Costs & Financial Aid
Every patient is different, but we do everything we can to give you a clear estimate once we’ve examined your pet. See what to expect.
Request a Velvet Assistance Fund Appointment
How can I qualify for financial aid?
To receive financial aid through the Velvet Assistance Fund, you must book an appointment and complete the application process. Compassionate euthanasia is available for walk-ins and with an appointment if you would prefer a set time.
Our online appointment and application process lets you know if you'll qualify for financial aid in advance of your arrival so you can focus on your pet's visit. Funds are allocated towards covering the cost of an emergency exam with a doctor. It cannot cover the cost of diagnostics, wound care, surgery, or hospitalization. Our team will work with you to help explore options for medications through an outside pharmacy and alternate resources for your pet.
- Schedule a Velvet Assistance Fund appointment in advance of arrival.
- Once booked, you will receive instructions to complete the financial aid application.
- A team member will tell you if you qualify in advance of your appointment and discuss next steps.
Request a Velvet Assistance Fund Appointment
The assistance fund covers an emergency exam with a DoveLewis veterinarian. If needed, the veterinarian can offer basic care and write any necessary prescriptions to fill at a pharmacy of your choice. If you have questions about low-cost primary care clinics, our team has plenty of suggestions.
How much will the visit cost?
Every visit is different, because every patient is different. Advanced emergency and critical care can be expensive – just like going to a human emergency room or ICU. When a patient comes to DoveLewis, they are charged an emergency fee that covers the doctor’s initial exam and consultation. After the initial exam, you'll receive an estimate for any additional services needed to treat your pet such as diagnostics or treatments. No treatment is performed on your pet without your prior approval.
We can't give estimates over the phone.
Emergencies are serious and recommending a treatment plan is a sensitive process that starts with an in-person exam. We don’t give medical diagnoses, advice or estimates over the phone or through email because we must see and touch our patients to give them the best care possible.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why is emergency and ICU care more expensive?
Advanced emergency and critical care can be expensive – just like going to the human emergency room or ICU. These fees reflect the cost of operating a fully staffed advanced emergency care and critical care hospital around the clock.
What are the options for low income and financially restricted families?
There are financial aid options available, but our resources are limited. Clients experiencing financial difficulties may apply for help from Care Credit. Care Credit is a financing company assisting people who don’t have a credit card available to them.
DoveLewis clients may also apply for money from our donor-funded Velvet Assistance Fund. Clients who qualify for financial assistance through the Velvet Assistance Fund may have a portion of their medical bill covered up to $250.
What is CareCredit?
Care Credit is a financing company aimed at people who don’t have a credit card available to them. Clients experiencing financial difficulties may apply for help from Care Credit, and it is accepted at DoveLewis.
