Program Name

Life-Savers
Financial assistance for indigent animals with life-threatening medical emergencies.

Vision

It is the goal of LifeSavers that no companion animal should ever have to suffer in pain or die because their caretaker does not have the funds available to get the necessary veterinary care to save its’ life.

Mission

The mission of LifeSavers is to provide financial assistance for animals suffering from life-threatening conditions that require specific and immediate veterinary care.

Date

The program will start issuing grants on July 1, 2005. A capital campaign will be conducted from Jan - June 2005 to raise funds for the program.

Situation

Unexpected accidents or life-threatening illnesses can occur at any time during a pet’s life. Most pet owners are able to financially meet their responsibilities. Unfortunately some pet owners have difficulty affording these vital medical services.

Owners who are struggling financially are faced with a difficult decision that often results in the pet being “put to sleep” for an otherwise treatable condition.

Summary

The LifeSaver Fund will provide financial assistance to indigent owners of animals in need of life-saving medical assistance. The LifeSaver program empowers veterinarians to treat animals in need and receive just compensation for their professional skills. Veterinarians decide who is eligible and who will receive a grant under program guidelines. Final grant approval verifies that funds are available and allocated to cover treatment cost.

Veterinarians must participate in the program and have adequate funds available in their account to cover the cost of treatment in order to be approved for a LifeSaver Grant. Funds raised by a clinic or hospital will be placed in their account and matched with fundraising efforts from the Atlanta Animal Alliance, Inc. ($10,000 to start). Monthly reports will be provided to each hospital that shows the amount of funds available for use that month.

Positive publicity will be generated and focus on the life-saving efforts of the veterinarian and the practice.