12 Vets That Accept Care Credit
If your pet requires medical care and you’re looking for financial assistance, CareCredit is one of the most accessible options. CareCredit allows you to cover vet bills and pay them off over time with manageable monthly payments. Whether it’s a routine check-up or emergency surgery, finding a vet that accepts CareCredit is essential to ease the financial burden.
Key Takeaways: Quick Answers to Common Questions
- Can I use CareCredit at any vet? No, but many vets accept CareCredit; always check in advance.
- What services does CareCredit cover? Routine care, emergency services, surgeries, and more.
- Are there interest-free options? Yes, many vets offer promotional interest-free financing with CareCredit.
- Can CareCredit be used for all pets? Yes, it covers services for dogs, cats, reptiles, birds, and more.
- How do I apply for CareCredit? You can apply online or at participating vet clinics.
- What if I have a low credit score? CareCredit is more flexible than traditional credit cards.
- Can I use CareCredit for pet medications? Yes, it covers medications and preventive care.
- Are there any emergency-specific clinics? Many emergency animal hospitals accept CareCredit.
- Do mobile vets accept CareCredit? Some mobile veterinary services do accept CareCredit.
- How do payment plans work with CareCredit? Plans can vary, with options from 6 to 24 months or more.
- Is CareCredit widely accepted nationwide? Yes, many veterinary clinics across the U.S. accept CareCredit.
- What’s the application process like? Fast and straightforward, often with instant approval.
1. Banfield Pet Hospital: Comprehensive Pet Care in Every State 🏥🐕
Banfield Pet Hospital is a nationwide chain offering everything from wellness checks to surgeries, all of which can be financed using CareCredit. With locations inside PetSmart stores across the U.S., they are easily accessible and provide high-quality care for pets of all types.
| Location | Phone Number | 💡 Tip |
|---|---|---|
| Nationwide (Inside PetSmart) | 1-866-894-7927 | Ask about their Optimum Wellness Plans for preventive care financing. |
💡 Pro Tip: You can use CareCredit not just for treatments, but for routine visits and preventive care as well!
2. VCA Animal Hospitals: Trusted Name with Nationwide Reach 🐈🐾
VCA Animal Hospitals operate in multiple states, offering a range of veterinary services including emergency care, diagnostics, and surgeries. They are well-known for accepting CareCredit and offering flexible payment plans.
| Location | Phone Number | 💡 Tip |
|---|---|---|
| Nationwide | 1-800-822-7387 | Ask about their CareClub Wellness Plans, which can also be financed with CareCredit. |
💡 Pro Tip: If you’re a regular visitor to VCA, sign up for their loyalty programs to save even more.
3. BluePearl Pet Hospital: Emergency and Specialty Care 🏥🐾
Specializing in emergency and specialty pet care, BluePearl Pet Hospital accepts CareCredit at all their locations. From surgeries to specialized treatments for chronic conditions, they offer excellent care options across the country.
| Location | Phone Number | 💡 Tip |
|---|---|---|
| Nationwide | 1-855-276-7387 | Emergency services can also be financed through CareCredit, often with interest-free options. |
💡 Pro Tip: BluePearl is an excellent choice if your pet needs urgent care or specialized treatments.
4. The Animal Medical Center: Top-Tier Care in NYC 🗽🐶
The Animal Medical Center in New York City is one of the top veterinary hospitals in the country. They accept CareCredit for a wide variety of services, from advanced diagnostics to specialized surgeries.
| Location | Phone Number | 💡 Tip |
|---|---|---|
| New York City, NY | 1-212-838-8100 | Book ahead for specialty services, as they tend to fill up quickly. |
💡 Pro Tip: They also offer telehealth consultations that can be financed with CareCredit.
5. PetVet Care Centers: Full-Service Clinics Across the U.S. 🐕🦺
PetVet Care Centers provide comprehensive veterinary services across the nation. They are known for their preventive care, surgical services, and wellness programs, all of which can be financed using CareCredit.
| Location | Phone Number | 💡 Tip |
|---|---|---|
| Nationwide | 1-888-884-8387 | Inquire about long-term payment plans through CareCredit. |
💡 Pro Tip: Great for routine visits and ongoing care if you prefer a consistent vet.
6. Vetco Clinics: Affordable Care Inside Petco 🏪🐾
Vetco, located inside many Petco stores, offers affordable wellness and preventive care. They accept CareCredit for vaccinations, microchipping, and other preventive treatments.
| Location | Phone Number | 💡 Tip |
|---|---|---|
| Nationwide (Inside Petco) | 1-877-838-7468 | Check out their affordable vaccine packages. |
💡 Pro Tip: If you’re looking for quick preventive care, Vetco is an excellent, affordable option.
