October Fundraiser Helps Pets Belonging to Seniors, Disabled Persons & Women at Risk of Abuse

MILTON, ON, Oct. 3, 2013 /CNW/ - Veterinarians, veterinary clinic staff and pet owners across Ontario will come together during the month of October to help low-income pet owners pay for the necessary veterinary care for the pets that mean the world to them.

In its eleventh year, the Farley Foundation has brought pet owners from across Ontario together by creating a program through which people in need can receive assistance when their beloved pets suddenly face an illness or injury.  The Farley Foundation assists low-income pet owners by subsidizing the non-elective/emergency veterinary care of the pets that mean the world to them.

"As veterinarians, we recognize that the cost of veterinary care, depending on the procedure or treatment required, can be high for those who are on a limited income," says Dr. Mark Gemmill, President of the Farley Foundation.  "For people who live on restricted incomes, the decision to forego groceries or antibiotics for their dog who has just contracted a serious illness can be a very stressful situation," says Dr. Gemmill. "The Farley Foundation was created by Ontario veterinarians to help alleviate the cost of veterinary bills for people in our communities who are struggling to make ends meet."

With more than 4,300 people in need and sick/injured pets assisted to date, the Farley Foundation has been successful both because of empathizing pet owners, and a committed veterinary community whose veterinarians, veterinary technicians, support staff and volunteers go to great lengths to treat the pets, apply for funding on behalf of pet owners, and help promote the Farley Foundation.

This October, nearly 300 veterinary clinics across the province will participate in the 2013 P&G Pet Care Fundraise for Farley Month campaign. Throughout the annual campaign, veterinary practices hold a variety of awareness and fundraising events like dog walk-a-thons, raffles, trivia or comedy nights and open houses. Pet owners are encouraged to visit their local veterinary clinic this month to purchase Farley Foundation dog tug toys and cat jingle balls. P&G Pet Care has also donated 6,000 dog bag dispensers to the campaign.

The 2012 campaign raised over $224,000 - enough to help 546 sick or injured pets receive necessary veterinary care! The campaign is generously sponsored by P&G Pet Care, manufacturer of IAMS, IAMS Veterinary Formula and Eukanuba pet foods.

To view a list of participating clinics and their cities, please visit: http://bit.ly/1513t4H

To view a listing of the exciting events in support of the Farley Foundation across Ontario, please visit: http://bit.ly/151Kdo6

Can't make it to a clinic? Read about the people and pets we've helped to date, find more details about the Farley Foundation or make a donation directly at www.farleyfoundation.org

Established in 2002 by the Ontario Veterinary Medical Association, the Farley Foundation assists low-income pet owners by subsidizing the non-elective veterinary care of the pets that mean the world to them. Applications for Farley Foundation funding are made through veterinary clinics. Anyone concerned about the health of their pets should seek the assistance of their regular veterinarian.

Eligibility: Seniors receiving Guaranteed Income Supplement, disabled individuals receiving either the Ontario Disability Support Payment or CPP Disability, Ontario Works recipients, pets belonging to seniors' care facilities, and women at risk of abuse (SafePet participants). Other conditions apply. For full details, speak with your veterinarian or visit www.farleyfoundation.org

SOURCE: The Farley Foundation

For media inquiries only, contact Julia Hayes, Communications Coordinator, 1.800.670.1702, ext. 25 or [email protected]