In these challenging times, sometimes the ones to suffer the most are our pets. As if it's not bad enough when the economy is stable, what's happening with our current state of affairs is tragic. People are losing their jobs, having their homes foreclosed on, among other things, and as a result are no longer able to care for their pets.
Case in point. I received a call yesterday morning (one of many mind you) from a man living in upstate New York who was looking for someone who could help him help his dog. His Collie needs surgery and as he recently lost his job can't afford the more than $3000 he was being told it would cost. I asked him if he'd spoken with his vet about a payment plan, but he lives in a rural community and his vet was not equipped to do the surgery.. He and his family are devastated at the potential prospect of not being able to provide their dog with the care he so desperately needs. So where can these pet parents turn in these times of need?
Fortunately for Mr. Woodcock, the dog's owner, he lives close enough to New York City (100 miles) to tap into the resources of a truly amazing animal hospital, the Animal Medical Center (AMC). AMC offers a variety of free or subsidized services to those in need through the Frank V.D. Lloyd Fund for Guide Dogs, Seniors’ Animal Veterinary Effort, and Patient Assistance Fund. In addition, The AMC offers a Pet Outreach Program as well as counseling and bereavement services. I suggested that Mr. Woodcock contact them directly to talk about how they might help him. I'm happy to say that he called me back late yesterday afternoon to tell me that he and his Collie would be making the trip down to get the care and treatment the dog needs.
Hopefully for Mr. Woodcock and his beloved Collie there will be a happy ending to this story. Let's hope and pray that others find their way to those who can and will help them during their time of need.