7. Lap of Love: At-Home Euthanasia and Hospice Care 🏠❤️
Lap of Love provides at-home euthanasia and hospice care services, ensuring a peaceful and dignified experience for your pet. They accept CareCredit, making it easier to afford this compassionate service.
| Location | Phone Number | 💡 Tip |
|---|---|---|
| Nationwide | 1-855-933-5683 | Schedule ahead for at-home services. |
💡 Pro Tip: Lap of Love’s gentle approach is comforting for both pets and owners during difficult times.
8. SPCA Veterinary Services: Non-Profit and Affordable 🐕🦷
Many SPCA (Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals) locations offer veterinary services at lower costs. These clinics often accept CareCredit for both routine and emergency services.
| Location | Phone Number | 💡 Tip |
|---|---|---|
| Nationwide | Check your local SPCA | Visit their website to find specific services near you. |
💡 Pro Tip: SPCA clinics often have discounted rates, making it an even more affordable option when paired with CareCredit.
9. VetCor: 500+ Locations Nationwide for Every Pet’s Need 🏥🐕
With over 500 locations across the U.S., VetCor offers a range of veterinary services from regular check-ups to emergency surgeries. They are widely recognized for accepting CareCredit.
| Location | Phone Number | 💡 Tip |
|---|---|---|
| Nationwide | 1-781-749-8151 | Ask about wellness plans that pair with CareCredit for maximum savings. |
💡 Pro Tip: VetCor is an excellent option for consistent care with a flexible payment plan.
10. MedVet: Specialized and Emergency Pet Care 🏥🐈
MedVet is a specialty and emergency veterinary hospital network that accepts CareCredit at all of their locations. They focus on critical care and specialized treatments like oncology and cardiology.
| Location | Phone Number | 💡 Tip |
|---|---|---|
| Nationwide | 1-800-793-9838 | Emergency and specialty care can be financed with CareCredit. |
💡 Pro Tip: Great option if your pet needs highly specialized care or advanced diagnostics.
11. Southern Veterinary Partners: Affordable Care Across the South 🌴🐾
Southern Veterinary Partners (SVP) operates in multiple Southern states, offering a variety of services including routine care, surgery, and emergency treatments. They accept CareCredit for all services.
| Location | Phone Number | 💡 Tip |
|---|---|---|
| Southern States | 1-205-453-4760 | Contact your local branch for appointment availability. |
💡 Pro Tip: SVP clinics are known for their compassionate and community-driven approach.
12. Heart + Paw: Full-Service and Modern Veterinary Clinics 🏥🐶
Heart + Paw clinics combine modern technology with compassionate care, offering full-service veterinary solutions. They accept CareCredit for everything from wellness exams to surgeries.
| Location | Phone Number | 💡 Tip |
|---|---|---|
| Nationwide | 1-866-204-8821 | Ask about their tailored pet wellness plans. |
💡 Pro Tip: Their modern approach includes digital records and telemedicine, making it a convenient choice for busy pet owners.
Final Thoughts: Finding the Right Vet That Accepts CareCredit
Using CareCredit to finance your pet’s healthcare is an excellent way
to manage costs while ensuring your pet gets the care they need. Whether you’re looking for emergency services, routine care, or specialized treatment, these 12 nationwide options will make finding a CareCredit-accepting vet simple and stress-free.
Quick Recap: Essential Tips for Using CareCredit at the Vet
- Banfield Pet Hospital: Great for wellness plans and routine care.
- VCA Animal Hospitals: Comprehensive services with CareCredit payment plans.
- BluePearl Pet Hospital: Ideal for emergencies and specialized treatments.
- The Animal Medical Center (NYC): Advanced care with CareCredit acceptance.
- PetVet Care Centers: Affordable care with financing options.
- Vetco Clinics: Quick and affordable preventive care inside Petco.
- Lap of Love: At-home hospice and euthanasia services.
- SPCA Veterinary Services: Non-profit, affordable care with CareCredit.
- VetCor: Over 500 locations for routine and emergency care.
- MedVet: Specialized care with flexible financing.
- Southern Veterinary Partners: Affordable care across Southern states.
- Heart + Paw: Modern, full-service veterinary clinics.
By choosing a clinic that accepts CareCredit, you can ensure your pet gets the treatment they deserve without stressing over upfront costs. 🐾💙
Comment 1: “How do I apply for CareCredit, and can I use it immediately after approval?”
