Anyone who owns a pet will probably tell you they are as important to the family as their two-legged friends. That means taking care of them when they get sick. Just like our medical bills, veterinary bills can be difficult to pay for.

It was the case with Karen Campbell. Campbell had to take her little Chihuahua Poppy to the vet for some pricy procedures.

“Poppy’s had several issues, hahaha, mainly the teeth,” Campbell said. 

Poppy also had flea and skin issues that had to be taken care of, but the dental work was the most expensive.

“The teeth were probably several thousand at least,” Campbell said.

Karen Campbell was on Facebook and came across “Family Forever Animal Foundation.” The nonprofit helps pay for a person’s vet bills if they’re denied medical credit, or approved for only a portion. You can almost call it animal gap insurance.

“We crowd-source all of our funding, so we attend community events and people make donations, and we really harness the power of social media,” said Stephanie Harris, director of the 501c3.

FFAF started in 2013 by a group of animal rescue friends. In the last 11 years, they’ve helped dozens of pets, including 52 in 2024.

“We may not be able to pay for the entire amount, but we will do what we can to offset the cost,” Harris said.

At one point, Campbell had a tough time paying the bills, but her financial situation improved considerably.

“Now, I’ve started getting some money from my dad from his passing, and I help them out by giving them donations back now,” Campbell said.

If you’d like to apply for help, or donate click here.