As service dog trainers, we have seen firsthand the profound bond that forms between a handler and their loyal service dog. These incredible canines provide not just assistance, but unconditional love and support, becoming invaluable family members. When a beloved service or pet dog falls ill, the emotional toll on us can be overwhelming. The situation becomes even more heartbreaking when our finances limit our access to crucially needed veterinary care.
If you find yourself facing this painful challenge, know that you are not alone. This article aims to offer guidance and support during this challenging time, highlighting available resources and steps you can take to ensure your trusted friend’s comfort and dignity.
Contact Local Animal Shelters or Humane Societies
Some dog rescue organizations provide low-cost veterinary care or can direct you to local veterinary services that do. They may also offer humane euthanasia services if necessary. If you have been paying for pet insurance and your invaluable canine needs a life-saving treatment there may be applicable discounts and free medical procedures available to you. Check your dog’s insurance, and their pet passport (if any) and explore your options thoroughly.
You may also want to consider leaving your loved paw friend at a trusted animal sanctuary in your area for a brief period. That way they can be looked after and you can visit them while you take some time to seek additional financing. We understand that this is a very tough decision and it can feel very wrong to leave your dog in the care of others but it may be for the best as you rebuild your financial standing so you can properly support yourself and your furry friend.
Crowdfunding
Consider starting a crowdfunding campaign or reaching out to friends and family for financial help. It is worth your time to search for a veterinarian in a less expensive area in your city. Additionally, look for a community or shelter clinic in your area that offers discounted services. Some vet offices charge a hefty premium based on their demographic and competitors in the area. Take advantage of this and compare pricing online.
Look for groups on social media that appear very fond of the breed of your dog. Their members may be open to crowdfunding the treatment for your dog. After all, if you have ever dealt with a medical emergency for your dog you are likely to be empathetic to others struggling with the same. For example, Boxers often have cardiac issues and there are support groups for dog owners online who share their experience. There are people out there who may be willing to help another soul move through the same experience they had. Don’t hesitate to take the first step and initiate contact if you need guidance and support.
Reach Out to Veterinary Clinics and Schools
Some clinics offer payment plans or discounts for low-income pet owners. Explain your situation honestly and see if they can accommodate a payment plan for you. Do not hesitate to consider a second opinion, there may be less expensive but equally effective treatment available for your dog from another veterinarian. You may have to pay a consultation fee and run more tests but your potential return on investment could be very favorable.
Veterinary schools often have clinics where they provide services at reduced rates. The students there need to accumulate experience to become reliable veterinarians and you need your dog to receive medical care at a reduced rate. Don’t think your precious paw friend will be treated worse if they were at a vet clinic. In fact, the vet schools could offer access to new treatments and medication that is not yet widely available.
Tips
Organizations like the ASPCA (American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals) or local animal welfare groups may have advice or resources specific to your area. The ASPCA has a useful page to find useful resources here.
If you are open to launching crowdfunding for your canine in need, then you might want to skip GoFundMe and go straight to the pet-centric platform WAGGLE. They might be the best place to connect with people who are looking to help dog owners like yourself.
If you still don’t have pet insurance then you may want to explore your options at PetAssure which has good discounts for veterinary care which you can apply when your paw friend is in need. Don’t forget to compare your pet insurance options before buying one.
If you are looking for more detailed advice on how to protect and care for your pet or service dog, you should explore our blog and consider browsing the Humane Society’s page for pet owners.
Palliative Care and End-Of-Life Services
If your valued life partner is dying then you may have already heard the term “palliative care”. Palliative care for dogs refers to specialized medical care aimed at improving the quality of life for dogs with serious or terminal illnesses. The goal is to manage your paw friend’s pain and discomfort, alleviate symptoms, and support the dog’s emotional and physical well-being. Palliative care does not seek to cure the underlying condition but rather focuses on providing comfort and relief.
It often involves a combination of medication, dietary adjustments, physical therapy, and emotional support for both the dog and its owners. Palliative care aims to ensure that the dog’s remaining time is as comfortable and enjoyable as possible. If the veterinarians can not offer a better solution you may need to prepare for the worst.
End-of-life services are provided by many organizations like the Animal Humane Society and AntiCruelty. Owner-requested euthanasia is sometimes free of charge so we recommend checking your options with local end-of-life service providers. Your loved canine can even do one last heroic act by donating organs to other dogs who are fighting for a chance at life so we hope you will consider that.
