In a surprising turn of events, veterinary clinics in Japan have experienced a noticeable increase in bankruptcies, marking a record high for the second year in a row. Factors contributing to this include increasing competition, high operational costs, and the country's demographic trend of decreasing pet ownership. The rise in bankruptcies is causing concerns about access to animal healthcare in the country.

The rising rate of bankruptcies among veterinary clinics is a major concern in Japan where pet ownership is deeply valued. With Japan’s ageing and declining population, pets have become an indispensable part of many households, providing companionship and emotional support. Legally, animals are considered as important members of society. However, the ongoing trend of veterinary clinic closures may impact the availability of pet care, arousing social and economic discussions.

In contrast, the US and EU have seen growth in the veterinary services sector due to increased pet ownership in COVID-19 pandemic times and high spending on pet care. Veterinary services are seen as a profitable business, and while bankruptcy is not unheard of, it is not as prevalent as in Japan.