Applying for CareCredit is a straightforward process, and yes, in most cases, you can use it immediately upon approval. You can apply online through the CareCredit website, by phone, or directly at participating veterinary clinics. The application typically takes just a few minutes to complete and asks for basic personal information, such as your name, address, social security number, and income details. CareCredit runs a quick credit check, and in many cases, applicants receive an approval decision almost instantly.
Once approved, you’ll receive a virtual CareCredit card number that you can use immediately. This is particularly useful if you’re at the vet’s office and need to finance an unexpected treatment right away. The physical card is mailed to you within a couple of weeks, but you don’t have to wait for it to start using your account. Many veterinary clinics even help patients apply on-site, so if you’re at the clinic and need financing on the spot, it’s a smooth and quick process. Just make sure to check with the clinic beforehand to confirm they accept CareCredit, and inquire about any promotional offers like interest-free financing for a certain period.
Comment 2: “What exactly can I use CareCredit for at the vet? Does it cover prescriptions and preventative care?”
CareCredit is incredibly versatile when it comes to veterinary expenses. You can use it for almost all veterinary services, including routine wellness exams, vaccinations, dental cleanings, and even major surgeries like spaying or neutering. It also covers emergency care, diagnostics like X-rays and ultrasounds, and specialized treatments such as oncology, cardiology, or orthopedics.
But it doesn’t stop there—CareCredit can also be used for prescriptions and medications your vet prescribes, as well as preventive care items like flea and tick preventatives, heartworm medications, and special diets. Even the cost of medical supplies such as bandages, cones, or supplements can be financed with CareCredit. This wide range of coverage makes it an excellent resource not just for emergency treatments, but also for routine health maintenance and ongoing treatment for chronic conditions. In short, if it’s a veterinary-related expense, there’s a good chance CareCredit can help you cover it.
Comment 3: “How do promotional financing options with CareCredit work? Is interest-free financing really interest-free?”
Promotional financing is one of the most attractive features of CareCredit. Many vets offer interest-free financing on CareCredit for 6, 12, or even 24 months, depending on the clinic and the size of your bill. These promotional plans are often referred to as “deferred interest” plans, meaning that as long as you pay off your balance within the promotional period, you won’t be charged any interest.
However, it’s essential to read the fine print. While the financing is truly interest-free if paid off within the promotional period, if you don’t pay off the full amount by the end of that period, interest will accrue from the original purchase date at a high rate—often around 26.99%. This retroactive interest can add up quickly, so it’s crucial to make sure you have a clear plan to pay off the balance on time. The good news is that CareCredit allows you to make early payments without penalties, so you can chip away at your balance as you’re able. It’s an excellent option if you need to spread out payments but want to avoid hefty interest charges.
Comment 4: “What if my vet doesn’t accept CareCredit? Are there alternatives, or can I convince them to join?”
If your current vet doesn’t accept CareCredit, you still have a few options. First, you could ask your vet if they’re willing to start accepting CareCredit. Many veterinary practices are open to joining because it provides a payment solution for clients who otherwise might not be able to afford services. You can even offer to provide information from CareCredit’s website, which details how easy it is for businesses to enroll.
If convincing them isn’t an option or they decline, consider seeking out another veterinary clinic that does accept CareCredit. With the number of CareCredit-accepting clinics growing, you can likely find one near you. Additionally, there are other financing options, like Scratchpay, which many vets also accept. Scratchpay offers payment plans for veterinary services and doesn’t require a credit card, working more like a short-term loan. While CareCredit is widely accepted and offers great promotional terms, it’s worth exploring these alternatives if your vet is not onboard with CareCredit.
Comment 5: “What’s the difference between CareCredit and pet insurance? Can I use both?”
CareCredit and pet insurance serve different purposes, and you can indeed use both in combination to manage veterinary expenses. CareCredit is a healthcare credit card designed to finance both routine and emergency vet services, allowing you to pay off large bills over time, often with promotional interest-free periods. It’s ideal for pet owners who need immediate financial relief to cover the cost of procedures or treatments that they might not be able to afford upfront.
Pet insurance, on the other hand, acts more like traditional health insurance, reimbursing you for a portion of your vet bills after you’ve paid the clinic. Most pet insurance policies cover unexpected emergencies, illnesses, and injuries, and some plans even cover preventive care like annual exams and vaccinations. However, pet insurance typically doesn’t cover pre-existing conditions, and you must pay the vet out of pocket first before being reimbursed.
