- Grants for vet billssleeping cat image by Tomo Jesenicnik from Fotolia.com
Veterinary care is expensive. The American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (ASPCA) states that the average yearly cost of veterinary care ranges from $210 for a large dog to $160 for a cat. These figures do not take into account emergencies and catastrophic health problems. Thankfully, there are a number of organizations offering financial assistance in the form of grants to pet owners struggling with veterinary bills. - The American Animal Hospital Association sponsors the Helping Pets Fund. Founded in 2005, the AAHA Helping Pets Fund offers up to $500 per procedure per family with up to $1000 in assistance available over the course of a lifetime. Grants from this fund help pet owners afford non-elective or emergency procedures. There is no restriction regarding pet species. Pet owners are eligible to receive the grant if they are suffering from a financial hardship, ongoing or temporary. Proof in the form of government assistance (the receipt of Supplemental Security income, Medicaid, temporary assistance for needy families, or participation in food stamps and unemployment programs) or a letter documenting the hardship is required. Certain cases may also qualify under the fund's Good Samaritan program; applications for this program must be accompanied by a letter from a licensed veterinarian.
The American Animal Hospital Association Helping Pets Fund
12575 W Bayaud Ave
Lakewood, CO 80228
866-443-5738
aahahelpingpets.org - The Mosby Foundation was created in 2004 in memory of a husky-malamute mix named Mosby who was shot and killed. Recognizing the need for financial assistance in life-saving emergencies, Mosby's owner created the Mosby Foundation. Priority is given to dogs who are in a life-threatening situation, confirmed by phone or fax by a licensed veterinarian. Award amounts are variable and are available up to 60 days from the date of confirmation.
The Mosby Foundation
P.O. Box 218
Deerfield, VA 24432
themosbyfoundation.org - Cats in Crisis was founded in 2004 in memory of Mesa, a cat who died from kidney failure. According to its website, Cats in Crisis believes "no cat should be euthanized simply because their caretakers have limited financial means." Relying on donations from the public, Cats in Crisis provides financial assistance to owners of cats undergoing treatment for kidney disease, thyroid disease, cardiac diseases, neurological conditions or mobility impairments. Additional funds are available for adopted cats with chronic medical conditions and cats undergoing life-threatening emergencies. Grant funds are disbursed directly to the clinic, hospital, pharmacy or welfare organization responsible for the medical care of the cat.
Cats in Crisis Inc.
P.O. Box 225
Lititz, PA 17543
catsincrisis.org
