Credit Companies & Foundations Lend a Helping Paw

As the economy tanks and pet owners lose their jobs and homes, its becoming more and more difficult to handle day-to-day pet expenses let alone plan for emergencies. Lately, I've received an influx of requests for information about medical financial aid for pets. Some are from pet owners. Some are from rescuers. All need to care for their dogs and need financial support.

I started doing a little research and found that there are a few commercial companies and foundations that help pet owners pay for medical expenses. I'm listing them below. I have never used any of these services and cannot vouch for them, but its a good start for anyone needing help.

• CareCredit - This is a commercial lending company that helps pet owners (who qualify) with financing for medical expenses. I ran a search for the emergency vet in my area and they were listed, so I would assume that most vets are accepted
• IMOM.org - This federally recognized foundation was created in memory of the founder's dog, Magic. They will consider supporting 1) life-threatening emergencies or 2) the fundraising efforts of pet owners through their online community.
• Labrador Life Line - This 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization helps provide financial assistance for Labrador Retrievers in need.
• The Pet Fund - This 501(c)(3) nonprofit provides financial assistance to owners of domestic animals who need veterinary care. They do not fund emergency medical needs.
• United Animal Nations - This 501(c)(3) nonprofit provides financial assistance for pet owners, rescue organizations and rescuers with animals suffering from life-threatening emergencies. They offer several grants which are explained on their website.
• Angels for Animals - This 501(c)(3) nontprofit's mission is to "assist pet owners in making animal care decisions based upon the needs of the animal rather than financial limitations. Helping pet owners in this way will go a long way to reduce unnecessary euthanasia."
• The Mosby Foundation - This 501(c)(3) foundation helps pet owners whose pets are suffering from a life-threatening emergency.

Understand that most of these foundations and nonprofits work solely with your vet and have very specific guidelines for providing funds. Most are also managed by a volunteer staff who are very overwhelmed. They want to help, but can only do so much, so please treat them with courtesy and respect.

A word about pet insurance. I paid for pet insurance for many years for 4 dogs and when it came time to use it for a medical emergency it only paid 16% of the cost (total reimbursement - $250). I later calculated that I had paid approximately $2500 for the insurance over the years. So, I cancelled it. Some folks have found pet insurance to be a valuable resource. I did not. If you opt to purchase insurance for your pet, fully review the benefits and ask questions. Ensure that you are getting the most bang for your buck.