Do you or someone you know have a pet that needs veterinary care but can't afford it? The Animal Care Foundation (ACF) connects low-income elderly or disabled Minnesotans with member veterinary clinics that offer pro bono services as well as providing funds for care needed beyond the pro bono services. To receive assistance, please read on to learn about the application process and our qualifications.
Qualifications for Assistance
To qualify, individual’s :
1. MUST be a resident of either Hennepin, Ramsey, Anoka, Dakota, or Washington counties of Minnesota.
2. MUST be blind, disabled or 65 years or older.
3. MUST show financial need. Your household income cannot exceed 135% of the Federal Poverty Guidelines.
4. MUST not have any other pet currently enrolled in the program
1. MUST be a resident of either Hennepin, Ramsey, Anoka, Dakota, or Washington counties of Minnesota.
2. MUST be blind, disabled or 65 years or older.
3. MUST show financial need. Your household income cannot exceed 135% of the Federal Poverty Guidelines.
4. MUST not have any other pet currently enrolled in the program
Required Documents
1. Proof of residency (e.g., Driver’s license, utility bill, SSDI award letter, or signed application if homeless).
2. Proof of disability or age (e.g., ID showing birthdate, SSDI award letter, VA disability letter).
3. Proof of income (e.g., SSI award letter, Medicaid, SNAP, MSP).
4. Completed application with all documents.
2. Proof of disability or age (e.g., ID showing birthdate, SSDI award letter, VA disability letter).
3. Proof of income (e.g., SSI award letter, Medicaid, SNAP, MSP).
4. Completed application with all documents.
Important Information
- Only one pet per family for the pet’s lifetime.
- You must live in one of our service areas (Hennepin, Ramsey, Anoka, Dakota, or Washington counties of Minnesota).
- Funds are for necessary care or euthanasia only. No reimbursement for past expenses.
- Clients must contribute 10% of costs beyond the $250 clinic donation.
- Total assistance per pet is capped at $1,250 per year.
Client Responsibilities
- Arrive at appointments on time with your pet.
- Follow the treatment plan provided by the clinic.
- Maintain appropriate pet control during clinic visits.
- ACF and member clinics reserve the right to refuse service due to inappropriate behavior.
Common Questions
“What types of services are covered?” Answer : The services covered include routine exams, vaccinations, minor surgeries, and treatment for illness or injury. However, coverage may vary by clinic and the specific needs of your pet. Some clinics may also offer additional services.
“How much will I need to pay?” Answer : Each clinic provides $250 worth of pro bono veterinary care. If your pet requires care beyond that amount, ACF covers up to an additional $1000. Any costs beyond this will be your responsibility. Your clinic will explain any fees that may apply to your pet’s care.
“Who is eligible for ACF’s veterinary services?” Answer : ACF services are available to pet owners who are blind, disabled, elderly, and living on limited financial resources. Each client must go through an application process to verify eligibility.
“How much will I need to pay?” Answer : Each clinic provides $250 worth of pro bono veterinary care. If your pet requires care beyond that amount, ACF covers up to an additional $1000. Any costs beyond this will be your responsibility. Your clinic will explain any fees that may apply to your pet’s care.
“Who is eligible for ACF’s veterinary services?” Answer : ACF services are available to pet owners who are blind, disabled, elderly, and living on limited financial resources. Each client must go through an application process to verify eligibility.
