Head of Medical Oncology Strategy and Portfolio Support, Global Medical Affairs Zoetis Encinitas, California, United States
Disclosure(s):
Andi Flory, DVM, DACVIM (Oncology), MBA: Zoetis: Employed by and shareholder in Zoetis (Ongoing), Speaker for and employed by Zoetis (Ongoing)
Abstract:
Background: Owner perceptions of veterinary specialty care influence referral uptake and outcomes, yet contemporary quantitative data are limited. This study summarizes national survey data on awareness, referral pathways, barriers, and owner-reported value of specialty care.
Hypothesis /
Objectives: To quantify awareness, referral rates, reasons for seeking or declining specialty care, and impacts on Primary Care Veterinarian (PCV)–owner relationships.
Animals: Survey of 1,700 adult owners of dogs, cats, horses, and large animals* in the US *Large animals include alpacas, cows, goats, llamas, pigs and sheep.
Methods: Cross‑sectional online survey (Aug 26–Sep 15, 2025) using quota sampling across species and generations. Measures included specialist awareness, PCV referral and compliance, reasons for (not) seeking specialty care (ACVIM specialties) and/or treatment (non-treaters), and perceived outcomes. Descriptive statistics summarized frequencies and proportions.
Results: Overall specialist awareness exceeded 75%, higher among owners of sick animals. Among sick‑animal owners, 58% received a PCV referral, and of those >90% pursued specialist referral; 8% did not treat. Owners sought referral to receive the best/advanced care, follow their PCV’s recommendation, and access advanced diagnostics. Treatment or referral were declined due to cost, perceived lack of benefit, and animal age/frailty. Most owners reported that specialist care increased trust and willingness to repeat decisions and improved opinion of their PCV (72%).
Conclusions: Awareness and perceived value of specialty care are high. PCV referrals strongly determine specialist uptake and owner satisfaction, and positively impact PCV relationships. Cost and perceived-benefit barriers are counterbalanced by strong advocacy following specialist consultation.
