Portland, OR. DoveLewis Veterinary Emergency and Specialty Hospital is extending its financial assistance program to help all unpaid federal workers affected by the government shutdown. “We believe that pets are an important part of our lives, especially during difficult times,” said DoveLewis President and CEO Ron Morgan. “Supporting our community is an integral part of our mission, and we want to do what we can to help relieve some of the stress these families are experiencing.”
The DoveLewis Velvet Assistance Fund, a donor-supported financial assistance program, will be available to relieve some of the cost of emergency animal medical care through the duration of the shutdown. Eligible employees must be directly affected by the furlough and must show their furlough letter along with their matching state-issued government identification.
The Velvet Assistance Fund, which relies solely on donations from community members, is offered to low-income pet owners and covers up to $750 for animals with a good prognosis. Federal employees will receive the same offer for their pets experiencing emergency medical needs.
Each year, the DoveLewis Velvet Assistance Fund helps more than 1,700 pets and families.
From DoveLewis Veterinary Emergency and Specialty Hospital:
DoveLewis Emergency Animal Hospital, established in 1973 and based in Portland, Oregon, is the only nonprofit, 24-hour emergency and intensive care unit in the region. With 45 years of service to the community, DoveLewis has treated more than 500,000 animals. DoveLewis also has seven donor-supported community programs that serve animals in need and the animal-loving community. For more information, please visit dovelewis.org.