Vetco Total Care Prices: Everything You Need to Know Before Your Pet’s Next Visit 🏥🐾

Vetco Total Care, a service offered at Petco locations, provides a range of veterinary services from routine check-ups and vaccinations to dental care and diagnostics. With comprehensive pricing options, it can be confusing for pet owners to know exactly what they’re paying for. In this guide, we break down the Vetco Total Care prices, giving you critical insights, tips for saving, and everything you need to know before your next vet visit.

Key Takeaways: Fast Facts About Vetco Total Care Prices

• What is Vetco Total Care? It offers a full range of veterinary services including wellness exams, vaccinations, dental care, and surgery.
• How much is a wellness exam? A standard wellness exam at Vetco Total Care typically costs between $50-$75.
• Do they offer packages? Yes, Vetco offers vaccination and wellness packages that can save you money compared to individual services.
• Is dental care expensive? Dental cleaning starts around $300 and may increase based on your pet’s condition.
• Do they offer insurance or wellness plans? Yes, Petco has wellness plans that cover multiple services and can help reduce your overall costs.

🏆 Vetco Total Care Pricing Breakdown: Services and Costs

Here’s a comprehensive look at the typical pricing for Vetco Total Care services. Keep in mind that prices may vary by location and based on your pet’s specific needs.

💡 Pro Tip: Vetco Total Care often has promotions or discounts on vaccines or wellness services during certain times of the year, such as National Pet Month or Pet Wellness Month.

🐾 What Does a Wellness Exam Cover?

A wellness exam is one of the most important routine services for your pet. At Vetco Total Care, it’s more than just a basic check-up; here’s what the service typically includes:

1. Physical Examination: The vet will check your pet’s overall condition, including their eyes, ears, mouth, skin, coat, and weight. This helps identify any early signs of illness or discomfort.
2. Vital Signs: The vet will measure your pet’s heart rate, respiratory rate, and temperature to ensure everything is normal.
3. Behavioral Assessment: Your pet’s behavior is observed to detect any anxiety, discomfort, or signs of pain. This can help address underlying issues early on.
4. Diet and Nutrition Advice: The vet will discuss your pet’s diet and make recommendations to ensure they are getting the right nutrients for their age, breed, and health status.
5. Parasite Control: During the wellness exam, the vet may discuss options for flea, tick, and heartworm prevention based on your pet’s lifestyle and risk factors.

💡 Pro Tip: Annual wellness exams are critical even for young, healthy pets. They help detect issues early and keep your pet on the path to a long, healthy life.

💉 Are Vaccination Packages Worth It?

Vetco Total Care offers vaccination packages that bundle several vaccines into one visit. Here’s why these packages can save you money and provide convenience:

1. Cost-Effective: Purchasing a package typically costs less than paying for individual vaccines. For example, a single vaccine may cost $25 to $50, but a package covering all core vaccines might range from $90 to $150, depending on the age and health of your pet.
2. Core Vaccines Included: These packages often include essential vaccines like:
   • Rabies: Protects against the deadly rabies virus.
   • Distemper/Parvo Combo: Prevents dangerous viral infections.
   • Leptospirosis: Protects against bacterial infections from contaminated water.
   • Bordetella (Kennel Cough): Required for pets that frequent boarding or grooming facilities.
3. Convenience: Instead of scheduling multiple appointments, vaccination packages allow you to get all your pet’s shots done in one visit, saving you time.

💡 Pro Tip: If you’re unsure which vaccinations your pet needs, consult your vet to tailor a vaccination plan that meets your pet’s age, breed, and lifestyle.

🦷 Is Dental Cleaning Really That Expensive?

Dental cleaning is one of the higher-cost services at Vetco Total Care, but it’s also one of the most critical for your pet’s overall health. Here’s why:

1. Prevention of Periodontal Disease: Pets can develop gum disease and tooth decay just like humans. If left untreated, it can lead to infection, tooth loss, or even organ damage due to bacteria entering the bloodstream.
2. Comprehensive Cleaning: Dental cleanings involve not only cleaning the teeth but also inspecting for broken teeth, oral tumors, or other hidden dental issues. It also includes scaling, polishing, and often anesthesia to ensure a stress-free, thorough cleaning.
3. Price Range: Prices for dental cleaning typically range from $300 to $700, depending on whether additional treatments like extractions are needed. While it’s an investment, it can prevent costly health issues down the road.

