(some names and photos have been changed to protect privacy)
One Saturday morning Terry woke up to face a choice that no pet owner should have to face. Her loyal family pet Frisco, a Boxer who was just eight years old at the time, had a swollen face. She immediately knew something was very wrong and brought Frisco to the veterinary clinic just down the street.
Frisco had an abscessed tooth that needed to be removed – a surgical procedure that the family could not afford on their limited seniors’ income. The prognosis was good since the cause was treatable, but the news was devastating as it was outside their financial reach.
Terry had to decide if she should surrender Frisco to the Humane Society in hopes that he would get the necessary treatment and find a new home, or if she should consider euthanizing Frisco.
Terry dreaded the idea of telling her grandchildren that they would have to say goodbye to Frisco – especially her granddaughter Isabelle to whom Frisco is particularly attached. He loves cuddling with her on the couch and sleeping just outside of her bedroom door when she is visiting.
In desperation, Terry started calling local animal rescue centers in hopes that they might offer a solution, or at least assistance with payment. One lucky call to the Humane Animal Rescue Team [HART] in Edmonton pointed her toward Tails of Help, an organization that helps pet owners in financial need.
Terry finally had a lead! She called her veterinarian and inquired about Tails of Help. Luckily, the veterinary clinic was able to submit an application on Terry and Frisco’s behalf and the additional funding came through in just 2 days.
“Frisco’s surgery was booked and we paid our portion,” says Terry who was impressed and surprised at the quick turnaround.
Frisco is doing well now, and has fully returned to the usual routine with Terry and her husband, including weekend mornings spent having tea and cookies in bed!
They remain thankful to have found Tails of Help, and that the urgency of the medical situation is taken into account. Tails of Help provides assistance for essential veterinary care for qualified low-income Alberta families, and ensures that the process provides urgent care in a timely manner.
“You’re willing to help,” she says gratefully. “And you’re willing to do it quickly.”
To find out more about Tails of Help and how you can support our cause by volunteering or donating, please visit: www.tailsofhelp.ca/help
