education and training, and vet nurses spend at least 3 years studying. Vets usually start with a salary of £30,000–£35,000, and vet nurses at around £17,000. While these salaries are above the national average, the long training hours and the level of responsibility they carry often don’t compare to other similarly qualified professionals.
Equipment and Facilities
To give your pet the best care, we need access to advanced, often expensive equipment. From blood and urine testing to more complex procedures like x-rays, endoscopy and ultrasound, dentistry and surgeries, we’re able to offer a full range of services. On top of that, we have specialised equipment such as advanced anaesthetic monitoring, intravenous pumps, specialist warming devices, ICU facilities, and more, all of which help ensure your pet’s safety and comfort. Our staff are trained to use this equipment and are required to complete regular, ongoing training to stay up-to-date.
Buildings and Mobile Clinics
Whether we’re running a clinic in a building or a mobile practice, there are costs involved. We pay for rent, utilities, and business rates just like any other business and require a well-maintained vehicle, modified to transport animals and equipment safely.
Registration, Insurance, and Memberships
To practice legally in the UK, vets and vet nurses need to pay to be registered with the Royal College of Veterinary Surgeons, as well as carry full insurance. We also pay for membership of professional bodies like the British Veterinary Association and services like the Veterinary Poisons Service, which helps guide us when pets get into trouble (like eating something they shouldn’t!).
Medication and Prescriptions
You might have noticed that pet medications can be pricier than the ones you see online. The reason? Online pharmacies benefit from buying in bulk at lower prices, while our independent practice faces higher costs. We try our best to keep medicines costs down, but legally we must stick to veterinary-specific medications where possible, which can be more expensive than generic human alternatives. If you'd prefer to source medication yourself, we’re happy to provide a written prescription for a small admin fee - just like your doctor does for private prescriptions.
IT and Communications
We know that life can get busy, so we use technology to make things as easy as possible for you. From online booking systems to personal portals, we strive to provide you with convenience. We even offer 24/7 access to a vet online, so you can send pictures or videos, ask questions, and get advice anytime—all at no extra charge. But keep in mind, all this tech comes with its own set of costs.
Out-of-Hours Charges
Sometimes, your pet needs care outside regular hours - whether it’s a late-night emergency or a weekend issue. When that happens, we may need to bring a vet in outside of their scheduled hours, which can come with a surcharge, much like calling a plumber on a Sunday.
How Can Pet Owners Plan for Vet Fees?
One of the best ways to avoid unexpected vet bills is to keep your pet healthy! Regular exercise, a balanced diet, and preventive care like vaccinations can go a long way. Also, some breeds are more prone to certain health issues, so it’s a good idea to learn about these and take extra precautions.
Even with the best care, our pets can sometimes fall ill, so it’s wise to consider pet health insurance. Many insurance companies offer direct claims, which means you only need to pay your excess at the time of treatment.
How Tribe Vets is Here for You
If you’re ever unsure whether your pet needs to see a vet, don’t hesitate to contact our online service go.vidivet.com/tribe . We’re available 24/7, 365 days a year, and we’ll help you figure out whether your pet needs urgent care or if you can wait. Best of all, this service is completely free for you—because you’re part of our Tribe!
At Tribe Vets, we try to provide a range of treatment options, and give you a written estimate for any procedures. We believe in transparency, so you’ll know exactly what to expect. We even offer discounted Wellness and Senior Screens at the time of annual vaccinations to help catch potential issues early.
Your pet’s health is important to us, and we’re here to support you every step of the way. If you ever have any questions or concerns, feel free to get in touch—we’re always happy to help!
