Need Help Paying Vet Bills?

Work with your veterinarian. Ask your primary vet whether any less expensive treatment option is available. Think about getting a second opinion to compare medical cost. Try to arrange a payment plan. Ask whether the practice would accept services in place of cash. Perhaps an extra hand at the reception desk or in the kennel is needed at times.

Consider going to a vet in a less expensive area or locate a veterinary school with a clinic for low-income clients. The American Veterinary Medical Association has a list of schools by state here.

Explore animal welfare organizations that offer help to pets needing medical care. These funding programs typically have specific application procedures, eligibility requirements and may be limited to certain breeds, species, diseases, etc.

Helpful links to various types of financial resources follow:

National Resources

DOGS – BREED-SPECIFIC ASSISTANCE:

DISEASE-SPECIFIC RESOURCES:

SERVICE DOGS:

CATS:

  • Cats in Crisis http://www.catsincrisis.org
    Offers grants for cats with kidney disease, thyroid disease or cardiac conditions, or neurological conditions or mobility impairments such as Cerebellar hypoplasia, paraplegia, and limb malformations.
  • Feline Veterinary Emergency Assistance Program http://www.fveap.org 
    Medical costs for life-threatening illness or injury. Limited to recipients of State Medicaid, Medicare, or Social Security only income; a public assistance program; or unemployment benefits.
  • SPAY/USA http://www.spayusa.org/about/about.asp
    Affordable spay/neuter services.

PAYMENT PLANS AND FUNDRAISING:

Local Resources

 (DC Metro Area)

DISTRICT OF COLUMBIA:

MARYLAND

VIRGINIA: