Financial Help for Pet Owners | 2025 USA Resource Guide

Millions of pet owners across the U.S. are struggling to keep up with veterinary costs, pet food prices, and other essential elements of pet care such as housing. While dogs and cats are beloved companions, their care can place a heavy financial burden on many families, seniors, veterans, and individuals in crisis.

This guide brings together verified, accessible, and free or low-cost pet care resources for dog and cat owners in the United States. We have put together the key information on these resources so that you can quickly discern whether or not they will apply to your situation.

We Have Included:

Financial assistance for emergency & non-emergency vet bills
Resources with free or low-cost pet food
A short guide on what you can do personally to help manage pet costs

Most of the links below direct you right to the application information page, so you don't have to search for the information that applies to you.

Note that Lolahemp is not affiliated with any of these websites, funds, or organizations. We can't speak on behalf of these groups or put you in touch with them. The information below summarizes the information on these websites as of March of 2025, although some information could change from the time of posting.

National Financial Assistance Programs for Pet Owners
- Options for Non-Emergency Pet Care Assistance
- Options for Emergency Pet Care Assistance
Resources for Free Pet Food
- Free Pet Food & Food Pantries
A Few Things You Can Do to Make Pet Care Costs More Manageable
Conclusion

Millions of pet owners across the U.S. are struggling to keep up with veterinary costs, pet food prices, and other essential elements of pet care such as housing. While dogs and cats are beloved companions, their care can place a heavy financial burden on many families, seniors, veterans, and individuals in crisis.
This guide brings together verified, accessible, and free or low-cost pet care resources for dog and cat owners in the United States. We have put together the key information on these resources so that you can quickly discern whether or not they will apply to your situation.
We Have Included: 
<ul>
<li>Financial assistance for emergency & non-emergency vet bills</li>
<li>Resources with free or low-cost pet food</li>
<li>A short guide on what you can do personally to help manage pet costs</li>
</ul>
Most of the links below direct you right to the application information page, so you don't have to search for the information that applies to you.
Note that Lolahemp is not affiliated with any of these websites, funds, or organizations. We can't speak on behalf of these groups or put you in touch with them. The information below summarizes the information on these websites as of March of 2025, although some information could change from the time of posting. 
<h2>National Financial Assistance Programs for Pet Owners</h2>
These programs are available across the U.S. and help pet owners with emergency vet care, food access, or housing support. Some are nonprofits; others are foundations or vet-run aid networks.
Important: many of the groups listed below have waiting lists, but don't let that discourage you. Most of them require you to email or contact someone from the organization with some key information about your pet. 
Apply for these, or at the very least get in contact with some of the references on the websites. These are people who care about animals and have invested time and energy into helping them, so there's a good chance that they will offer more resources, even if they're not able to provide funding. 
If you're applying to multiple groups, make sure to have your vet cost estimates and personal financial information (such as tax returns) available to display your financial need. Not all organizations require this information, but many do. Having this information handy can speed things up significantly, which is important if your pet is in need of help.
<h3>Options for Non-Emergency Pet Care Assistance</h3>
<ul>
<li>
<a title="the pet fund offers non-emergency treatment funds for pets in need." href="https://www.thepetfund.com/">THE PET FUND</a> 
<ul>
<li>Non-basic, non-urgent vet care: The Pet Fund provides financial assistance for adopted pets in the U.S. who need treatment for non-urgent and non-basic issues like cancer treatment or chronic conditions.</li>
<li>View the site linked above to apply, and note that you must email The Pet Fund with a description of your animal's medical needs.</li>
<li> <meta charset="utf-8">
The Pet Fund does not fund emergencies, they are dedicated to helping pets that need care that goes "above and beyond basic care" which does not require immediate treatment. </li>
</ul>
</li>
</ul>
 
<ul>
<li>
<a href="http://fdmb-cin.blogspot.com/p/compassionate-assistance-program.html">DIABETIC CATS IN NEED</a> 
<ul>
<li>
Apply for one-time assistance for costs associated with diabetes care for cats. </li>
<li>Note that you must email DCIN's director with key information about your cat's condition and care.</li>
<li>This is a "need" program, so you must express what makes you a low income caregiver. 
</li>
</ul>
</li>
<li>
<a href="https://form.jotform.com/90864067320153" title="This is the form to apply for assistance from this foundation.">JOSHUA LOUIS ANIMAL CANCER FOUNDATION</a> 
<ul>
<li>Since its inception, the JLACF has helped with over $150,000 for families in need of cancer support for their pets.</li>
<li>You can donate or apply for assistance on their website.</li>
<li>The animal must have a "good prognosis" 
</li>
</ul>
</li>
<li>
<a href="https://www.browndogfoundation.org/ask-for-help#APPLYFORASSISTANCE" title="This is the application page for the brown dog foundation which also offers more information.">THE BROWN DOG FOUNDATION</a> 
<ul>
<li>The Brown Dog Foundations helps with gaps in a families ability to pay for future medical costs associated with a dog's condition. </li>
<li>They do not help with past medical costs, and they may not cover the whole cost of any future treatment. </li>
<li>Instead, they work on a case-by-case basis to assist families who need some money to cover the "gap" in their ability to pay. 
</li>
</ul>
</li>
<li>
<a title="This page directs readers to the onyx and breezy foundation's application page." href="https://www.onyxandbreezy.org/grant-application.html">THE ONYX & BREEZY FOUNDATION</a> 
<ul>
<li>Onyx & Breezy grants cover current medical treatment or care costs when financial hardship is present.
</li>
<li>This group does not cover past medical debt.</li>
<li>Individuals and animal-focused non profits can apply, and you must submit financial information to display your financial need. 
</li>
</ul>
</li>
<li>
<a title="This page lists the application information for frankie's friends grants." href="https://www.frankiesfriends.org/apply-for-assistance-3">FRANKIE'S FRIENDS</a> 
<ul>
<li>This fund offers financial assistance for lifesaving emergency or special veterinary care for families who can't afford the full treatment.</li>
<li>Your pet must have seen by a qualified veterinarian and payment must not have been made, because the fund doesn't pay for past debts.</li>
<li>There are multiple funds listed on the application page, each one targeted to different types of ailments your pet could be facing. 
</li>
</ul>
</li>
<li>
<a href="https://www.paws4acure.org/askforhelp.php" title="This is the application information for Paws 4 a Cure">PAWS 4 A CURE</a> 
<ul>
<li>This group offers one-time grants up to $400 for non-routine veterinary care like injuries, illness, and medical equipment for dogs and cats.</li>
<li>Does not cover past treatment costs.</li>
<li>Applicants must be individuals or families, and must provide proof of financial hardship along with required documentation from your veterinarian. 
</li>
</ul>
</li>
<li>
<a href="https://www.pethelpfinder.org/m/phf" title="This page lists resources that consolidate affordable pet care, food options, and boarding services.">PET HELP FINDER</a> 
<ul>
<li>Pet Help Finder offers an easy way to find more affordable veterinary care, food pantry resources, and boarding services.</li>
<li>They strive to only feature "financially friendly" groups and services.</li>
<li>While this is not necessarily financial assistance, it can help while you get your options in line. 
</li>
</ul>
</li>
<li>
<a title="This is the link to the veterinary care charitable fund application." href="https://vccfund.avmf.org/">VETERINARY CARE CHARITABLE FUND</a> 
<ul>
<li>This fund allows veterinarians to apply on behalf of their patients who are in need of care.</li>
<li>
Talk to your veterinarian about applying on your behalf, and make sure that you fall into one of the applicable categories for eligibility.</li>
<li>Categories that apply are disabled veterans requiring a service dog, low-income senior citizens, good Samaritans who rescue domesticated animals, victims of domestic violence, and those facing financial hardship.</li>
</ul>
</li>
</ul>
<h3>Options for Emergency Pet Care Assistance 
</h3>
<ul>
<li>
<a href="https://www.shakespeareanimalfund.org/ineedhelp" title="This is the shakespeare fund's application link">THE SHAKESPEARE ANIMAL FUND</a> 
<ul>
<li>This fund provides emergency veterinary assistance to low-income, elderly, disabled, or veteran pet owners.
</li>
<li>Only applies to people in Northern Nevada and Alachua County, Florida.</li>
<li>Only for urgent medical situations, and funds go directly to the veterinarian. Pet owners are never asked to repay. 
</li>
</ul>
</li>
</ul>
<ul>
<li>
<a href="https://themosbyfoundation.org/apply-for-aid/pre-qualification-app/" title="This link directs readers to the application information for the Mosby foundation.">THE MOSBY FOUNDATION</a> 
<ul>
<li>The Mosby Foundation assists in aid for non-medical emergency medical treatment for dogs, but doesn't cover diagnostics, routine care, or past vet bills.</li>
<li>
They help with unexpected medical costs that are expected suddenly, but do not help with same day emergencies. </li>
<li>If your dog is in an active emergency, it's best to look at other financial assistance options.</li>
</ul>
</li>
</ul>
 
<ul>
<li>
<a title="This link goes to Waggle's relief application guidelines page." href="https://www.waggle.org/pet-caregivers">WAGGLE</a> 
<ul>
<li>Waggle is a non-profit that helps pet owners afford emergency veterinary care by creating crowdfunding campaigns.
</li>
<li>Licensed vets must confirm the cost of care, and all donations go directly to the vet.</li>
<li>Cannot raise funds for treatments already completed, but only future costs. </li>
<li>Waggle can also boost visibility for urgent cases due to its network of sponsors. 
</li>
</ul>
</li>
<li>
<a title="This link goes to Star Relief's funding application." href="https://starelief.org/aid-a-pet-grant-application/">STAR RELIEF</a> 
<ul>
<li>Star Relief offers grants of $100-$500 for emergency medical care for pets, paid directly to the service provider.</li>
<li>Applicants must show financial hardship, have a diagnosis and cost estimate from the vet.</li>
<li>This program does not cover services already performed. 
</li>
</ul>
</li>
<li>
<a title="This page goes to the molly's hope application page." href="https://www.mollyshope.org/application">MOLLY'S HOPE</a> 
<ul>
<li>Molly's Hope offers grants typically between $300-$400 to help pet owners with the sudden costs of medical emergencies in their pets. </li>
<li>You must submit a completed application and provide all of the information to be considered.  
</li>
</ul>
</li>
<li>
<a title="This page lists the application information for a lexi's legacy grant." href="https://www.lexis-legacy.org/grant-application">LEXI'S LEGACY</a> 
<ul>
<li>Lexi's Legacy provides grants to cover necessary medical treatments for serious conditions and emergency services. </li>
<li>Fill out the full application form and make sure to contact the organization if you have any questions. 
</li>
</ul>
</li>
<li>
<a title="This link directs to pet assistance inc's application page." href="https://petassistanceinc.org/">PET ASSISTANCE INC</a> 
<ul>
<li>
This group partially assists with vet costs, offering between $100 - $350 in many cases.</li>
<li>They cannot help after the procedure has been done, but only comes when the care has yet to be completed. </li>
<li>
CONTACTING THIS GROUP IS A WISE CHOICE, as their advice can often save you thousands of dollars - especially if you're being preyed upon by corporate services or dishonest practitioners. 
</li>
</ul>
</li>
<li>
<a title="This link directs readers to Bow Wow Buddies grant application page." href="https://www.bowwowbuddies.com/apply-for-grant/">BOW WOW BUDDIES</a> 
<ul>
<li>This foundation provides grants up to $2,500 for serious medical treatments or emergency procedures for dogs, but not for other care.</li>
<li>Grants are available for families in need or rescue groups requiring urgent care.</li>
<li>Funding isn't available for immediate emergencies, but applicants can still apply within 30 days after a procedure has taken place.</li>
<li>Only time-sensitive applications will be considered.</li>
</ul>
</li>
</ul>
<h2>Resources for Free Pet Food</h2>
Many people would sooner give up their own dinner than let their pet go hungry. In fact, if you're reading this, we'd be willing to bet that you're one of those people. 
Still, we all need to eat, and we should be able to do so without going broke in the process. Pet food, especially healthy pet food, can be expensive. There is no shame in worrying about pet food costs.
Fortunately for all of us, there are organizations around the country that make it a point to help out those who are struggling to pay for their pets' food. Let's look at some of the organizations that can help you and your pet manage to fill up without breaking the bank.
<h3>Free Pet Food & Food Pantries
</h3>
 
<ul>
<li>
<a title="This link directs users to the pet help finder food pantry finder" href="https://www.pethelpfinder.org/">PET HELP FINDER</a> 
<ul>
<li>Pet Help Finder (also listed in a section above) can help you locate pet food pantries in your area. </li>
<li>Click the link, select "i'm looking for", and select "Food Pantry and Supplies".</li>
<li>Then, add your location and see if there are options in your area. 
</li>
</ul>
</li>
<li>
<a title="This page helps people get in touch with resources for the pets." href="https://petsofthehomeless.org/get-help/find-locations">PETS OF THE HOMELESS</a> 
<ul>
<li>This page allows you to locate pet food dontaions as well as shelters and resources in your area.</li>
<li>Enter your city, then select the "choose the help you need" by clicking one or all of the resources you need. </li>
<li>The page won't change, but the interactive map below the buttons will. </li>
<li>Based on what you select, you will see the closest resources available to you on the screen. 
</li>
</ul>
</li>
<li>
<a title="This link directs users to Food Finder's interactive map." href="https://foodfinder.us/">FOOD FINDER</a> 
<ul>
<li>Food finder has an interactive map of nearly all food pantries in the United States.</li>
<li>Enter your zip code, and you'll see the pantries near you. </li>
<li>While these are human food pantries, many will have pet food.</li>
<li>Call the pantry in advance to see if they have any food for your pet. 
</li>
</ul>
</li>
<li>
<a title="This page lists meals on wheels' pet service page." href="https://www.mowp.org/pet-program/">MEALS ON WHEELS PET SERVICE</a> 
<ul>
<li>Meals on Wheels offers food services for senior adults who may not be able to cook for, or feed themselves.</li>
<li>They also offer services for pets.</li>
<li>Apply for meals on wheels or contact them to learn more about whether or not you qualify to be a part of their pet services program. 
</li>
</ul>
</li>
<li>
<a title="This page allows people to find their local food banks." href="https://www.feedingamerica.org/find-your-local-foodbank">FEEDING AMERICA FOOD BANK FINDER</a> 
<ul>
<li>This page allows you to type your zip code and find the nearest food bank.</li>
<li>Food banks for humans often have donations of pet food that they can spare for your pet. </li>
<li>Call in advance to make sure there are supplies for your pet.</li>
</ul>
</li>
</ul>
<h2>A Few Things You Can Do to Make Pet Care Costs More Manageable</h2>
The world is full of unexpected pet health costs, and when you're faced with issues, they can be very expensive. Even with the help of the resources above, it's smart to make a few decisions in advance that could help your wallet in the face of your pet's veterinary or general living costs. 
Let's look at a few things that can substantially change the amount that it costs you to own a pet.
<h3>1. Prioritize Preventative Care, at The Vet's Office & At Home</h3>
While many pet health costs are sudden and unexpected, most are to be expected (at some point in a pet's life). General health decline is common in pets, but we can significantly prolong or eliminate the chances of many health issues from occurring with preventative care.
Always get routine exams, and always follow the preventative care guidelines set forth by your vet. These may cost a little bit of money in the short term, but the costs of preventative care are dwarfed by the massive costs of surgeries and other issues that preventative care aims to, well, prevent.
At home, you can make your pet's life more comfortable and this can ward off deeper issues. Things like non-slip carpets, stairs for your dog, hip & joint supplements, and more can all contribute to fewer health issues down the line. 
The same is true for feeding your pet an appropriate amount of food (i.e. not too much) and treats to ward off obesity, all while getting enough exercise with them to keep their bodies well. 
<h3>2. Ask Your Vet About Payment Plans or Sliding Scale Fees</h3>
Many vet offices offer different options for pet owners who can't afford treatment up front. You may need to consider a payment plan (many are interest free or very low interest) or a sliding scale payment. 
Sliding scale payments can reduce your expenses based on your current income. Remember, there is no shame in requiring a little help for your pet. There are hundreds of thousands of people out there who aren't able to afford everything. Plus, the vast majority of American pet owners can't afford the $1,000+ expected for emergency medical care. 
People need help, and that's why there are options. Use them if you have them!
<h3>3. Get Pet Insurance, Explore Your Options</h3>
Pet insurance varies in cost depending on the breed, species, age, and pre-existing health issues of your pet. You'll get the most bang for your buck if you get it as soon as possible because it protects you in the event that your pet has an unexpected injury or illness.
Be sure to look into the health issues common to your pet's breed and age, and also assess your home environment and lifestyle for the risks they posses to your animal. Search for pet insurance based on those factors.
<h3>4. Don't Choose The First Vet You Find</h3>
Veterinarians are by no means held to an even standard of costs, practices, or suggestions offered. There are many veterinarian offices around most towns, and they're all likely to have different costs associated. 
Get a few opinions, even if you really like the first veterinarian. If the cost is too high, explore other options and find the vet in your area that is best for you. 
You can also find cheaper prescriptions by utilizing sites like Chewy or <a title="This is 1800petmeds home page." href="https://www.1800petmeds.com/">1-800-PetMeds</a> which offer prescription products at lower prices than the vet's office.
<h3>5. Don't Jump Into Decisions, Search for Community Partners</h3>
There are many groups and organizations dedicated to providing pet care at affordable rates. There are low-cost vaccine clinics and wellness clinics around the country. 
Additionally, you can go to pet stores big or small to talk with staff, look at bulletin boards, or join events that help you learn about affordable pet care or put you in touch with resources. 
<h3>6. Pitch $5-$10 Per Month into a Personal Vet Fund</h3>
Safeguard yourself by tossing $5 to $10 per month into a fund. This can be used in the event of a major issue in your pet's health. With any luck, after a few years, you'll have enough to pad any exorbitant costs that come your way. 
You can contribute even more if you're able to, but whatever you can spare will help you later. 
<h3>7. Ask for Help, Don't Do It Alone</h3>
At the end of the day, there are people who love you and your pet. If someone in your life is able to help you get essential food or care for your pet, there is no shame in asking them for help. 
It's not our first choice, and it's often the last choice for many of us, but the reality is that you and your pet matter. You deserve to have food, and so does your pet. If you're able to ask for help, here is your sign to do so.
<h2>Conclusion</h2>
We hope the resources in this article have been useful. If this article has helped you, let us know by leaving a comment! The more comments we get, the more pet owners are likely to see this post and find the support that you did. 
Please note that Lolahemp isn't affiliated with any of these websites or groups. We have simply accumulated the information we thought would be most helpful to pet owners and put it in one place.

