Why Skipping Wellness Visits Can Cost You More in the Long Run
At Welleby Veterinary Hospital, we know how easy it is to delay a routine check-up. Your pet seems healthy, your schedule is full, and it might feel like you’re saving money by skipping a visit. But the truth is, preventive care is the most affordable kind of veterinary care—and skipping it can lead to bigger, more expensive problems down the road.
Here’s why wellness visits are worth it—and how they actually save you money over time.
What Is a Wellness Visit?
A wellness visit is a routine check-up designed to:
- Catch problems early before they become serious
- Monitor weight, behavior, and lifestyle changes
- Provide parasite prevention
- Keep vaccinations up to date to prevent serious infections
- Establish a health baseline for your pet over time and cultivate a strong relationship with your veterinarian. This will help us gain a deeper understanding of your pet’s typical behavior and align your care preferences effectively.
It’s your pet’s yearly physical exam—and it’s one of the most important things you can do to protect both their health and your wallet.
The Real Cost of Skipping Preventive Care
When issues go unnoticed, they become harder (and more expensive) to treat.
| Example Problem | Treatable During a Wellness Visit | Cost If Caught Late |
|---|---|---|
| Dental disease | Early detection → cleaning ($400-$600) | Extractions, surgery ($800–$3,000) |
| Heartworm | Preventative meds ($100–$200/year) | Treatment ($2,000-4,000) |
| Obesity | Nutritional counseling + monitoring | Diabetes, arthritis, meds ($1,000+/year) |
| Skin conditions | Topical medications and allergy management | Infections, steroids, chronic issues ($500–$2,000/year) |
It’s Not Just About Emergencies—It’s About Avoiding Them
A surprise trip to the emergency vet can cost anywhere from $800 to $5,000 depending on what’s wrong. Regular check-ups give you and your vet the opportunity to get ahead of problems—before they require overnight stays, surgeries, or round-the-clock treatment.
Unlike emergencies, wellness visits are predictable since you can plan and budget for them.
Real Numbers: Preventive Care vs. Emergency Costs
Here’s what the ASPCA and national studies show:
| Type of Care | Average Annual Cost |
|---|---|
| Preventive care for dogs (check-up, parasite screening, vaccines) | $240-540 |
| Preventive care for cats (check up, parasite screening, vaccines) | $190-450 |
| Emergency surgery for illness or injury | $800 – $5,000+ |
| Heartworm prevention (annual) | $150 – $300 |
| Heartworm treatment (if not prevented) | $2,000-4,000 |
That’s a savings of hundreds or even thousands of dollars just by staying ahead of health issues with routine care.
What You Can Do Right Now
If you’re not sure when your pet’s last wellness visit was—or if you’ve fallen behind on vaccines, heartworm prevention, or dental care—we can help.
Our team at Welleby Veterinary Hospital offers:
- Personalized reminders
- A care team that knows your pet’s history
- Appointments designed to make visits low-stress and efficient
Final Word: Prevention = Peace of Mind
Wellness visits aren’t just about cost savings; they’re about peace of mind. You’ll leave knowing your pet is healthy, protected, and on track for a long, happy life. In the process, you’ll avoid unexpected bills and medical emergencies that could have been prevented.
Book your pet’s wellness visit today and protect what matters most—their health and your peace of mind.
Call us at (954) 748-2002 or request an appointment online!