PETERBOROUGH HUMANE SOCIETY RECEIVES $100,000 GRANT

PETERBOROUGH HUMANE SOCIETY RECEIVES $100,000 GRANT FROM PETSMART CHARITIES® TO IMPROVE ACCESSIBLE VETERINARY CARE

In recent years, the cost of living has risen sharply, causing many pet owners to struggle financially when it comes to paying for their pet’s veterinary bills.  The most common answer provided when an animal is surrendered to Peterborough Humane Society is “financial strain”.  A recent survey also suggested that over 70% of pet owners who took their pets to the vet felt the cost was too high.  As a consequence, more pet parents are choosing to skip routine check-ups because they feel that they cannot afford the cost of veterinary care. 

PetSmart Charities has committed $100 million over the next five years toward improving access to veterinary care. The “Accelerator” low-cost veterinary care grant program is a key part of this effort.  These grants support the expansion of low-cost veterinary care by funding growth and operations for up to four years for nonprofit clinics looking to expand their services, serve their communities better and inspire other veterinary providers by sharing their experiences.

The grant made to Peterborough Humane Society in the amount of $100,000 will support the expansion of basic animal wellness services offered from the Peterborough Regional Spay/Neuter Clinic. The anticipated impact on local pets and families includes helping reduce the number of animals surrendered to shelters due to the financial strain of basic veterinary services, servicing community members who do not have a relationship with a veterinarian due to financial reasons.

“This grant from PetSmart Charities will enable Peterborough Humane Society to begin providing even more support to people and pets in Peterborough and the entire Kawartha Region,” says PHS Executive Director Shawn Morey. “As an important part of our 3-year Strategic Plan, helping improve access to care is a real priority and focus for us. This is an important next step in that strategy.”

Overwhelmingly, people consider their pets important members of the family. Pets make a significant impact in the health and wellness of the people they love. This grant will enable more families to get the preventative and standard care that ensures their pets thrive at home and stay out of shelters.

“Our veterinary system is in crisis,” said Kate Atema, director of community grants and initiatives at PetSmart Charities.  “Rising costs are putting standard veterinary care out of reach for as much as 50% of pet-owning families. We need innovative solutions that make veterinary care affordable for the families in every community who want the best for their four-legged companions but struggle to meet the cost of vet care. We’re inspired by the incredible work Peterborough Humane Society is doing to create solutions that will build strong families and a healthy community.”