How to Compare Vet Prices: FareVet’s Guide to Asking the Right Questions

Vet bills can vary widely. Learn how to ask the right questions before booking care. Use FareVet to compare real prices and avoid surprise costs.

Vet visits aren’t just about care they’re about clarity. For pet parents trying to stay ahead of rising costs, knowing how to ask the right questions is just as important as finding the right clinic. Whether you're searching for a new veterinarian, comparing quotes for surgery, or budgeting for the year ahead, being informed can save you hundreds and a lot of stress.

At FareVet, we’re building tools to bring transparency to veterinary pricing. But even with the best data, it’s the questions you ask in the clinic that often make the biggest difference.

Here’s your FareVet-approved guide to asking the right questions when comparing veterinary services.

Booking a General Exam? Start Here

Not all physical exams are created equal. Pricing varies widely between clinics, and so does what you get for that fee.

Before booking, ask:

• What’s the total cost of an exam?

• Does the fee cover a full physical, or just a basic check-in?

• If my pet has multiple concerns, will they all be addressed in one visit or will that require separate appointments?

• Are standard checks like ear, eye, and weight assessments included?

• Are there any new patient discounts or bundled exam packages?

  
  

These questions help ensure you’re comparing not just prices, but value.

Wellness Visits and Vaccinations: Understand the Full Package

Annual check-ups often include vaccinations, but how clinics bundle these services can differ significantly.

When comparing wellness pricing, ask:

• Will my pet receive a full physical exam during this visit?

• Which vaccinations are included in the quoted cost?

• Are vaccines tailored based on my pet’s lifestyle, age, or breed?

• Are there additional vaccines recommended, and what do they cost?

• Are other services like nail trims or parasite screening included in the visit?

  
  

It’s common for clinics to list a flat rate for wellness care that may not reflect all necessary or recommended services. Asking in advance helps avoid unexpected add-ons.

Planning a Surgery? Know What’s Included

Surgical procedures are often the most expensive part of veterinary care. But two quotes for the same surgery might look similar on the surface while hiding major cost differences in what’s included.

To get an accurate comparison, ask:

• Are IV fluids included in the surgical cost?

• Will my pet receive pain medication before and after the procedure? Is it included?

• Is pre-operative bloodwork required? If so, is it part of the quote or billed separately?

• Will a licensed veterinary technician monitor my pet under anesthesia?

• Are follow-up visits or suture removals included in the price?

• What’s the expected length of stay, and are there added fees for early drop-off or overnight care?

• Will a cone or recovery collar be needed after surgery? If yes, is that provided or an additional charge?

  
  

Asking these questions ensures you're not surprised by hidden fees or missing services.

Why These Questions Matter

These questions aren’t just about budgeting they’re about advocating for your pet and protecting your peace of mind.

Most pet parents want to do the right thing, but few are given the tools to evaluate their options clearly. That leads to rushed decisions, unexpected bills, or worse avoiding care altogether out of fear.

At FareVet, we believe in changing that. Our platform is designed to give pet parents access to real prices, submitted by real users, across thousands of clinics. But beyond price, we want to help you build confidence in the care process.

Asking the right questions helps you make informed, thoughtful decisions especially when emotions are running high.

Don't Wait Until You're in Crisis

The best time to compare vet care isn’t in the middle of an emergency it’s before you need it.

By starting these conversations early, you can:

• Build a trusting relationship with your vet

• Budget more effectively for future care

• Make calm, confident decisions under pressure

  
  

Because the best kind of care isn’t just affordable it’s clear, respectful, and proactive.

FareVet helps you compare vet prices with confidence.But your questions are what make those comparisons meaningful.