Doña Ana County Humane Society receives $50,000 grant from PetSmart Charities to increase access to affordable veterinary care in Doña Ana County
One of the most common reasons pets are surrendered to local shelters is the lack of affordable pet wellness, training and education programs. Due to cost and other barriers, pets in under-resourced communities often do not have access to basic veterinary care such as spay/neuter services, vaccinations, dental care and other medical and preventative care.
With a $50,000 grant from PetSmart Charities, the Doña Ana County Humane Society (DACHS) aims to support pets and pet parents in need by providing veterinary care voucher assistance through the Animal Relief Fund program. DACHS financially qualifies pet owners for the program by using the Housing and Urban Development (HUD) income guidelines. If pet owners qualify, they receive vouchers for veterinary treatment, vaccinations, and long-term prescription medications for their pets. Funding from the PetSmart Charities grant will provide assistance for approximately 200 pets in Doña Ana County through Animal Relief Fund program vouchers.
“Having the life-changing experience of owning a pet should be available to everyone, regardless of financial status. The assistance the PetSmart Charities grant provides allows pets to remain in loving homes and gives pet owners access to veterinary care that can change and sometimes even save their pets lives,” said April Anaya, Executive Director of the Doña Ana County Humane Society.
“We know that 50 million pets across the country lack access to affordable veterinary care,” said Kelly Balthazor, Senior Community Grants Manager at PetSmart Charities. “Together with partners such as the Doña Ana County Humane Society, we’re creating innovative, sustainable solutions. Giving pets better lives also improves wellness for pet parents and families, too.”
To learn more about Doña Ana County Humane Society and the Animal Relief Fund, CLICK HERE or call (575) 647-4808.