We know how much you love your pet, and we also know that veterinary care, especially in an emergency, can be expensive. You’re not alone. There are organizations that may be able to help with the cost of care for your companion animal.
The groups listed here are completely independent from Nevada Humane Society, and each has its own rules, guidelines, and application process. We can’t endorse, recommend, or guarantee funding from any of them, but we hope this list helps you explore your options.
A quick note: Most grants can only cover a portion of the total cost, so it’s worth checking with several sources.
What You’ll Usually Need To Apply
While each program is different, most require:
- A diagnosis from your veterinarian
- Proof that you’ve been denied Care Credit or have been approved for only a limited amount
- Proof your pet is already spayed or neutered, or confirmation it will be done during treatment (If you are in need of low-cost spay/neuter service, please click here to be redirected to our Low Cost Spay/Neuter Clinic page)
First Step: Apply For Care Credit Or Similar Financing
Many programs require that you’ve first applied for credit with a veterinary financing provider.
- Care Credit: www.carecredit.com
- Citi Health Card: www.citicards.com
If you’re denied or approved for only a limited amount, you can use that documentation when applying for grants.
Grants & Emergency Assistance
Here are some resources that may be able to help:
- Shakespeare Animal Fund
Small grants ($50–$100) for people on a fixed income or with annual incomes below federal poverty guidelines. - Red Rover
Grants around $200 for urgent care. - Pets of the Homeless
Pet food & emergency vet care for pets whose owners are experiencing homelessness. - Brown Dog Foundation
For sick or injured pets who would respond well to treatment but whose families have no funds available. - Paws 4 A Cure
Helps with urgent vet care for illness or injury. - Pet Assistance Inc.
Financial help for long-time pet owners facing urgent or life-threatening emergencies. - Assistance Dog Partners
Emergency vet care for service dogs (must be initiated by your vet). - Todd’s Medical Fund
Helps qualifying families afford necessary veterinary care. - AlignCare
Connects pet families in need with vets, community groups, & social services. - The Pet Fund
For non-urgent care like cancer or heart disease treatment. - Onyx and Breezy Fund
Medical treatment, medication, pet food, and spay/neuter with proof of financial need. - The Big Hearts Fund
Support for pets with heart disease. - Joshua Louis Animal Cancer Foundation
Helps families afford cancer treatment for pets. - STARelief
Emergency pet food, veterinary care, boarding, and foster for families in crisis. - The Mosby Fund
For limited-income pet parents facing unexpected challenges.
Additional Assistance Resources
- Humane World for Animals
While they don’t provide direct funding, they have a resource page with more suggestions.
Tips For Talking With Your Vet
- Ask About Excess Funds: Some clinics have donation programs to help cover costs.
- Payment Plans: Longtime clients may qualify for installments.
- Post-Dated Checks: Some vets accept them.
- Discounts: Ask about senior or veteran discounts.
- Get Multiple Opinions: Prices & approaches can vary.
- Discuss Minimum Treatments: Sometimes a simpler procedure (like amputation instead of reconstructive surgery) can be a more affordable, life-saving option.