How to get help paying your vet bill: Fundraising and grants
Resources for Your Pet
We support nonprofits, municipalities, and animal welfare organizations whose companion animal programs help enrich lives through the human-animal bond.
If a vet bill is more than what you can pay, raising money through crowdfunding may help close the gap.
If you're struggling to pay for vet care costs, you're not alone. Our PetSmart Charities of Canada–Gallup State of Pet Care Study found that 50% of Canadian pet parents have skipped or declined needed veterinary care, most often because of cost.
Can I really fundraise to pay my pet's vet bill?
Yes you can, and many do. In fact, vet bills are one of the most common personal fundraising causes. Donors often include strangers moved by an animal's story, not just your friends and family.
GoFundMe is the largest general crowdfunding platform. You create a personal fundraising page, share it, and receive the donations yourself to put toward the bill. It's fast to set up and reaches the widest audience, but donors must trust you to use the funds as described.
How does a vet bill fundraiser actually work?
Specificity and proof. The campaigns that get funded tell donors exactly what happened, exactly what it costs, and show the pet. Before you write a word:
- Get the written estimate from your vet. Your goal should be the real number, itemized if possible — "Luna needs surgery for a torn ligament, estimate attached: $2,400" outperforms "please help with vet bills."
- Use clear photos of your pet — including, if appropriate, at the clinic. Donors give to a face and a story.
- Share it everywhere, repeatedly. Most donations come because someone saw the link. Post it, text it, ask friends to reshare it. One post is not a campaign.
- Post updates. Donors who gave once often give again — or reshare — when they see progress.
What don't these options cover?
Crowdfunding is usually used for the unexpected bill, not annual visits or routine and preventive care like vaccines. If routine costs are the real strain, consider a lower-cost clinics. Search online for nonprofit and community clinic options near you. Check out this article that outlines more ways to access lower cost care, including how to ask your vet for a plan that fits your budget.