You can definitely use both—CareCredit can help you pay the bill upfront, while pet insurance reimburses you afterward, allowing you to manage the immediate financial burden. This combination is particularly helpful if your pet’s treatment costs exceed your budget or if you’re waiting for insurance to process the claim.
Comment 6: “I have a low credit score. Can I still get approved for CareCredit?”
While CareCredit does perform a credit check as part of the application process, they are often more flexible with approval compared to traditional credit cards. Applicants with low or fair credit scores have a reasonable chance of being approved, especially if they have a stable income and a good payment history on other lines of credit. If your credit score is borderline, you might not qualify for a large credit limit initially, but CareCredit may approve you for a smaller amount that can be used immediately for your pet’s care.
Additionally, CareCredit offers opportunities to request credit limit increases after you’ve demonstrated consistent, on-time payments, which can improve your future borrowing power. If you’re concerned about your credit score, it’s still worth applying, as the application process is quick, and you can know almost immediately whether you’re approved. Even if you don’t get a large limit right away, it can still be helpful for covering smaller veterinary expenses or as part of a broader payment strategy.
Comment 7: “Does CareCredit cover exotic pets like birds, reptiles, or rabbits, or is it just for cats and dogs?”
Absolutely, CareCredit can be used for a wide variety of pets beyond just cats and dogs. It covers treatments for birds, reptiles, rabbits, rodents, and many other exotic animals. This is a big advantage for pet owners who have less common pets, as veterinary care for exotics can sometimes be harder to finance due to the specialized nature of their treatments.
Many clinics that care for exotic pets accept CareCredit, allowing you to finance everything from routine check-ups to emergency surgeries and specialized procedures like dental work for rabbits or health assessments for reptiles. Be sure to confirm with the clinic ahead of time that they accept CareCredit, especially if you’re seeing a specialist for exotic pets. This flexibility in coverage makes CareCredit a versatile tool for any pet owner, regardless of species.
Comment 8: “Can I use CareCredit at a mobile vet, or is it only accepted at physical clinics?”
Some mobile veterinary services do accept CareCredit, but this depends on the individual practice. Mobile vets that provide routine care, vaccinations, or even emergency services may offer CareCredit as a payment option, especially if they are affiliated with larger veterinary networks or hospitals. Because mobile vets are becoming increasingly popular for their convenience and ability to reach underserved areas, many are adapting to include flexible payment options like CareCredit.
To find out if a mobile vet accepts CareCredit, it’s best to contact them directly and ask, as this isn’t always listed on their website. In cases where CareCredit is not accepted, you can also inquire about other payment options, like third-party financing or payment plans. If mobile vet services are something you regularly rely on, it’s worth doing a bit of research to find one in your area that offers CareCredit for ease of financing.
Comment 9: “Is there a minimum or maximum amount I can finance with CareCredit at the vet?”
CareCredit doesn’t impose strict limits on the amount you can finance, but the amount available to you is determined by your credit limit, which is based on your creditworthiness at the time of application. There is no official minimum amount you need to finance, meaning you could use CareCredit for smaller expenses, like routine vaccinations or medication, if necessary. As for maximum amounts, this depends on the credit limit you are assigned upon approval.
For large veterinary bills, such as surgeries or emergency treatments, CareCredit allows you to finance up to your approved limit. If your vet bill exceeds your credit limit, you can sometimes request a credit increase, which CareCredit may grant depending on your payment history and financial situation. There’s no hard cap on how much you can finance as long as it falls within your available credit, making it a flexible solution for both minor and major pet health expenses. If you anticipate a significant veterinary bill, it’s worth discussing financing options with both CareCredit and your vet to ensure you’re prepared for the total cost.
Comment 10: “Can I pay off my CareCredit balance early, and are there any penalties for doing so?”
Yes, you can absolutely pay off your CareCredit balance early without any penalties. In fact, paying off your balance ahead of time is a great way to avoid interest charges, particularly if you’re using a promotional financing plan that offers deferred interest. Since CareCredit’s interest rates can be quite high after the promotional period, early repayment helps you avoid retroactive interest charges that could apply if the balance isn’t paid off within the promotional timeframe.
There’s no prepayment penalty, which means you can make additional payments or pay off the full balance at any time, even if you’re on a structured payment plan. This flexibility can save you money in the long run, especially if you’re able to pay more than the minimum monthly payment. The sooner you eliminate your balance, the less likely you are to incur interest, making CareCredit a cost-effective financing option if managed carefully.
Comment 11: “Does CareCredit work for routine check-ups and wellness visits, or is it only for emergencies?”
