Financial assistance for veterinary care costs

Veterinarian and veterinarian technician with client examining dog

Pets enrich our lives with love, joy, and companionship, and we want to do what we can to keep them feeling their best. This includes making sure they get the veterinary care they need, which can sometimes come with financial challenges.

Veterinary teams are deeply committed to your pet's health and wellbeing. The fees they charge help support the skilled staff, equipment, and facilities needed to provide high-quality care—not just for your pet but for every animal they see.

The good news? A variety of options are available to help pet owners reduce and manage veterinary expenses.

Stay ahead with preventive care

Routine preventive care—like regular checkups, vaccination, and parasite control—is one of the best ways to keep your pet healthy and avoid larger medical bills down the road. Early detection of health issues can mean more treatment options and better outcomes, often at a lower cost than if found later on. If your veterinary clinic offers wellness plans, this might let you spread out the costs of preventive care over time. Some pet insurance plans also help cover preventive care services.

Prepare for the unexpected

No one expects an emergency. But injuries, sudden illnesses, or chronic conditions can happen to any pet. These situations often come with higher costs for diagnostic tests and treatment. If you're able to set aside a small emergency fund or purchase pet insurance, this can help you manage unexpected expenses and make a big difference when making tough decisions under pressure.

Consider community clinics and support programs

In some areas, nonprofit and low-cost clinics offer basic veterinary services for pet owners with limited incomes or those experiencing homelessness. These clinics typically focus on preventive care and may have limited capacity for emergencies or advanced diagnostic tests. But they can be a valuable resource for routine checkups, vaccinations, and spay/neuter services.

Talk openly with your veterinarian

If you're worried about costs, let your veterinarian know. Having that conversation early allows them to tailor a care plan that fits your budget while supporting your pet's needs. In some cases, they may recommend starting with treating what they believe to be the most likely problem or using only essential diagnostic procedures. While this can involve trade-offs—such as skipping a diagnostic procedure that might have provided an important piece of information—your veterinarian will work with you to provide the best care possible within your means.

Ask about payment options

Many clinics offer payment plans, deferred payments, and financing options or credit plans to help with your pet's care. Not all clinics are able to offer these choices, but it's always worth asking.

Seek out financial assistance

If you're unable to pay for necessary care and can't make financial arrangements, there may still be help available. Some veterinary schools and nonprofit organizations may be able to provide financial assistance for pet owners who can demonstrate a need. Another option is crowdfunding platforms like GoFundMe or Waggle.org.

The AVMA does not endorse any specific financial aid program, nor can we assist you with securing financial help for veterinary care. However, we've compiled a list of organizations that may be able to help. A few tips:

  • Be sure to visit each organization's website for up-to-date information, eligibility criteria, and application instructions.
  • Read each program's eligibility guidelines carefully before applying.
  • Provide any necessary documentation that supports your application.
  • Reach out to your local veterinary medical association or humane organization, who may keep a list of additional local resources.
  • Even if you've been turned down elsewhere, keep asking—new opportunities can arise.
General or emergency support

Banfield Foundation
Best Friends Animal Society
Brown Dog Foundation
Frankie's Friends
Paws 4 a Cure
Red Rover Relief
The Pet Fund
Actors and Others for Animals – in Southern California only

Cancer treatment support

Veterinary Cancer Society
Magic Bullet Fund

Breed-specific support

Some organizations provide breed-specific financial assistance. To find one for your pet, search online for organizations dedicated to the specific breed.