Why Pet Health Risks Are Rising and What You Can Do About It

Rising pet health risks and prevention tips

Caring for a dog or cat has always come with responsibility, but the landscape is shifting. Recent data from Embrace Pet Insurance shows that pet health risks and veterinary costs are climbing. Unless pet owners stay ahead of the curve, their furry companions may face greater danger and heavier bills.

In this article, we’ll explore why these risks are on the rise, the most common health issues to watch for, and practical steps you can take to protect your pet’s health and your peace of mind.

What the Data Tells Us

A rise in claims, a rise in costs

In 2025, Embrace’s internal data revealed several important trends:

• A record-high individual claim reached more than $35,000 for a mixed-breed dog with a severe spinal infection.
• Specific breeds face higher risks. French Bulldogs, for example, had the highest number of allergy claims and averaged about $490 per claim.
• Some regions report higher veterinary costs, including California, New York, and Washington, D.C.
• About one in five claims were for routine wellness care, showing that preventive measures are becoming more common.

Why the increase?

Several overlapping factors are fueling the rise in both health issues and vet bills:

• Veterinary care is becoming more advanced and more expensive.
• Pets are living longer, which naturally increases age-related health problems.
• Pet owners now see their pets as family, and they’re more willing to pursue advanced treatments—leading to higher overall costs.

The Most Common Health Risks Facing Pets

Breed-specific vulnerabilities

Different breeds have different health profiles.

• Labrador Retrievers have the highest number of arthritis claims.
• Golden Retrievers experience the most skin tumor claims.
• French Bulldogs lead in allergy-related cases.

Knowing your pet’s breed-related risks helps you monitor symptoms early and talk to your vet about prevention.

Parasites, outdoor exposure and seasonal risks

Warmer weather and more outdoor activity mean greater exposure to parasites and injuries. Fleas, ticks, and heartworm thrive in warmer conditions, and pets that spend time outdoors need year-round protection.

Aging and chronic conditions

As pets get older, they become more prone to chronic illnesses like arthritis, heart disease, and kidney problems. Senior pets require more frequent checkups and lifestyle adjustments to maintain comfort and quality of life.

Rising cost of care leading to difficult choices

Vet bills are rising sharply, putting many pet owners in tough positions. Surveys show that most pet owners underestimate how much care really costs—and more than half say they would struggle to pay an unexpected bill over $2,500. Financial stress can lead some to delay treatment or even consider euthanasia when faced with unaffordable emergencies.

Practical Steps to Protect Your Pet and Your Wallet

Stay current on preventive care

Preventive care doesn’t guarantee perfect health, but it dramatically lowers the odds of major illness. Focus on:

• Regular checkups with your vet (twice a year for older pets)
• Vaccinations, flea and tick control, and heartworm prevention
• Routine dental care
• Watching for early signs like changes in energy, appetite, or weight

Understand your breed’s risks

Ask your vet about the most common conditions for your pet’s breed and what can be done to reduce those risks. Early screenings, diet adjustments, and specific exercises can make a big difference.

Budget and plan for emergencies

Unexpected health problems happen—and they can be expensive. To prepare:

• Build a pet emergency fund
• Explore wellness or insurance plans
• Ask your vet about cost estimates and payment options

Consider pet health insurance or wellness add-on plans

Pet insurance can protect you from financial shocks. Look at the deductible, reimbursement rate, and exclusions before choosing a plan. Enrolling a young and healthy pet often gives you better coverage and fewer restrictions on pre-existing conditions.

Invest in your pet’s lifestyle

Many diseases can be prevented or delayed through daily habits:

• Feed a balanced, age-appropriate diet
• Keep your pet at a healthy weight
• Provide regular physical activity
• Ensure mental stimulation, especially for indoor pets
• Give your senior pet gentle exercise and comfort

Monitor health trends and act early

The earlier you catch a problem, the easier and cheaper it is to treat. Watch for:

• Limping, stiffness, or reluctance to move
• Recurring skin or ear infections
• Appetite changes
• Coughing, snoring, or breathing trouble

Never ignore small changes—early intervention saves both money and heartache.

How This Impacts You as a Pet Owner

Pet health risks are increasing across the board. Understanding this helps you shift from being reactive to being proactive. Every decision you make—from food and exercise to checkups and financial planning—affects your pet’s long-term well-being.

It’s not just about responding to illness but about preventing it. Sustainable pet care means focusing on wellness, not crisis management.

Your Pet’s Future Starts Now

Imagine your pet five years from now—healthy, active, and happy. That future depends on the choices you make today:

• Schedule regular checkups
• Stay on top of vaccinations and preventive care
• Manage weight and diet
• Budget for emergencies
• Address small problems before they grow

You can’t control everything, but you can control your level of preparation. With informed choices, your pet can enjoy more years and a better quality of life.

Conclusion

Pet health risks and veterinary costs are both on the rise, but that doesn’t mean the future has to be uncertain. With consistent preventive care, breed-specific awareness, and smart financial planning, you can protect your pet and avoid unnecessary stress.

Every visit to the vet, every healthy meal, and every walk is an investment in your pet’s well-being. The more proactive you are today, the healthier and happier your furry friend will be tomorrow.

Let’s make a commitment to give our pets not just longer lives—but better ones.