Pet owners say companionship, love, company and affection are the number one benefits of owning a pet. According to the National Pet Owners Survey (NPOS), pet ownership is currently at its highest level, with 63% of all U.S. households owning a pet which equates to more than 69 million households. Americans own approximately 73 million dogs and 90 million cats. The steady increase in pet ownership confirms that a growing number of us are realizing pets truly enhance our lives. Pets not only provide unconditional love and affection, research now shows that they also provide significant health benefits. All this may be why pets are now an integral part of the family, however, every year over one million pets go without veterinary care in the United States because their owners can’t afford it.
Please explore all of our special funds below, and learn how you can help support our mission of helping family pets who are in need of emergency or specialty care at PVSEC.
Our Programs
Emergency Assistance Fund
Pets are a vital part of many families, yet every year more than one million pets go without critical veterinary care in the United States. Although there is a financial responsibility in caring for a beloved pet, it is devastating when an owner’s financial situation makes them unable to provide veterinary care for a treatable, yet life-threatening conditions.
Cancer Care Fund (Asta's Angel Fund)
In 2008, the Cancer Care Fund was created to memorialize Charles & Laura Aftomis' beloved wire haired fox terrier, Asta, who passed away from lymphoma. After her passing, they wanted to help others who couldn't afford the costs associated with cancer treatments.
Eye Care Fund (Maggie's Fund)
Maggie's Fund was started by Kristy and Rick Wright in honor of their very special Maltese, Maggie. Maggie suffers from glaucoma, is blind in one eye, but with the help of the great care she receives at PVSEC, she has retained sight in her other eye. Maggie has been a real trooper through many procedures and special medications every day. Maggie's Fund was created so that other wonderful pets could receive the same excellent care that Maggie has had throughout her lifetime.
Pittsburgh Area K-9 Units
Retired dogs from the canine unit are many times adopted by the police officers who worked with them. After their service days, these animals no longer have veterinary care provided by the police department, and their owners are responsible for all expenses. ACAF has this special fund to honor these exceptional dogs for their distinguished service, and to help provide for any specialty or emergency services they need.