National Financial Assistance Programs for Pet Owners

These programs are available across the U.S. and help pet owners with emergency vet care, food access, or housing support. Some are nonprofits; others are foundations or vet-run aid networks.

Important: many of the groups listed below have waiting lists, but don't let that discourage you. Most of them require you to email or contact someone from the organization with some key information about your pet.

Apply for these, or at the very least get in contact with some of the references on the websites. These are people who care about animals and have invested time and energy into helping them, so there's a good chance that they will offer more resources, even if they're not able to provide funding.

If you're applying to multiple groups, make sure to have your vet cost estimates and personal financial information (such as tax returns) available to display your financial need. Not all organizations require this information, but many do. Having this information handy can speed things up significantly, which is important if your pet is in need of help.

Options for Non-Emergency Pet Care Assistance

THE PET FUND
- Non-basic, non-urgent vet care: The Pet Fund provides financial assistance for adopted pets in the U.S. who need treatment for non-urgent and non-basic issues like cancer treatment or chronic conditions.
- View the site linked above to apply, and note that you must email The Pet Fund with a description of your animal's medical needs.
- The Pet Fund does not fund emergencies, they are dedicated to helping pets that need care that goes "above and beyond basic care" which does not require immediate treatment.

DIABETIC CATS IN NEED
- Apply for one-time assistance for costs associated with diabetes care for cats.
- Note that you must email DCIN's director with key information about your cat's condition and care.
- This is a "need" program, so you must express what makes you a low income caregiver.
JOSHUA LOUIS ANIMAL CANCER FOUNDATION
- Since its inception, the JLACF has helped with over $150,000 for families in need of cancer support for their pets.
- You can donate or apply for assistance on their website.
- The animal must have a "good prognosis"
THE BROWN DOG FOUNDATION
- The Brown Dog Foundations helps with gaps in a families ability to pay for future medical costs associated with a dog's condition.
- They do not help with past medical costs, and they may not cover the whole cost of any future treatment.
- Instead, they work on a case-by-case basis to assist families who need some money to cover the "gap" in their ability to pay.
THE ONYX & BREEZY FOUNDATION
- Onyx & Breezy grants cover current medical treatment or care costs when financial hardship is present.
- This group does not cover past medical debt.
- Individuals and animal-focused non profits can apply, and you must submit financial information to display your financial need.
FRANKIE'S FRIENDS
- This fund offers financial assistance for lifesaving emergency or special veterinary care for families who can't afford the full treatment.
- Your pet must have seen by a qualified veterinarian and payment must not have been made, because the fund doesn't pay for past debts.
- There are multiple funds listed on the application page, each one targeted to different types of ailments your pet could be facing.
PAWS 4 A CURE
- This group offers one-time grants up to $400 for non-routine veterinary care like injuries, illness, and medical equipment for dogs and cats.
- Does not cover past treatment costs.
- Applicants must be individuals or families, and must provide proof of financial hardship along with required documentation from your veterinarian.
PET HELP FINDER
- Pet Help Finder offers an easy way to find more affordable veterinary care, food pantry resources, and boarding services.
- They strive to only feature "financially friendly" groups and services.
- While this is not necessarily financial assistance, it can help while you get your options in line.
VETERINARY CARE CHARITABLE FUND
- This fund allows veterinarians to apply on behalf of their patients who are in need of care.
- Talk to your veterinarian about applying on your behalf, and make sure that you fall into one of the applicable categories for eligibility.
- Categories that apply are disabled veterans requiring a service dog, low-income senior citizens, good Samaritans who rescue domesticated animals, victims of domestic violence, and those facing financial hardship.

Options for Emergency Pet Care Assistance

THE SHAKESPEARE ANIMAL FUND
- This fund provides emergency veterinary assistance to low-income, elderly, disabled, or veteran pet owners.
- Only applies to people in Northern Nevada and Alachua County, Florida.
- Only for urgent medical situations, and funds go directly to the veterinarian. Pet owners are never asked to repay.

