Pets are cherished family members in millions of homes across the United States. But, sadly, only some folks can afford the best care for their fur babies.

However, some of the ideas the veterinary community has been planting to address these inequities are now bearing fruit. For example, nearly $3 million of funding has helped launch AlignCare, a program that aims to help financially challenged pet parents access veterinary care.

Community-based social services start by identifying those in the greatest financial and emotional need. That information is passed on to AlignCare, which works directly with enrolled providers. Based on a sliding scale, pet parents have a co-pay for discounted veterinary services, and AlignCare covers the rest.

Stay tuned, because we’ll keep following the important topic of accessible veterinary care.