In an effort to support low-income pet owners facing financial constraints, the New Brunswick SPCA (NBSPCA) has launched the Happy Tails Fund—a new program aimed at enhancing access to essential veterinary services across the province. The Happy Tails Fund initially focuses on providing financial assistance for spay and neuter surgeries, along with basic vaccinations.

Made possible through contributions of the late June Hooper’s estate and funding from the Government of New Brunswick, the Happy Tails Fund addresses the growing need for affordable pet healthcare. The program’s primary objective is to reduce the number of abandoned animals by offering subsidized veterinary services to families unable to afford them independently.

The NBSPCA has partnered with several veterinary clinics to provide financial assistance for veterinary services. NBSPCA executive director Lesley Rogers says, “While the NBSPCA is known for enforcing animal protection laws and delivering public awareness and education campaigns, we also have a mandate to prevent animal cruelty. The Happy Tails Fund is an opportunity for us to intervene early by providing targeted financial support to help keep pet families together and keep animals out of shelters.”

As per CBC News, the NBSPCA plans to expand the program to include coverage for emergency veterinary care.