THE MOSBY FOUNDATION
- The Mosby Foundation assists in aid for non-medical emergency medical treatment for dogs, but doesn't cover diagnostics, routine care, or past vet bills.
- They help with unexpected medical costs that are expected suddenly, but do not help with same day emergencies.
- If your dog is in an active emergency, it's best to look at other financial assistance options.

WAGGLE
- Waggle is a non-profit that helps pet owners afford emergency veterinary care by creating crowdfunding campaigns.
- Licensed vets must confirm the cost of care, and all donations go directly to the vet.
- Cannot raise funds for treatments already completed, but only future costs.
- Waggle can also boost visibility for urgent cases due to its network of sponsors.
STAR RELIEF
- Star Relief offers grants of $100-$500 for emergency medical care for pets, paid directly to the service provider.
- Applicants must show financial hardship, have a diagnosis and cost estimate from the vet.
- This program does not cover services already performed.
MOLLY'S HOPE
- Molly's Hope offers grants typically between $300-$400 to help pet owners with the sudden costs of medical emergencies in their pets.
- You must submit a completed application and provide all of the information to be considered.
LEXI'S LEGACY
- Lexi's Legacy provides grants to cover necessary medical treatments for serious conditions and emergency services.
- Fill out the full application form and make sure to contact the organization if you have any questions.
PET ASSISTANCE INC
- This group partially assists with vet costs, offering between $100 - $350 in many cases.
- They cannot help after the procedure has been done, but only comes when the care has yet to be completed.
- CONTACTING THIS GROUP IS A WISE CHOICE, as their advice can often save you thousands of dollars - especially if you're being preyed upon by corporate services or dishonest practitioners.
BOW WOW BUDDIES
- This foundation provides grants up to $2,500 for serious medical treatments or emergency procedures for dogs, but not for other care.
- Grants are available for families in need or rescue groups requiring urgent care.
- Funding isn't available for immediate emergencies, but applicants can still apply within 30 days after a procedure has taken place.
- Only time-sensitive applications will be considered.

Resources for Free Pet Food

Many people would sooner give up their own dinner than let their pet go hungry. In fact, if you're reading this, we'd be willing to bet that you're one of those people.

Still, we all need to eat, and we should be able to do so without going broke in the process. Pet food, especially healthy pet food, can be expensive. There is no shame in worrying about pet food costs.

Fortunately for all of us, there are organizations around the country that make it a point to help out those who are struggling to pay for their pets' food. Let's look at some of the organizations that can help you and your pet manage to fill up without breaking the bank.

Free Pet Food & Food Pantries

PET HELP FINDER
- Pet Help Finder (also listed in a section above) can help you locate pet food pantries in your area.
- Click the link, select "i'm looking for", and select "Food Pantry and Supplies".
- Then, add your location and see if there are options in your area.
PETS OF THE HOMELESS
- This page allows you to locate pet food dontaions as well as shelters and resources in your area.
- Enter your city, then select the "choose the help you need" by clicking one or all of the resources you need.
- The page won't change, but the interactive map below the buttons will.
- Based on what you select, you will see the closest resources available to you on the screen.
FOOD FINDER
- Food finder has an interactive map of nearly all food pantries in the United States.
- Enter your zip code, and you'll see the pantries near you.
- While these are human food pantries, many will have pet food.
- Call the pantry in advance to see if they have any food for your pet.
MEALS ON WHEELS PET SERVICE
- Meals on Wheels offers food services for senior adults who may not be able to cook for, or feed themselves.
- They also offer services for pets.
- Apply for meals on wheels or contact them to learn more about whether or not you qualify to be a part of their pet services program.
FEEDING AMERICA FOOD BANK FINDER
- This page allows you to type your zip code and find the nearest food bank.
- Food banks for humans often have donations of pet food that they can spare for your pet.
- Call in advance to make sure there are supplies for your pet.

