You might be able to qualify for financial help for your dog's surgery.
If your four-legged friend requires surgery and money is tight, you still have some options. Some nonprofit organizations offer financial assistance for a dog's surgery if the owner or an animal rescue group cannot pay the costs. Most grants pay only a portion of the fee, not the entire amount.
United Animal Nations
United Animal Nations offers a LifeLine Individual Grant for pets needing emergency treatment. Applicants must demonstrate financial need and medical urgency. They must submit a diagnosis and treatment plan, including the dog's likely prognosis, from their veterinarian. Applicants must submit evidence of financial need, such as enrollment in a government assistance program or receiving unemployment benefits. Only U.S. residents can apply. Dogs must face a life-threatening emergency requiring immediate treatment, including surgery.
Labrador Life Line
Owners of purebred Labrador retrievers who need financial assistant for emergency treatments can apply to this breed-specific, nonprofit organization. For 2011, maximum aid for dogs with owners is $500, or up to 75 percent of treatment costs. For dogs under the care of rescue groups, maximum funding is $250 or 50 percent of the treatment costs. Funding decisions include potential quality of life. Grants cannot be used for long-term needs, terminally ill dogs or animals suffering from genetic defects.
Animal Trustees of Austin
Those living in the Austin, Texas, area can apply to the Animal Trustees of Austin's program for emergency care assistance. Eligible owners or animal welfare organizations may qualify for help with a dog's surgery through the ATA's partnership with the Animal Medical Center and the Austin Vet Care at Central Park. In partnership with veterinarian Dr. Kirk Lewis, the ATA offers the Saving Animal Lives program for surgery on pets with life-threatening injuries.
The Pet Fund
This nonprofit organization provides funding for companion animals, but not for emergencies. It might fund "medical care that is above and beyond basic care but which does not require urgent treatment," which could include certain surgeries. Grants are made to the veterinarian treating the dog, not directly to the dog's owner. Applicants must submit proof of income, including current unemployment or disability benefits, along with the cost estimate for the proposed treatment from the veterinarian.
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