💡 Pro Tip: Dental health is essential for overall wellness, so it’s worth the investment. Ask about dental cleaning promotions during Pet Dental Health Month (February), as many clinics offer discounts at that time.

🏷️ How Do Vetco Wellness Plans Work?

Vetco Total Care offers wellness plans that provide preventive care services at a lower overall cost. These plans are designed to keep your pet healthy while helping you manage expenses. Here’s how they work:

1. Comprehensive Coverage: Wellness plans typically cover the cost of routine exams, vaccinations, and lab tests, along with discounts on services like dental cleanings or spay/neuter surgery.
2. Monthly Payment Plans: Instead of paying for each service individually, wellness plans offer a monthly payment option, which spreads out the cost and makes it more affordable. Plans often start around $20 to $40 per month, depending on your pet’s needs.
3. Discounts on Additional Services: Many wellness plans also offer discounts on other services, such as dental care, surgeries, and prescription medications. This can lead to significant savings over time if your pet needs multiple treatments.

💡 Pro Tip: If your pet needs frequent vet visits or has ongoing health issues, a wellness plan can help reduce costs while ensuring they receive the care they need. Be sure to compare different plan tiers to find one that suits your pet’s needs and your budget.

Final Recap: What You Need to Know About Vetco Total Care Prices

• Wellness Exams: $50 – $75 for routine check-ups, vital for preventive care.
• Vaccination Packages: Save money with bundle deals, typically $90 – $150.
• Dental Cleaning: Costs range from $300 – $700, a crucial service to prevent dental disease.
• Surgery & Diagnostics: Spay/neuter ranges from $150 – $500, while diagnostics like bloodwork are between $80 – $200.
• Wellness Plans: Monthly plans starting at $20 – $40, offering preventive care and discounts.

With this comprehensive guide, you’re well-equipped to understand Vetco Total Care’s pricing and how to maximize your pet’s care while staying on budget. 🐕🐈💰

Q: Is the Vetco Total Care wellness plan worth it for older pets with chronic conditions?

The Vetco Total Care wellness plan can be highly beneficial for older pets, especially those with chronic conditions that require frequent vet visits and ongoing care. Here’s a closer look at why it might be worth it for aging pets:

1. Routine Preventive Care: Older pets are more prone to age-related health issues such as arthritis, kidney disease, and heart problems. The wellness plan covers essential preventive care like annual wellness exams, bloodwork, and vaccinations, all of which are crucial for early detection and management of chronic conditions. These routine check-ups allow your vet to monitor changes in your pet’s health over time, ensuring that any new issues are addressed promptly.
2. Diagnostics Included: One of the most valuable features of a wellness plan for older pets is the inclusion of diagnostic tests, such as blood panels, urine tests, and X-rays. These tests help monitor organ function and detect conditions like diabetes or kidney disease early on. Since older pets may require more frequent testing, the cost savings provided by the wellness plan can quickly add up.
3. Savings on Medications and Treatments: Many wellness plans offer discounts on additional services like prescription medications and chronic condition treatments (e.g., arthritis or heart disease). If your older pet requires long-term medications, this discount can make the cost of ongoing care much more manageable.
4. Dental Care Discounts: Dental health is critical for older pets, and many wellness plans offer discounts on dental cleanings, which can be particularly helpful if your pet needs annual cleanings or treatments for dental disease. Poor dental health can lead to more severe health problems, so having access to discounted dental care is a big plus for senior pets.
5. Budget-Friendly Payment Options: For older pets who need frequent vet visits, a wellness plan spreads the cost out over monthly payments instead of requiring large lump sums for each visit. This can help pet owners better manage their budget while ensuring their pet receives consistent, high-quality care.

