Mr. Pepper | April 13th, 2026
April 22, 2026
Stop Losing Revenue to Swipe Fees: Why VHA Members are Switching to Pawsitive Payments
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Sarah Sieben
- Finance
Sarah Sieben
In the veterinary world, we often focus on the rising costs of drugs, medical supplies, and labor. But there is a “silent” expense eating away at your bottom line every single day: credit card processing fees.
A recent AAHA Trends article highlighted a shifting tide in the industry. As margins tighten, more practices are moving away from the “cost of doing business” mindset regarding merchant fees and toward a more strategic approach.
For members of VHA, this shift isn’t just a theory, it’s a massive opportunity thanks to our partnership with Pawsitive Payments.
Most practices pay between 2.5% and 4% in processing fees. On a $1,000 surgery, that’s $40 gone instantly. Over a year, a practice processing $2 million could be “donating” $60,000 or more to credit card companies.
The AAHA article notes that while many owners fear client pushback, the reality is that transparent surcharging or cash discounting is becoming the standard across all industries, from your local coffee shop to your mechanic.
Through VHA’s partnership with Pawsitive Payments, members can implement a Cash Discounting model that effectively eliminates up to 100% of these merchant fees.
Unlike traditional surcharging, which can be legally complex and vary by state, the Cash Discount program is a compliant, “white-glove” solution designed specifically for veterinary workflows. Here’s why it’s a game-changer for VHA members:
Instant Bottom-Line Impact
By transferring the cost of processing to the credit card user, your clinic keeps 100% of every transaction. This creates immediate unrestricted capital that can be reinvested into:
The Exclusive VHA Rebate (Double the Savings!)
While the fee savings are enough to make the switch, VHA has added an exclusive financial incentive. VHA members receive a $100 rebate for every $100,000 in sales processed through their Pawsitive Payments terminal.
A Better Client Experience
Pawsitive Payments isn’t just about fees; it’s about modernizing the checkout. Their TXT2PAY technology allows pet parents to pay from their own devices. This is especially valuable during “curbside” pickups or emotional appointments where a client might prefer to process their payment privately rather than standing at a busy front desk.
Supporting the Profession
One of the reasons VHA chose Pawsitive Payments is their heart for the industry. A portion of every transaction processed is donated to Not One More Vet (NOMV) and other veterinary non-profits. You aren’t just saving money; you’re supporting the mental health and well-being of your colleagues.
We know that changing your merchant processor feels like a headache. That’s why Pawsitive Payments has made the transition seamless for VHA members:
The AAHA article makes it clear: managing credit card fees is no longer optional for a healthy practice, it’s a strategic necessity.
Don’t leave your hard-earned money on the table. Contact Pawsitive Payments today for a free, no-obligation analysis of your current processing.
👉 Email [email protected] or visit veterinaryha.org/partner/pawsitive-payments to get started!