Emergency Veterinary Care for Pets of the Homeless

During 2025, Feeding Pets of the Homeless provided veterinary care to 134 pets belonging to 119 veterans. Of those veterans, 64 were participating in a VA program. The average cost per pet was $687. Care included 197 veterinary appointments, of which 32% were follow-up visits, helping ensure pets could continue to heal while reducing financial barriers for their veteran guardians. In total, Feeding Pets of the Homeless provided $92,059 in veterinary care.

This veteran is connected with a U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs case manager in Bristol County, Massachusetts.

Hello, my name is Willow, and I am a 3-year-old Pit Bull. My dad and I live in a motel through a VA voucher because we are currently experiencing homelessness. My dad served three tours with the Marines, and I am his emotional support dog and provide comfort and companionship when he experiences symptoms of PTSD. Loud noises and large crowds are often overwhelming for him.

While getting ready for bed one night, my dad noticed a large mass on my neck that was growing in size. He began to panic, thinking that it could be cancer. My dad knew he did not have money for surgery, so he started searching the internet for resources. That is when he came across Feeding Pets of the Homeless online. He filled out an Emergency Veterinary Care application and worked with his VA case manager to complete the required verification.

Once the application was approved, I was assigned a case manager who found a local veterinary hospital that was willing to help us. I went in for an examination, and the doctor said the mass needed to be removed. My surgery was scheduled, and I returned to the hospital for the procedure.

On the day of surgery, I was sedated while the doctor performed a lumpectomy. I remained at the hospital for the day and received fluids. The veterinary technician contacted my dad and let him know that the surgery went well and I could be picked up. I was sent home with an e-collar and pain medication. Now I am back with my dad recovering.

Thank you, Feeding Pets of the Homeless, for helping me feel better.

Feeding Pets of the Homeless contributed $1,603 toward Willow’s veterinary care after a discount from the veterinary hospital.

Text from owner:

Thanks so much Michelle and the whole team. Your organization truly is amazing! I am so grateful for your much needed help with Willow. God Bless!

Willow was fortunate to receive the veterinary care she needed before the mass grew larger. Unfortunately, not every case has the same outcome. In 2025, eight pets belonging to veterans required humane euthanasia.

With your support, we can help even more pets belonging to veterans and others experiencing homelessness access essential veterinary care when their guardians cannot afford it.

Links:

• Feeding Pets of the Homeless