Friends & Vets Helping Pets is a 501(c)3 nonprofit organization established to assist families with financial limitations to pay for extraordinary veterinary expenses necessary to save a pet’s life. Founded in 2011, Friends & Vets Helping Pets (FVHP) fills a unique gap that appeared during tough economic times. When a family pet is injured or sick and is in need of lifesaving treatment, responsible pet owners are faced with the unthinkable – finding a way to pay for the treatment or being forced to euthanize their beloved pet. We hope to solve the problem of families being forced, unnecessarily, to euthanize a family pet solely because of cost restraints. FVHP staff works with both the veterinarian and the family to provide pets with the necessary medical treatment so they can live out their lives in a loving and caring environment.
Friends & Vets Helping Pets funds treatments for curable (lifesaving, not life prolonging) diseases such as tumors, broken bones, ambulatory care, expensive medication, or post-surgical prosthetics such as a K-9 cart. These treatments are not typically covered by most animal welfare groups. FVHP does not fund diagnostics or preventative measures like x-ray, ultrasound or MRI tests.
Friends & Vets Helping Pets has a carefully designed application process that begins here with an online initial application. All applicants must be prepared to show documentation of financial need at this time. During this process, we work with the applicant to see how much they can afford to pay. Veterinarians complete a short form to become registered with FVHP in advance of a treatment. The veterinarian submits a diagnosis/treatment protocol and cost estimate of the treatment for the pet. FVHP asks that the vet donate a small portion of their time or services on each approved treatment, typically 10 – 15%, in an effort to reduce the cost of the treatment. This allows the vet to help the client/pet and still make a profit. Next, depending on availability of funding, FVHP provides the difference in the form of a grant paid directly to the veterinary clinic/hospital treating the pet. By forming a caring partnership and working together as a team, these lifesaving surgeries and treatments become more affordable and all parties have a vested interest in the outcome.
Friends & Vets Helping Pets strives to help as many families as possible with available funds. Financial aid is intended as a supplement to family resources. Grants are made to families whose ability to pay is extremely limited, but also to those of somewhat more substantial means, up to 200% of the Federal Poverty Guidelines, who may only need minor subsidy to meet the veterinary expenses. All applicants must be prepared to show financial need and responsible pet ownership.
Friends & Vets Helping Pets is a 501(c)3 nonprofit organization and receives no state or federal funding. We are completely dependent on private and corporate contributions and grants to provide lifesaving veterinary care to sick and injured pets. All FVHP organizational operation costs are underwritten by a generous Board of Directors. 100% of your contributions go to saving pets with lifesaving medical treatments.
To donate, click on the Donate Now button to make your contribution securely online or mail a check to the address below. Many companies have a matching contribution program so please ask your employer if they will match your donation or if they want to become a corporate donor. For more information on our corporate giving program, contact Beth at 859.309.2043.
Friends & Vets Helping Pets
P.O. Box 910117
Lexington, KY 40591
info@FriendsandVetsHelpingPets.org
(859) 309-2043
Fax: (859) 201-1177