A Few Things You Can Do to Make Pet Care Costs More Manageable

The world is full of unexpected pet health costs, and when you're faced with issues, they can be very expensive. Even with the help of the resources above, it's smart to make a few decisions in advance that could help your wallet in the face of your pet's veterinary or general living costs.

Let's look at a few things that can substantially change the amount that it costs you to own a pet.

1. Prioritize Preventative Care, at The Vet's Office & At Home

While many pet health costs are sudden and unexpected, most are to be expected (at some point in a pet's life). General health decline is common in pets, but we can significantly prolong or eliminate the chances of many health issues from occurring with preventative care.

Always get routine exams, and always follow the preventative care guidelines set forth by your vet. These may cost a little bit of money in the short term, but the costs of preventative care are dwarfed by the massive costs of surgeries and other issues that preventative care aims to, well, prevent.

At home, you can make your pet's life more comfortable and this can ward off deeper issues. Things like non-slip carpets, stairs for your dog, hip & joint supplements, and more can all contribute to fewer health issues down the line.

The same is true for feeding your pet an appropriate amount of food (i.e. not too much) and treats to ward off obesity, all while getting enough exercise with them to keep their bodies well.

2. Ask Your Vet About Payment Plans or Sliding Scale Fees

Many vet offices offer different options for pet owners who can't afford treatment up front. You may need to consider a payment plan (many are interest free or very low interest) or a sliding scale payment.

Sliding scale payments can reduce your expenses based on your current income. Remember, there is no shame in requiring a little help for your pet. There are hundreds of thousands of people out there who aren't able to afford everything. Plus, the vast majority of American pet owners can't afford the $1,000+ expected for emergency medical care.

People need help, and that's why there are options. Use them if you have them!

3. Get Pet Insurance, Explore Your Options

Pet insurance varies in cost depending on the breed, species, age, and pre-existing health issues of your pet. You'll get the most bang for your buck if you get it as soon as possible because it protects you in the event that your pet has an unexpected injury or illness.

Be sure to look into the health issues common to your pet's breed and age, and also assess your home environment and lifestyle for the risks they posses to your animal. Search for pet insurance based on those factors.

4. Don't Choose The First Vet You Find

Veterinarians are by no means held to an even standard of costs, practices, or suggestions offered. There are many veterinarian offices around most towns, and they're all likely to have different costs associated.

Get a few opinions, even if you really like the first veterinarian. If the cost is too high, explore other options and find the vet in your area that is best for you.

You can also find cheaper prescriptions by utilizing sites like Chewy or 1-800-PetMeds which offer prescription products at lower prices than the vet's office.

5. Don't Jump Into Decisions, Search for Community Partners

There are many groups and organizations dedicated to providing pet care at affordable rates. There are low-cost vaccine clinics and wellness clinics around the country.

Additionally, you can go to pet stores big or small to talk with staff, look at bulletin boards, or join events that help you learn about affordable pet care or put you in touch with resources.

6. Pitch $5-$10 Per Month into a Personal Vet Fund

Safeguard yourself by tossing $5 to $10 per month into a fund. This can be used in the event of a major issue in your pet's health. With any luck, after a few years, you'll have enough to pad any exorbitant costs that come your way.

You can contribute even more if you're able to, but whatever you can spare will help you later.

7. Ask for Help, Don't Do It Alone

At the end of the day, there are people who love you and your pet. If someone in your life is able to help you get essential food or care for your pet, there is no shame in asking them for help.

It's not our first choice, and it's often the last choice for many of us, but the reality is that you and your pet matter. You deserve to have food, and so does your pet. If you're able to ask for help, here is your sign to do so.

Conclusion

We hope the resources in this article have been useful. If this article has helped you, let us know by leaving a comment! The more comments we get, the more pet owners are likely to see this post and find the support that you did.

Please note that Lolahemp isn't affiliated with any of these websites or groups. We have simply accumulated the information we thought would be most helpful to pet owners and put it in one place.