The New Brunswick SPCA has announced an expansion of its Happy Tails fund.
The program was initially launched in 2024 to provide cat spay and neuter procedures for low-income pet families.
The program will now offer financial assistance for emergency veterinary care, ensuring that pets receive the medical attention they need without being surrendered due to high costs.
Executive Director Lesley Rogers highlighted the significance of this expansion, noting that Happy Tails has already helped over 250 families across the province.
“We’re seeing more families than ever having to make impossible choices between paying their bills and providing medical care for their pets,” Rogers said.
“When a family is forced to surrender their pet due to medical costs, it’s not only heartbreaking, but it also places additional strain on our shelter system.”
The program started after noticing the financial barriers that low-income families face when their pets need urgent medical care.
Rogers shared a touching story about a young cat named Tigger, whose family could not afford a necessary surgery.
Instead of surrendering the cat, the Happy Tails fund covered the cost, allowing Tigger to stay with his loving family.
Similar situations prompted the SPCA to expand the program to offer emergency veterinary assistance.
Tracy Marcotullio, executive director of the Oromocto SPCA, said they have seen success from the Happy Tails program.
“We’ve helped with amputations, dental work, cancer treatments, and more. Families who would have had to euthanize or surrender their pets now get to keep their beloved companions,” Marcotullio said.
She also explained the subsidies available through the program.
For dog spaying and neutering, families can apply for a $200 subsidy, while the cat program involves a $100 cost to the client, with the remaining expenses covered by the SPCA and participating veterinarians.
Marcotullio said the program is open to all types of pets, not just cats and dogs, ensuring that every family member receives the care they need.
The Happy Tails fund is supported by community donations and grants, and the NBSPCA aims to assist 500 families in the coming year.
Both Rogers and Marcotullio believe they will surpass that goal based on the successes they are seeing with the program.
For more information on how to apply for assistance or make a donation, visit the New Brunswick SPCA’s website.