CareCredit is versatile and covers both routine check-ups and emergency visits. You can use it for regular veterinary services like annual wellness exams, vaccinations, dental cleanings, and even preventive treatments such as flea and tick preventatives or heartworm medication. This makes CareCredit an excellent tool for maintaining your pet’s overall health, allowing you to finance these routine expenses without immediate out-of-pocket stress.
It’s not just for emergencies—though CareCredit can certainly be a lifesaver during unexpected situations like surgeries, injuries, or urgent care needs. Having the flexibility to finance both day-to-day care and emergency treatments means you don’t have to worry about skipping important preventive visits due to financial concerns. This balance between everyday pet care and critical treatments makes CareCredit a valuable resource for proactive and reactive health management alike.
Comment 12: “How can I find a vet near me that accepts CareCredit? Are there any tools or directories to help with this?”
Finding a vet that accepts CareCredit is easy thanks to CareCredit’s online provider directory. On the CareCredit website, there’s a “Find a Location” tool where you can search by your zip code or city to locate nearby veterinary practices that accept the card. This tool lets you filter results based on the type of care you need, such as general veterinary services, emergency care, or specialized treatments like oncology or dental care. You can also refine your search to include practices that offer specific financing plans, such as promotional interest-free options.
Once you’ve found a clinic, it’s always a good idea to call and confirm that they still accept CareCredit, as policies can sometimes change. Many clinics also display the CareCredit logo on their websites or in their office, making it easy to identify if they offer this payment option. If you’re visiting a new vet for the first time, checking in advance ensures you’re prepared with the right payment plan in place. Additionally, the CareCredit mobile app allows you to quickly find nearby providers on the go, giving you peace of mind in case of emergencies or when traveling with your pet.
Comment 13: “Can I use CareCredit for specialty services like pet physical therapy or acupuncture?”
Yes, CareCredit can be used for a variety of specialty services, including pet physical therapy, acupuncture, chiropractic care, and even alternative treatments. As long as the provider is registered with CareCredit and accepts it as a form of payment, you can finance these treatments the same way you would for routine veterinary care or emergency services. Specialty care is becoming more common for pets, particularly for those recovering from surgery, dealing with chronic pain, or managing long-term conditions, and CareCredit’s flexibility makes it easier to afford these often costly treatments.
Many specialized veterinary hospitals offer physical therapy or rehabilitation services to help pets regain mobility or alleviate discomfort. CareCredit can cover consultations, treatment sessions, and any equipment your pet might need, such as braces or mobility aids. Similarly, if your pet requires acupuncture or other holistic treatments to manage pain or improve their quality of life, CareCredit ensures you won’t have to forgo these beneficial therapies due to cost. It’s a helpful option for pet owners who want to explore all avenues of care, including those that might fall outside traditional veterinary medicine.
Comment 14: “Does CareCredit only work for pet health, or can I use it for other types of healthcare expenses?”
CareCredit is not limited to pet health; it’s actually a healthcare credit card that covers a wide range of medical expenses for both humans and pets. You can use CareCredit for everything from dental care, vision services, and dermatology to hearing aids, cosmetic procedures, and even elective surgeries for yourself. This makes it a versatile financial tool for covering both personal and pet-related health costs.
For pet owners, CareCredit is especially useful because it extends beyond traditional vet visits and can be applied to a range of services like pet grooming, boarding, or even pet supplies in some cases, depending on the provider. The ability to use the same account for your own medical treatments and your pet’s healthcare creates convenience and flexibility. Whether you’re scheduling a dental check-up for yourself or an emergency surgery for your dog, CareCredit is designed to bridge the financial gap and allow you to prioritize both personal and pet health without separate accounts or credit lines.
Comment 15: “Can CareCredit be used at animal shelters for adoption fees or other services?”
While CareCredit is primarily used for veterinary services, some animal shelters and rescue organizations that provide medical care, spaying/neutering, or vaccinations as part of the adoption process may accept CareCredit. This can be incredibly helpful if you’re adopting a pet and the shelter offers medical services that can be financed, such as pre-adoption vaccinations, microchipping, or even spaying or neutering.
However, not all shelters accept CareCredit for adoption fees themselves, so it’s essential to check with the specific organization in advance. If the shelter has an in-house veterinary clinic or partners with local vets for post-adoption care, you might be able to use CareCredit for these services once you’ve adopted your pet. This can make adopting a pet more manageable by spreading the cost of initial medical care over time, allowing you to focus on welcoming your new furry family member home without financial strain.