America’s Best Veterinary Hospitals: Finding Quality Care in a Time of Shortage

Americans hold a special place in their hearts for their animal companions. Across the nation, homes echo with the playful barks of dogs, the soothing purrs of cats, and the vibrant chirps of birds. Our connection to these creatures goes beyond simple companionship; they’re family members, confidantes, and sources of unconditional love. The depth of this bond is reflected in the staggering number of pets residing in American households. The American Veterinary Medical Association (AVMA) estimates that nearly one in six homes boasts at least one pet, a testament to the prominent role animals play in our lives.

The sheer scale of pet ownership in the United States is astounding. Americans cherish approximately 90 million dogs and 74 million cats, forming the core of our furry, scaled, and feathered families. Beyond these popular companions, our homes are also sanctuaries for fish, reptiles, birds, hamsters, gerbils, rabbits, and even poultry. This diverse collection of animals contributes to the richness of our lives, bringing joy and warmth to our homes.

Given the profound connection we share with our pets, it’s only natural that we prioritize their well-being. Millions of pet owners strive to provide the best possible care for their beloved animals, investing in nutritious food, engaging toys, and essential grooming tools. Perhaps most importantly, they seek quality medical care to ensure their pets live long, healthy, and happy lives.

The financial commitment to pet healthcare is substantial. The AVMA estimates that Americans spend over $1 billion annually on veterinary care. A significant portion of this spending is dedicated to our canine and feline companions, with approximately $580 million allocated to dogs and $433 million to cats. This considerable investment highlights the value we place on our pets’ health and the lengths we’re willing to go to ensure their well-being.

However, navigating the landscape of veterinary care can be challenging. Despite our unwavering commitment to our pets’ health, access to quality veterinary services isn’t always readily available. America is currently facing a shortage of veterinarians and veterinary hospitals, creating a situation where pet owners may struggle to find adequate care for their animals.

The AVMA has even acknowledged this growing problem by publishing a working definition for "veterinary care deserts," highlighting the areas where access to veterinary services is limited or nonexistent. This shortage poses a significant challenge for pet owners, particularly those residing in underserved communities, making it difficult to provide their animals with the medical attention they need.

In light of this shortage, the importance of identifying and accessing high-quality veterinary care is more critical than ever. Finding a reputable veterinary hospital where pets can receive comprehensive treatment from licensed veterinarians is paramount. Pet owners need reliable resources to guide them in their search for competent and compassionate care.

Recognizing this need, USA TODAY partnered with Statista, a leading market research firm, to create the inaugural America’s Best Veterinary Hospitals rankings. This initiative aims to provide pet owners with a valuable tool for identifying veterinary hospitals that meet the highest standards of quality and care.

The ranking process involved a rigorous evaluation of veterinary hospitals across the country. The primary source of data came from an independent survey of over 5,000 U.S. veterinary professionals and pet owners. These individuals, who had either visited or received services from a veterinary hospital in the past three years, provided valuable insights into their experiences.

Respondents were asked to evaluate various hospitals based on their personal experiences. In total, more than 11,000 evaluations were collected between January and March of 2025, providing a comprehensive dataset for analysis. The survey focused on key aspects of veterinary care, including the quality of medical services, the professionalism of the staff, the cleanliness of the facility, and the overall patient experience.

For the purposes of the list, a veterinary hospital was defined as a facility operated by a licensed veterinarian for diagnosing and treating diseases and injuries in both large animals and pets. These hospitals offer a wide range of services, including routine check-ups, vaccinations, surgery, and emergency care. The scope of services provided was a key factor in determining a hospital’s eligibility for inclusion in the rankings.

The evaluations gathered from veterinary professionals and pet owners, along with other relevant data points, were carefully scored to create a final assessment for each hospital. This comprehensive scoring system took into account a variety of factors to ensure that the rankings accurately reflected the quality of care provided.

The culmination of this rigorous evaluation process resulted in the 2025 list of America’s Best Veterinary Hospitals, comprising 300 healthcare providers recognized for their commitment to excellence in veterinary medicine. This list serves as a valuable resource for pet owners seeking high-quality care for their beloved animals.

By providing pet owners with access to this information, USA TODAY and Statista hope to empower them to make informed decisions about their pets’ healthcare. The America’s Best Veterinary Hospitals rankings aim to promote transparency and accountability within the veterinary industry, ultimately contributing to improved outcomes for pets across the country. In a time of veterinary shortages, this list is designed to help pet owners navigate the challenges and find the best possible care for their animal companions.