The Humane Society has received a $50,000 PetSmart Charities grant.

Lack of affordable pet wellness, training, and education programs is one of the main reasons pets are surrendered to local shelters, according to a DACHS press release. Pets in low-income communities often lack access to basic veterinary care such as spay/neuter, vaccinations, dental care, and other medical and preventative care due to cost and other factors.

DACHS hopes to help pets and pet parents in need with a $50,000 grant from PetSmart Charities, according to a press release. The grant will help around 200 pets in Doa Ana County through the Animal Relief Fund program.

DACHS uses HUD income guidelines to determine who is eligible for the program. If eligible, pet owners receive vouchers for veterinary care, vaccinations, and long-term prescription medications.

Ownership of a pet should be accessible to all, regardless of financial status, said DACHS Executive Director April Anaya. The PetSmart Charities grant keeps pets in loving homes and gives owners access to veterinary care that can save their pets' lives.

According to Kelly Balthazor, Senior Community Grants Manager at PetSmart Charities, 50 million pets lack access to affordable veterinary care. “With partners like DACHS, we develop innovative, long-term solutions. Giving pets a better life benefits pet parents and families.

DACHS began in 1955. DACHS strives to keep people and pets together through its Animal Relief Fund and Ruff to Ready dog training program.

Since its inception in 1994, PetSmart Charities has awarded over $500 million in grants.

Details Here