H.A.N.D.'S MFA

-MEDICAL FINANCE ASSISTANCE-

What it is

H.A.N.D. was started originally to assist animals in need in shelters who were adoptable other than needing some medical care that was beyond the finances of the shelter. H.A.N.D.then proceeded to help other animals in need of medical treatment who were rescued by individuals that could not afford such treatment. Because of this additional program, we were able to assist in paying for surgery for thousands of animals and many other treatments necessary for the well-being of animals.

How it works

If you are a qualified 501(3) (C) organization in need of medical treatment you can apply for assistance.

After review, you are notified of participation in the program. Because funds are low at times, it may take awhile to raise the money needed for treatment. After receipt of the application, we will fax or mail a letter of introduction to their veterinarian, informing them of the program, introducing ourselves, and asking that the vet work with us on payment arrangements for the animal's medical needs.

The  animals that are participating in the program will be listed online, with their medical needs and bio, the estimated cost of treatment, and how much money has been raised for their needs so far. All donations to H.A.N.D. are tax deductible, and receipts will be sent to those donating funds for this worthwhile cause. The animals bio is listed along with a photo of the animal in need, and we will make every effort to raise the money needed for treatment.

All funds raised for the animal's treatment will be paid to the veterinarian in attendance. In NO CASE will any moneys be paid to the shelter, rescue, individual or to anyone other than the veterinarian. No Moneys will be paid to reimburse for any portion of the bill already paid. All money received for the animal will be paid to the veterinarian ONLY who has provided the care.

Who is eligible

Any animal (no personal pets) from a qualified 501(3) (C) organization is eligible for participation in this program, providing the rescue fill in an application for assistance, and follow the guidelines of the program.

Do I have to repay the money raised for the animal's care?

No. Although, we do ask that if you can pay any portion of the animal's care, you do so, and if at any time in the future you are able to send a small donation to help out with other animals in need, it is much appreciated so that H.A.N.D. can continue to assist other animals in need. Repayment is not necessary, however, in order to participate.

How long will it take to raise the money needed?

We can give no guarantees or specific time when the money will be available for your animal's care. Donations are slow at times, but when the money comes in for your animal's care, we will list on the website in your animal's bio how much has been raised to date. If your animal is requiring immediate care, and your veterinarian will not wait on payment, we suggest you find other means to pay for the care, as we cannot guarantee that funds will be available at the time of need.

What won't H.A.N.D. pay for?

Because funds are limited, we have to set some guidelines. We will not pay for:

· Vet care for injuries/problems caused by shelter or rescue

· Normal routine office visits

· Normal routine vaccinations and rabies shots

· Special diets for animals with continuing problems, such as EPI, kidney problems, etc...

· Medication needed for long term care (over 6 months time)

· EPI enzymes/medications

· Possible other ongoing problems/treatments.

What if a family member pays my vet bill with their credit card. Can you reimburse them for the bill?

No. All moneys raised for animals through H.A.N.D. MUST be paid to the veterinarian. No reimbursements will go to any individuals. All moneys raised FOR medical treatment for animals must go for medical treatment paid directly to your veterinarian.

What happens if you raise more money than needed for the animal's care?

If this happens, we will contact the donors who have donated the excess and ask them if they would like the money to go into the "general H.A.N.D. fund" for the next animal that is in need, or if there is another animal that they would like to assist.