💡 Pro Tip: If your older pet has multiple chronic conditions or needs regular vet visits, the wellness plan will likely pay for itself through discounted services and included diagnostics. It’s important to review the specific plan to make sure it covers the services your pet needs most frequently.

Q: Can Vetco Total Care help with emergencies, or should I go to a specialized emergency vet?

Vetco Total Care offers a wide range of preventive and routine care, but they are not typically equipped to handle serious medical emergencies. Here’s what you need to know:

1. Routine vs. Emergency Care: Vetco Total Care excels in providing routine services like wellness exams, vaccinations, and dental cleanings. However, if your pet experiences a sudden, life-threatening issue—such as severe trauma, poisoning, or respiratory distress—you should take them to a dedicated emergency veterinary hospital immediately. Emergency vets are equipped with specialized tools, on-call surgical teams, and 24/7 monitoring to handle critical situations.
2. Emergencies Vetco Can Handle: Vetco Total Care can address urgent but non-critical issues, such as minor injuries, skin infections, or gastrointestinal distress. For example, if your pet has an upset stomach or a small wound that requires attention, Vetco can provide treatment. However, if your pet’s condition worsens or if there’s any doubt about the severity of the issue, it’s always safer to visit an emergency vet.
3. Specialized Services: Emergency veterinary hospitals have advanced diagnostic tools like ultrasounds, CT scans, and intensive care units (ICUs) that are not typically available at Vetco Total Care locations. They are also better equipped for emergency surgeries and complex medical cases.
4. Pre-Emergency Checkups: To avoid emergencies, regular checkups at Vetco Total Care are essential, especially for detecting early signs of chronic conditions like heart disease, kidney failure, or diabetes. By catching these issues early, your vet can help you manage them before they turn into an emergency.

💡 Pro Tip: Always keep the contact information for your nearest emergency vet handy. If you’re unsure whether your pet’s condition is urgent, call both Vetco and the emergency vet to get their guidance on where to go. It’s better to err on the side of caution when it comes to emergencies.

Q: How can I save money on Vetco Total Care services?

Vetco Total Care already offers affordable veterinary services, but there are several ways to maximize savings while ensuring your pet receives top-notch care:

1. Wellness Packages and Plans: One of the best ways to save is by enrolling in a wellness plan. These plans typically bundle preventive care services like wellness exams, vaccinations, and diagnostic tests into one monthly payment, spreading out costs and offering a lower price compared to paying for each service individually. Vetco also offers vaccination packages, which are a great way to save if your pet needs multiple vaccines during a single visit.
2. Seasonal Promotions: Vetco frequently runs promotions during special occasions like National Pet Month or Pet Dental Health Month. During these promotions, you might find discounted prices on services such as dental cleanings, wellness exams, and vaccinations. Keep an eye on their website or subscribe to their mailing list to stay informed about upcoming deals.
3. Petco Pals Rewards: If you’re a member of Petco Pals Rewards, you can earn points on every Vetco Total Care purchase, which can later be redeemed for discounts on future services or products. It’s a free program that offers rewards not only for vet visits but also for any purchases made at Petco, including pet food, supplies, and grooming services.
4. Multiple Pets: If you have more than one pet, you may qualify for multi-pet discounts when scheduling services at Vetco. Whether it’s vaccinations or routine check-ups, bringing in both pets during the same visit could result in a lower overall bill.
5. Price Comparisons: While Vetco is known for its competitive pricing, it’s still wise to compare costs with other local veterinary clinics. Some services, like bloodwork or diagnostics, might be cheaper at Vetco, but if you’re planning a major surgery or advanced treatment, it’s worth getting estimates from different providers to ensure you’re getting the best deal.

💡 Pro Tip: If you frequently use Petco for your pet’s needs, consider signing up for the Vital Care plan, which covers wellness exams, routine vaccinations, and discounts on Petco products. The plan is ideal for pet parents who want to combine vet care with discounts on food and supplies.

Q: How do Vetco Total Care’s dental cleaning prices compare to other veterinary clinics?

