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A Pawsitive Mission helps New Hanover County residents access critical veterinary care for their pets during emergencies, serious illness, or injury. Many families face economic challenges that prevent them from affording life-saving treatments for their pets, leading to difficult decisions like economic euthanasia or relinquishing ownership. APM was established to reduce these situations, preserving the bond between families and their pets.

How We Help

APM provides financial assistance for urgent veterinary care, offering between $100 to $500 to help bridge the gap for families in need. Applicants are expected to cover part of the treatment cost and explore all available financial resources before seeking help. All funds go directly to the veterinary clinic providing care. 

As a volunteer-driven program under Paws-Ability, APM relies entirely on donations and fundraising efforts. By supporting APM, you directly impact local families, veterinary professionals, and pets in need. You can contribute through volunteering, sponsoring events, or donating.

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How You Can Help

Veterinary practices play a key role in educating families about financial assistance options. Practices are encouraged to familiarize themselves with our guidelines before referring families. We are always available to collaborate with local clinics to help pets and their families. Contact us to learn more about our program!

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Veterinary Community

Am I Eligible for Assistance?

The following lists are the guidelines and screening criteria for assistance. Decisions are based on several factors including medical urgency, financial need, eligibility, and available funding. If you do not meet the criteria listed, your request for financial assistance will be denied. Paws-Ability also reserves the right to deny a request for financial assistance to anyone for any reason.

Eligibility Criteria:

  • New Hanover Co. Resident

  • Assistance is limited to one per household.

  • Owners must cover part of their pet’s treatment cost.

  • Financial help must be approved by Paws-Ability before treatment.

  • We do not reimburse costs that have already been paid.

  • Owners must be able to manage future care expenses for their pet.

  • Pets must be spayed or neutered (see website for assistance).

  • Funds are for families with an established bond and history of care for their pet.

we DO NOT assist with:

  • Annual Wellness Exams

  • Vaccines (rabies, distemper, bordatella, etc)

  • Preventatives (heartworm, flea, tick, etc.)

  • Routine dental care

  • Chronic health issues (ie allergies, cancer treatments, diabetes)

  • End of life services or cremation

  • Pets used for breeding

  • Community cats 

  • Animal rescues 

The
Application
Process

Step 1:

Before applying, the following must be determined:​

  • Your pet has been examined and diagnosed with an emergent condition with a favorable prognosis

  • Financial hardship prevents you from following the recommended treatment

  • All financial alternatives, such as Care Credit, have been explored

Step 2:

Complete an application and provide the following:

  • Description of financial hardship 

  • Results of Care Credit application 

  • A treatment estimate and prognosis provided/confirmed by treating veterinarian

Step 3:

Before approval for assistance is determined:

  • Volunteer reviews the application

  • Applicant is contacted to confirm information provided

  • Treating veterinarian is contacted to discuss treatment and prognosis

Our Impact

"I'm not working right now, I'm actually trying to find a job, if they hadn't helped I wouldn't be able to take care of him...”

-Toe's Family

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