Summary:
Vetr Health is a women and minority-owned startup bringing veterinary care to homes.
Affordable membership model at $50/month includes two in-home visits and telehealth services.
30% increase in vet care costs from 2021 to 2024 highlights the need for alternative solutions.
Each appointment lasts 45 minutes, allowing for more comprehensive care.
Plans for expansion into southeast Michigan and beyond.
Bringing Veterinary Care Home
Vetr Health, a Grand Rapids-based startup founded by a woman and minority, is transforming the veterinary landscape by offering in-home pet checkups. Founded in 2021, this innovative service aims to provide pet owners with a more affordable and comfortable alternative to traditional veterinary visits.
The Need for Change
Rachel Berkal and her fiancé, Sadoc Paredes, launched Vetr Health in response to the rising costs of veterinary care and the stress pets experience during clinic visits. Reports indicate that from 2021 to 2024, vet care costs have surged by 30%. Berkal noted that these rising prices are impacting pet owners significantly, making veterinary care a major expense in pet ownership.
How It Works
Vetr Health offers a monthly membership fee of $50, which includes:
- Two in-home veterinary visits each year
- Vaccinations and diagnostics
- In-house lab testing for quicker results
- Unlimited access to telehealth services and an online pharmacy
These services are designed to provide comprehensive care without the stress of traveling to a clinic. Each appointment lasts 45 minutes, compared to the average 15 minutes in traditional settings, allowing for more thorough care.
Partnership Over Competition
Berkal emphasizes that Vetr Health is not a competitor to traditional family-owned clinics but rather a partner. They collaborate with local veterinarians to ensure that pets receive the best possible care, even if that means referring them to a clinic for procedures that cannot be performed at home.
Future Expansion
Looking ahead, Vetr Health plans to expand its services to southeast Michigan and potentially to northern Michigan or the Traverse City area. This startup is committed to making veterinary care affordable and accessible for all pet parents.
For more information, pet owners can visit the Vetr Health website to fill out a profile and discuss their home care needs.
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