Vetco Total Care’s dental cleaning prices are often more affordable compared to traditional veterinary clinics, but pricing can vary based on factors like your pet’s age, breed, and the extent of the cleaning needed. Here’s how Vetco’s dental care compares:

1. Base Cleaning Costs: The starting price for dental cleaning at Vetco Total Care typically ranges from $300 to $500, depending on the location and the size of your pet. This includes scaling, polishing, and a full oral exam. Many other veterinary clinics charge upwards of $500 to $700 for a similar service, making Vetco a more budget-friendly option for routine dental care.
2. Anesthesia Costs: Most dental cleanings for pets require anesthesia to ensure the procedure is thorough and stress-free for your pet. The cost of anesthesia is generally included in Vetco’s dental package, whereas at other clinics, anesthesia can sometimes be an additional charge on top of the cleaning fee. Make sure to ask if anesthesia is included when comparing prices.
3. Extractions and Advanced Procedures: If your pet needs tooth extractions or has severe dental disease, the price at Vetco may rise depending on the complexity of the procedure. Extractions can cost anywhere from $10 to $100 per tooth, depending on the size and condition of the tooth. These prices are on par with, or slightly lower than, what you might find at other clinics.
4. Quality of Care: Despite the lower cost, Vetco provides a comprehensive dental cleaning, with the same level of care you’d expect from any other veterinary clinic. They also offer advice on at-home dental care to help you maintain your pet’s oral health between professional cleanings, which can reduce the frequency and cost of future cleanings.

💡 Pro Tip: If your pet needs a dental cleaning, schedule it during Pet Dental Health Month in February, when many clinics, including Vetco, offer discounts on dental services.

Q: What’s included in the Vetco Total Care microchipping service, and is it worth it?

Vetco Total Care’s microchipping service is both affordable and highly recommended for any pet parent. Here’s what’s included and why it’s a valuable investment:

1. Permanent Identification: The microchipping service at Vetco costs between $25 and $50 and includes the insertion of a small microchip under your pet’s skin, usually between the shoulder blades. This chip contains a unique identification number that can be scanned by vets or animal shelters if your pet is lost.
2. Registration: After the microchip is implanted, your pet’s information is entered into a national pet recovery database. You’ll provide your contact details, which can be updated at any time, ensuring that if your pet is found, they can be quickly returned to you.
3. One-Time Cost: Unlike collars or tags, a microchip is a permanent form of identification that doesn’t require maintenance or replacement. Once implanted, it’s active for the lifetime of your pet, making it a one-time expense. Given the relatively low cost, it’s a worthwhile investment for peace of mind.
4. No Monthly Fees: There are no ongoing fees for maintaining the microchip once it’s registered, though some databases may charge a small fee for updating contact information. Vetco Total Care typically offers microchipping as a walk-in service, making it a quick and convenient option for pet owners.

💡 Pro Tip: Microchipping doesn’t replace the need for an ID tag on your pet’s collar, but it serves as a backup form of identification that can’t be lost or removed. Be sure to keep your contact information updated in the microchip registry!

Q: Is the dental cleaning at Vetco Total Care safe for older pets, especially if anesthesia is involved?

Yes, dental cleaning at Vetco Total Care is safe for older pets, but it’s important to consider certain factors, especially when anesthesia is involved. Here’s a detailed breakdown of what you need to know:

