Veterinary medicine has come a long way—our pets are living longer, healthier lives thanks to advanced diagnostics, surgical options, and specialized treatments. But with progress comes a reality many families face: veterinary care can be expensive, especially in emergencies.

At Oak Creek Veterinary Care, we see firsthand how hard it can be when an unexpected illness or injury collides with financial stress. No pet parent should have to choose between their wallet and their best friend. That’s why we believe it’s important to talk openly about tools like pet insurance and payment plans that can help families prepare before the unexpected happens.

Why Pet Insurance Matters

Accidents and illnesses don’t follow a schedule. A torn ACL, a sudden bout of pancreatitis, or a swallowed toy can lead to bills that climb quickly. Pet insurance helps by reimbursing you for a portion of eligible expenses, turning overwhelming costs into more manageable ones.

It isn’t about expecting the worst—it’s about being prepared for the “just in case” moments so your focus can stay on helping your pet recover, not worrying about the bill.

Choosing the Right Pet Insurance

Not all policies are the same, and choosing one can feel overwhelming. Here are a few key points to consider:

  • Coverage type: Some policies cover accidents only, while others include accidents, illnesses, prescriptions, and even wellness care.
  • Exclusions: Pre-existing conditions and certain breed-specific issues may not be covered.
  • Reimbursement model: Pet insurance does not work like human health insurance. You are responsible for paying the bill up front, and then your insurance provider reimburses you after you file a claim. Most plans reimburse a percentage (like 70–90%) of eligible costs, while others use a set fee schedule
  • Deductible and monthly premium: Balance what you can afford monthly with what you’d be responsible for at the time of treatment.

Because plans vary so much, we recommend using a comparison tool like Pawlicy Advisor. It allows you to review multiple providers side-by-side, so you can find a plan that fits your pet’s needs and your budget.

Additional Payment Options

Pet insurance isn’t the only option. For clients who may not have coverage in place, we also work with third-party payment providers to make veterinary care more accessible:

  • CareCredit – A healthcare credit card that offers special financing options
  • Scratchpay – Flexible payment plans that can be tailored to your financial situation.

Both give families the ability to move forward with important treatments while spreading costs out in a more manageable way.

Our Commitment

Our mission has always been to provide progressive medicine and compassionate care in a family-focused setting. Talking about money and medicine together isn’t easy—but we believe honesty and preparation help protect pets and strengthen the bond between pets and their people.

As we recognize National Pet Insurance Month this September, we encourage you to explore your options. A little research today could mean peace of mind tomorrow.

Have questions about pet insurance, CareCredit, or Scratchpay? Our team is always here to help guide you toward resources, so you can feel confident about your pet’s care.