Vet Care Financial Assistance

Finding affordable veterinary care can be daunting for some pet owners. Many local veterinary practices are not accepting new clients, or are booking appointments weeks or months away. Sometimes costs are so prohibitive that owners are forced to make difficult decisions like surrendering or euthanizing a beloved pet.

Here are some suggestions for avoiding the financial drain of routine or emergency veterinary care:

• Create a crowd-funding campaign on a platform like like “Go Fund Me” or “Givebutter”and ask friends, family and community members to donate.

• Search the internet for "Owner paying for emergency veterinary care grants" and see what comes up in your area.

• Ask the veterinary practice about Care Credit, vetbilling.com, or negotiate a payment plan directly with them.

• Contact local veterinary colleges and ask if they offer low-cost treatment options for your pet’s condition.

• Use community vaccination clinics, frequently sponsored by local towns and animal shelters, as well as stores like Petco and Tractor Supply.

Also, here are some organizations that may be able to provide assistance.

• Banfield Foundation

• Community Animal Rescue Effort

• The Onyx and Breezy Foundation