1. Pre-Anesthesia Screening: For older pets, anesthesia can be a concern, but Vetco Total Care typically requires pre-anesthesia blood work to ensure your pet’s organs, especially the liver and kidneys, are functioning properly. These organs are responsible for processing anesthesia, so their health is crucial to ensure your pet can safely go under. This screening helps identify any hidden health risks and determines if adjustments in the anesthesia protocol are necessary.
2. Tailored Anesthesia: Anesthesia isn’t a one-size-fits-all procedure. For senior pets, vets at Vetco Total Care will typically use short-acting and reversible anesthetics, which allow your pet to recover more quickly and reduce the strain on their system. Additionally, older pets often receive IV fluids during the procedure to help maintain blood pressure and support their organs throughout anesthesia.
3. Close Monitoring: During the dental procedure, your pet’s vital signs are continuously monitored, including their heart rate, respiratory rate, and oxygen levels. This ensures that any potential complications are caught and managed immediately. In older pets, this careful monitoring is critical because they may be more sensitive to anesthesia.
4. Post-Procedure Recovery: After the dental cleaning, older pets are kept under observation for a longer period to ensure they recover fully from the anesthesia. Vets will monitor for signs of discomfort, nausea, or disorientation, which can occur more frequently in older animals. You’ll receive detailed aftercare instructions to help manage your pet’s recovery at home.
5. Weighing the Risks: While there are risks associated with anesthesia, especially in older pets, the risks of untreated dental disease can be far more serious. Dental infections can spread to vital organs, such as the heart and kidneys, leading to conditions like endocarditis or renal failure. Regular dental cleanings help prevent these complications and significantly improve your pet’s quality of life.

💡 Pro Tip: Before scheduling a dental cleaning for your senior pet, discuss their specific health status with the vet and ask if a geriatric anesthesia protocol can be used. This tailored approach reduces risks and ensures the procedure is as safe as possible.

Q: How does Vetco Total Care handle aggressive or anxious pets during routine exams or procedures?

Vetco Total Care takes a compassionate and patient-centered approach when handling aggressive or anxious pets during exams or procedures. Here’s how they manage these situations effectively:

1. Behavioral Assessments: The vet team often starts by performing a behavioral assessment as soon as your pet arrives. They take note of any signs of anxiety or aggression and adjust their approach accordingly. For anxious pets, the goal is to make them feel as comfortable as possible before the examination begins. This might include giving them a few minutes to calm down or letting them get accustomed to the environment.
2. Fear-Free Techniques: Vetco Total Care is increasingly adopting fear-free techniques, which focus on reducing stress and creating a calm environment for pets. This includes using gentle handling, talking in soothing tones, and allowing the pet to approach the vet staff at their own pace. If your pet has a history of aggression, alert the staff beforehand, so they can prepare accordingly.
3. Muzzle Use and Restraints: In cases where a pet is highly aggressive or poses a risk to themselves or others, the use of muzzles or gentle restraints may be necessary. However, these are used as a last resort and only for short periods. The aim is to ensure the safety of both the pet and the veterinary staff while keeping the experience as calm as possible for your pet.
4. Sedation When Necessary: For pets that are severely anxious or aggressive, the vet may recommend using light sedation. Sedation is a safe and effective way to reduce anxiety and prevent aggressive reactions during the exam or procedure. It allows the vet to perform a thorough check-up without causing undue stress to the pet. Sedation may also be necessary for more invasive procedures, like dental cleanings or X-rays, where it’s crucial to keep the pet still.
5. Home Preparation: If your pet is prone to fearful reactions or aggression, you can help prepare them for the visit by using calming sprays like pheromone diffusers (e.g., Feliway for cats or Adaptil for dogs) or offering natural calming supplements prior to the appointment. Bringing your pet’s favorite blanket or toy can also provide comfort in an unfamiliar setting.
6. Follow-Up Care: After handling a particularly anxious or aggressive pet, the Vetco staff will provide guidance on desensitization techniques or behavioral training that can make future visits smoother. They may suggest gradual exposure to the clinic environment or even a brief stop-in just to say hello and get a treat, helping your pet form more positive associations with the vet.

💡 Pro Tip: If your pet has a history of anxiety or aggression, let the clinic know in advance. This allows the staff to allocate more time for your appointment and use extra care to keep your pet calm. Pre-visit sedation may also be an option if your pet’s anxiety is severe.

Q: Does Vetco Total Care offer any specialized services for exotic pets?

