Farley Foundation kicks off fundraising campaign to help pets in need of veterinary care
Michelle Stolz and her dog, Thor, do everything together. Even when Michelle uses the treadmill at the gym, Thor walks right beside her. A loyal guide dog, Thor gives Michelle independence, and he loves his job. When Thor fell ill one evening after eating dinner, Michelle was worried. But after rushing him to her veterinarian at Perth Veterinary Services in Stratford, Ont., the diagnosis was much worse than an upset stomach: Thor was suffering from gastric dilatation volvulus (GDV), commonly known as bloat. GDV is a life-threatening condition in which the stomach flips over and expands, trapping air and gases. Thor needed emergency surgery. But for Michelle, who relies on government assistance income, paying for the treatment was an obstacle. Her veterinarian turned to the Farley Foundation, and applied for funding to help cover Thor’s veterinary care. “One week after surgery he was back in his harness and excited to be on the job again,” says Michelle. “I’m so thankful this was a positive outcome for both of us. From my heart to the Farley Foundation, thank you for everything you do!” Fundraise for Farley Month On Oct. 1, the Farley Foundation kicks off its largest annual fundraising campaign to help low-income pet owners in Ontario. More than 300 veterinary practices across the province will organize events for Bravecto Fundraise for Farley Month. Funds raised will help pet owners in financial need — including seniors, disabled individuals, women at risk of abuse and others receiving government assistance — by subsidizing the cost of veterinary care for their sick or injured pets. Last year the campaign raised more than $253,000. To support the campaign, people can donate at a participating veterinary clinic to receive a free Farley Foundation tote bag, or online at www.farleyfoundation.org. Since its establishment in 2002 by the Ontario Veterinary Medical Association, the Farley Foundation has disbursed over $3.8 million to assist more than 9,000 pets in need. It subsidizes up to 100 per cent of the cost of care to a maximum $1,000 per pet or pet owner per year for vital treatments, including diagnostics, surgery, hospitalization and medications. Pet owners demonstrating financial need can apply for funding through their veterinarian. Bravecto Fundraise for Farley Month is generously sponsored by Merck Animal Health.
Fundraise for Farley Month helps sick and injured pets
When Honey, a seven-year-old golden retriever was adopted, her new family knew she hadn’t been properly cared for. But when they took the rescue dog to their veterinarian for a check-up, they received frightening news: Honey was suffering from a life-threatening infection and required immediate surgery. But for Honey’s adoptive family, who rely on government assistance income, paying for the treatment was an obstacle. Their veterinarian turned to the Farley Foundation, and applied for funding to help cover Honey’s veterinary care. “The Farley Foundation helped save Honey. We can’t stress our gratitude enough,” says Honey’s family. “Our prayers were for her to live the happy, healthy life she deserves, and thanks to the Farley funding, she’s able to do that.” On Oct. 1, the Farley Foundation kicks off its largest annual fundraising campaign to help low-income pet owners in Ontario. More than 300 veterinary practices across the province will organize events for Bravecto Fundraise for Farley Month. Funds raised will help pet owners in financial need — including seniors, disabled individuals, women at risk of abuse and others receiving government assistance — by subsidizing the cost of veterinary care for their sick or injured pets. Last year the campaign set a record, raising $273,000. To support the campaign, pet owners can visit a local veterinary clinic to donate, and in return they will receive a Farley Foundation bandana for their pet. Donations can also be made online at farleyfoundation.org. Since its establishment in 2001 by the Ontario Veterinary Medical Association, the Farley Foundation has disbursed $3.4 million to assist more than 8,000 pets in need. It subsidizes up to 100 per cent of the cost of care to a maximum $1,000 per pet or pet owner per year for vital treatments, including diagnostics, surgery, hospitalization and medications. Pet owners demonstrating financial need can apply for funding through their veterinarian. The foundation’s success is due in part to partnerships with companies like Merck Animal Health — the 2017 campaign sponsor — that share its passion for pets and supporting the people who care for them. For more information about Bravecto Fundraise for Farley Month, or to make a donation or find a list of participating veterinary clinics, visit www.farleyfoundation.org.