When Stanley was just eight months old, his guardian Kelly noticed something was terribly wrong. He had begun to limp and struggled to sit, lay down, or play with his brother. 

On their way to the veterinarian, Kelly sensed his pain and it broke her heart. All she wanted was for him to be healthy and happy.

When the veterinarian said that Stanley had a luxated patella and needed surgery, Kelly’s heart sank.

She was already struggling to make ends meet as a community health worker for a nonprofit. The unexpected expense was a terrible blow.

But she loved Stanley so much, and was determined to find a way to pay for his surgery so that he could be the happy pup he deserved to be.

She soon learned about Todd’s Medical Fund, a new program that provides financial assistance so beloved pets get the veterinary care they need.

“People often call shelters to surrender their pets because they can’t afford a major medical procedure. It’s heartbreaking to watch families tearfully surrender a beloved family member because of medical costs. Families shouldn’t be torn apart because of money.” said SPCA-NN executive director Jill Vacchina Dobbs.

Approved Todd’s Fund grants cover up to 80% of the pet’s medical bill, including required follow up care. This program keeps pets healthy, out of the sheltering system, and in their loving homes. 

Additionally, Todd’s Fund can be used for end-of-life care, including at-home humane euthanasia and communal cremation so that people can help their furry family members pass peacefully and pain-free. (Click here to learn more about Todd’s Fund, and whether you qualify.)

Thanks to Todd’s Fund, Stanley was able to get his surgery.

And instead of stressing over vet bills, Kelly was able to focus on Stanley’s recovery.

“Four months later, I no longer have anxiety about how I was going to afford such a large, orthopedic surgery for my dog and instead get to focus on Stanley finally getting to sit and lay down normally and play with his brother and neighborhood pups,” said Kelly. “Thank you so much to Todd’s Medical Fund, the SPCA-NN staff, and Dr. Morgan at Mountainview Animal Hospital, because of you Stanley gets to be the normal, mischievous puppy that I know and love.”

It’s only thanks to YOU, our supporters, that pets like Stanley can receive the care they need and deserve!

This fall, a group of generous donors has offered to match up to $50,000 in life-saving funds. This is our biggest fundraiser yet and we need your help to reach our goal.

Please give between now and Giving Tuesday, November 30, and your gift will be matched dollar-for-dollar, doubling the impact of your generosity.