REcognizing and Supporting Pets and Owners in NeeD
The RESPOND Fund provides support for veterinary care for seriously ill or injured animals whose owners cannot afford the full cost of the necessary treatment.
- For clients who demonstrate financial need, the fund offers up to $1,000 per animal.
- The fund is intended for urgent needs rather than general or preventive veterinary care.
- RESPOND can be utilized on a one-time basis depending on client needs and availability of funds.
Through the RESPOND Fund, the UW School of Veterinary Medicine aims to increase access to the specialty care offered by UW Veterinary Care for those pet owners who demonstrate limited income based on a variety of eligibility criteria.
Some have asked why the hospital cannot offer free or reduced cost care directly for those individuals. UW Veterinary Care receives less than 15% of its operating budget from state tax dollars; the rest of its operations must be met through other revenues sources.
To meet its teaching and service mission, the hospital relies on income from charging for its services as well as from gift dollars. Gift dollars enable investments in advanced equipment, enhanced facilities, and, through the RESPOND Fund, direct client support.
The RESPOND Fund can only be used for animals that are seen and treated at UW Veterinary Care. Financial need is determined by the UW Veterinary Care business office. For more information, please contact UWVC Administration.
