Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Why is there no phone number on the Paws 4 A Cure website? How can I contact you?
A: Paws 4 A Cure is an all-volunteer organization with no set hours. As such, we are unable to provide inbound or outbound phone support. Most questions are answered on this FAQ page. Please read through the information below carefully.

Q: Where does Paws 4 A Cure get funding for its grants?
A: Our President and Founder, Keri, dedicates her personal time to fundraising—creating online campaigns, managing social media, attending events, and selling merchandise. Paws 4 A Cure is 100% volunteer-run, and Keri has never taken a salary since founding the organization in 2008.

Q: How do I apply for assistance?
A: Visit our Ask For Help page to review our guidelines and complete the application.

Q: Do you help animals in my state?
A: Yes, we assist dogs and cats across the United States, including Puerto Rico and Guam.

Q: Why do you only help dogs and cats?
A: As a small nonprofit, we are only able to support dogs and cats at this time. We hope to expand in the future.

Q: Will you help my 10-year-old Pit Bull?
A: Yes. We do not discriminate based on breed, age, weight, or diagnosis.

Q: Do you help with specific conditions (e.g., ACL issues, cancer, ear infections)?
A: Yes, we assist with all illnesses and injuries.

Q: Do you cover spaying/neutering or vaccinations?
A: No. We do not cover routine care. Please check our Helpful Resources page for other organizations that may.

Q: What is considered routine care?
A: Routine care includes spaying/neutering, vaccinations, flea/tick and heartworm prevention, and standard dental cleanings.

Q: What qualifies as routine dental care?
A: Routine care includes dental cleanings (with anesthesia), possibly with extractions for tartar, plaque, or gingivitis. Non-routine care includes treating fractured teeth, abscesses, or oral tumors.

Q: Do you pay for euthanasia or cremation?
A: No. We focus on treating illnesses and injuries only.

Q: Why do I need a diagnosis to apply?
A: A treatment plan must be in place from your veterinarian to determine eligibility.

Q: What are diagnostics?
A: Diagnostic services include bloodwork, x-rays, ultrasounds, MRIs, CT scans, and similar procedures.

Q: Do you help with medication costs?
A: Yes, for prescription medications related to illnesses or injuries (excluding flea, tick, and heartworm preventatives). We do not cover food.

Q: Will you pay for a wheelchair or medical equipment?
A: Yes. We may help with mobility aids and medical devices.

Q: How long does the application process take?
A: Once all required documents are received from you and your vet, we typically respond within 24 hours.

Q: Do you only help low-income households?
A: No. We assist anyone who can demonstrate genuine financial hardship.

Q: Why must I provide information about everyone in my household?
A: To accurately assess financial need, we must evaluate all adult household members.

Q: Is my personal information safe?
A: Yes. Your documents are securely stored and accessed only by essential Paws 4 A Cure staff. They are shredded when no longer needed.

Q: Will you share my information?
A: Never. We keep all applicant information strictly confidential.

Q: Can I apply again if I’ve received help before?
A: Possibly. Each request is reviewed on a case-by-case basis.

Q: Why don’t you cover previous veterinary bills or reimbursements?
A: We only cover expenses incurred after application approval. Payment is made directly to the veterinary office.

Q: Can I request assistance via email?
A: No. You must apply using the official form on our Ask For Help page.

Q: I applied but haven’t heard back. What should I do?
A: If all required documents were submitted, you should receive confirmation within 24 hours. If not, check your spam folder or email [email protected].

Q: Why must I share the fundraising page created for my pet?
A: Approved applicants are required to help promote their pet’s fundraising page. If requirements are not met, Paws 4 A Cure cannot fundraise on their behalf, and no payment will be issued.

Q: Why don't you help more animals?
A: We rely on complete applications to begin the review process. Unfortunately, only 1 in 20 applicants complete all required steps.

Q: Where do the funds come from to help pets?
A: From generous public donations and sales from our merchandise. We work year-round to raise these vital funds.

Q: Do you receive government grants?
A: No. We rely 100% on donations from individuals and businesses.

Q: Are donations tax-deductible?
A: Yes. We are a 501(c)(3) nonprofit, and all donations are fully tax-deductible.

Q: Do any of your staff get paid?
A: No. We are entirely volunteer-run. Our President has never accepted a salary.

Q: I want to host a benefit event—how can I help?  
A: Thank you! Please complete our event interest form.

Q: How can I help promote Paws 4 A Cure?
A: Share our posts on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, and LinkedIn!