Resources for Low Cost and Free Vet Care
Pets have become an integral part of our families. An estimated 29 million dogs and cats live with families that participate in the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program, also known as food stamps. Needing public assistance is one measure of a family’s capability to purchase veterinary care. However, there are also middle-class families that live paycheck to paycheck, with limited funds for veterinary care, especially when the need involves high-cost services and/or emergency care.
The paradox we face is that while it may be logical that someone should not have a pet if they cannot provide veterinary care, but it is difficult to defend denying someone the companionship of a pet.
Low income families deserve companionship with animals and to enjoy all of the benefits that come from these relationships.
Why Should We Spay and Neuter Our Pets?
Spaying and neutering are routine, affordable surgeries that can prevent thousands of animals from being born, only to suffer and struggle to survive on the streets, be abused by cruel or neglectful people, or be euthanized in animal shelters for lack of a loving home.
The single most important thing that we can do to save cats and dogs from all the suffering and death that their overpopulation causes is to spay and neuter them.
Spaying and neutering are routine, affordable surgeries that can prevent thousands of animals from being born, only to suffer and struggle to survive on the streets or be euthanized in animal shelters for lack of a loving home.
Spaying and neutering makes a big difference! Just one unaltered female dog and her offspring can produce 67,000 puppies in only six years. In seven years, one female cat and her offspring can produce an incredible 370,000 kittens!
Affordable or Free Pet Care: Chicago
Wellness Exam
Spay and Neuter
Preventatives
Other
preventative care
services
Microchipping
Pop-up
Clinics
Dentals
Community Cats
Emergency Services
Medications
Vaccines
Special Surgeries
Below is a list of places in Chicago that provide free and/or lost cost medical services for animals. Use the guide/symbols above to see what services each location offers. Should you be interested in taking advantage of any services we recommend reaching out to the location to confirm the servies are still being offered. Some servives and locations might be temporairily or permanently suspended due to Covid-19 or other reasons.
Low Cost or Free Pet Care: Illinois
Nationwide Organizations/Foundations
Providing Pet Care Assistance
Please Read!
We have listed the services these resources provide but recommend contacting the resource you choose to use to make sure they are still providing the services. Some of the resources listed require credit checks and applications. Please remember just because you apply for help doesn't mean you will be approved. Please make sure to read the guidelines and stipulationns carefully. If you need assistance please email us at info@sfanimalrescueil.org. A volunteer would be happy to help you.
The Banfield Foundation helps close the gap by providing free preventive care to vulnerable pets through community clinics. Often in partnership with a community’s homeless shelters or veterans' organizations, We've also provided a link for a complimentary visit to a Banfield hospital.
Banfield Hope Fund
Deaf Dog Education Action Fund
The mission of the Deaf Dog Education Action Fund is to provide education and funding for the purpose of improving and/or saving the lives of deaf dogs. They are a non-profit organization founded to speak on behalf of and assist in the betterment of life for deaf dogs everywhere.
Deaf Dog Education Action Fund
Diabetic cats in need
The heart of their mission is to keep diabetic cats in their original, loving homes, regardless of the income level of their caregivers. They support diabetic cats in their original, adoptive home, shelter, and foster homes; help to rehome unwanted diabetic cats; and help to educate caregivers on the appropriate treatment of diabetic cats.
The Helping Paw Fund
"We are a resource for the community of East Central Illinois. From first time pet owners who are looking for pet friendly housing recommendations and training advice, to pet owners who have limited financial resources and are in need of medical assistance for their pet."