Americans are known for their love of pets, with over 60% owning at least one furry friend, as reported by the American Veterinary Medical Association.
The numbers are staggering, with almost 90 million dogs and 74 million cats being cherished as family members, alongside other beloved pets like fish, reptiles, birds, and more.
Pet owners prioritize the well-being of their animals, investing in food, toys, grooming, and medical care. The AVMA notes that U.S. households with dogs spend $580 annually on veterinary care, while cat owners spend $433, and other pet owners spend $531.
However, with a shortage of veterinarians and veterinary hospitals in some areas, finding quality care can be challenging. The AVMA has even identified "veterinary care deserts" in certain regions.
In light of this, it is more important than ever to locate reputable veterinary hospitals where pets can receive top-notch treatment from licensed professionals.
To aid pet owners in this search, USA TODAY has collaborated with research firm Statista to compile the inaugural America's Best Veterinary Hospitals rankings.
The criteria for inclusion in the rankings involved an independent survey of over 5,000 U.S. veterinary professionals and pet owners who had interacted with veterinary hospitals in the past three years.
A total of more than 11,000 evaluations were collected between January and March 2025 to determine the top facilities. Veterinary hospitals were defined as facilities operated by licensed professionals for diagnosing and treating diseases and injuries in animals, offering services like surgery and emergency care.
After careful assessment, the list of America's Best Veterinary Hospitals for 2025 was curated, featuring 300 outstanding healthcare providers.