Survey finds many US pet owners are skipping preventive care

Banfield Pet Hospital’s nationwide study highlights stark differences in pet care habits—from missed vet visits to round-the-clock cuddles.

South Carolina pet owners are setting the gold standard for preventive pet care, according to a new survey by Banfield Pet Hospital. The study, which polled 5,000 pet owners across the U.S. in honor of the hospital’s 70th anniversary, found that nearly half (48%) of South Carolinians never skip their pet’s flea and tick treatments, while 39% stay on top of vaccines and 21% ensure biannual vet checkups.

But not all states are keeping pace. Arizona, Oklahoma, and Missouri ranked among the lowest in preventive care, with 87% of Arizona pet owners admitting they often miss flea and tick treatments. Oklahoma and Missouri weren’t far behind, with 75% and 68%, respectively, neglecting this key aspect of pet health.

Yet, these same states shine in another area: quality time. Arizona and Oklahoma tied for No. 5 in hours spent with pets, averaging 12.2 awake hours per day together. A surprising 24% of Arizonans even reported being with their pets 24/7, while 23% of Oklahomans said they bring their pets everywhere pet-friendly.

Dental Care? Not a Priority for Some
The survey also exposed a nationwide gap in pet dental hygiene. In Minnesota, Tennessee, and Wisconsin, a staggering 89% of owners skip brushing their pets’ teeth, while 86% of Virginians do the same.

But Tennesseans stand out in other ways—13% have more wellness apps for their pets than for themselves, and 26% prioritize their pet’s fitness, claiming their furry friends are at their vet-approved ideal weight.

Homebodies & Travel Buddies
Wisconsin pet owners ranked No. 3 for happiness when staying in with their pets, with 59% having traveled out of state with them. Meanwhile, 62% said their pets demand constant companionship. Virginia mirrored this trend, with 63% of owners taking pets on out-of-state trips and 51% admitting their pets shadow them everywhere.

The Takeaway: While some states excel in preventive care, others prioritize bonding—proving that when it comes to pets, love and health don’t always go paw-in-paw.

Sources: Banfield Pet Hospital survey of 5,000 U.S. pet owners (2024).