While Vetco Total Care primarily focuses on dogs and cats, some locations may offer basic services for certain small mammals or exotic pets like rabbits, guinea pigs, or ferrets. However, the availability of these services can vary widely depending on the clinic location and the expertise of the veterinary staff. Here’s what you need to know about getting care for exotic pets at Vetco:

1. Basic Wellness Care: If your exotic pet needs a basic wellness exam, some Vetco locations may be equipped to handle small mammals. This includes routine health checks, nail trims, and advice on diet and husbandry. Always call ahead to confirm that the specific Vetco clinic near you has experience with exotic animals, as not all locations have vets trained in this area.
2. Vaccinations for Ferrets: Ferrets require specific vaccinations, such as for canine distemper and rabies, both of which are crucial for their health. Some Vetco locations can administer these vaccines, but it’s important to check with your local clinic to confirm if they offer ferret vaccinations.
3. Advanced Care Referrals: If your exotic pet requires more specialized or advanced care—such as surgery, diagnostic imaging, or treatment for complex conditions—it’s likely that you’ll be referred to an exotics specialist. These veterinarians have additional training in the unique health needs of birds, reptiles, and small mammals. Vetco’s strength lies in preventive and routine care for more common pets, so they may not be fully equipped for more specialized exotic care.
4. Nutritional Guidance: Exotic pets often have unique dietary requirements that differ significantly from dogs and cats. Vetco vets can provide basic nutritional guidance for pets like rabbits, guinea pigs, or hamsters, focusing on proper balance of hay, fresh vegetables, and pellets. For more complex dietary needs (e.g., for reptiles), it’s best to consult a veterinarian who specializes in exotic species.
5. Limited Surgical Services: Most Vetco Total Care clinics do not offer surgical services for exotic pets, as these animals often require specialized equipment and anesthesia protocols that differ from those used for cats and dogs. If your exotic pet needs surgery or dental work, you’ll likely need to visit a specialty exotics vet who has the proper tools and experience for these delicate procedures.

💡 Pro Tip: If you’re considering Vetco Total Care for your exotic pet, always call ahead to discuss their specific needs and confirm the clinic’s ability to provide appropriate care. For advanced procedures or complex conditions, it’s best to seek out a board-certified exotics vet for specialized treatment.

Q: What’s the process for scheduling a spay or neuter surgery at Vetco Total Care, and how much does it cost?

Scheduling a spay or neuter surgery at Vetco Total Care is straightforward and generally more affordable than at traditional veterinary clinics. Here’s what you can expect:

1. Booking the Appointment: You can schedule a spay or neuter surgery by calling your local Vetco Total Care clinic or booking an appointment online through Petco’s website. It’s recommended to schedule the surgery well in advance, as these appointments can fill up quickly, especially during peak times like spring or summer when many people adopt new pets.
2. Pre-Surgical Exam: Before the surgery, your pet will need a pre-surgical exam to ensure they are healthy enough for the procedure. This exam typically checks for any underlying health conditions that could complicate anesthesia, such as heart murmurs or respiratory issues. Bloodwork may be recommended for older pets to check their liver and kidney function.
3. Cost of the Surgery: The cost of spay/neuter surgery at Vetco Total Care varies based on your pet’s size, age, and whether they’re male or female. Generally, neutering male pets is less expensive than spaying females due to the complexity of the procedure. On average, expect the following price ranges:
   • Neuter (Male): $150 – $300
   • Spay (Female): $200 – $500 The price may increase if your pet is older, overweight, or if they have underlying health conditions that require additional care during the procedure.
4. Post-Surgery Care: After the surgery, Vetco provides detailed post-operative care instructions, including how to manage your pet’s pain, what to expect during recovery, and signs of potential complications like swelling, bleeding, or infection. Most pets recover within 7-10 days, during which time you’ll need to keep them from licking their stitches and restrict their activity to avoid any strain on the incision site.
5. Follow-Up Appointment: A follow-up appointment may be recommended a week or two after the surgery to ensure that the incision is healing properly and that your pet is recovering without complications. If you notice any signs of discomfort or unusual behavior after the procedure, call the clinic immediately for guidance.

💡 Pro Tip: Spaying and neutering not only helps control the pet population but also reduces the risk of certain health issues like mammary tumors, pyometra, and testicular cancer. If cost is a concern, ask Vetco about any current promotions or low-cost spay/neuter programs that may be available.