At Emancipet, we believe that no one should ever have to choose between taking care of their pet and paying their bills. That’s why we’ve built our entire nonprofit model around making high-quality veterinary care accessible and affordable for everyone—regardless of their financial situation.
But we don’t do it alone.
We rely on the kindness and generosity of people just like you—our neighbors, our clients, and our broader community—through something we call Pay It Forward.
You’ve probably heard of the concept of “paying it forward.” It’s a simple but powerful idea: when someone helps you, you pass that kindness on to someone else. At Emancipet, Pay It Forward is exactly that. It’s a movement of compassion that connects those who can give with those who need a little help. It’s a community in action—and it’s working.
Why Do We Need Pay It Forward?
Because the need is real—and it’s growing.
There are 60 million pets in the U.S. living with families who cannot always access affordable veterinary care. That includes 730,000 in Houston, 300,000 in Central Texas, and 573,000 in Philadelphia—the very communities we serve. At Emancipet, 7 in 10 of the people we help live in neighborhoods where household incomes fall below the regional average. These are the very people our mission is here to serve—loving pet owners who, with a little support, can keep their pets thriving.
Recently, there have been several media stories about the rising cost of care, and pet families having to skip or decline care.
Pay It Forward is how we meet that need. It fuels both the care—discounts, payment plans, and community-based support. It’s not just a way to give; it’s a way to belong to a shared mission of care and equity.
Why Pay It Forward?
Because life is unpredictable.
One month you’re doing fine, and the next a job loss, medical emergency, or rent hike can throw everything off balance. We meet people in those moments every day—loving pet parents who want the best for their pets but are worried they can’t afford the care they need.
Pay it Forward at Emancipet exists so we can say yes—yes to a heartworm treatment, yes to a dental cleaning, yes to a check up and vaccines —even when money is tight. We offer zero-interest payment plans for high-cost procedures through our ZIPP (Zero Interest Payment Program), and we provide additional discounts for those facing financial hardship.
Behind every discounted service, every act of veterinary care—there’s someone who paid it forward to make that possible.
Who Are Our Pay It Forward Heroes?
They’re everyday people who believe pets deserve care and families deserve support. Some are clients who donate after their visit and chip in a few extra dollars when they can. Some are donors—like the Rachael Ray Foundation or supporters like Shelly Todd—who give generously to support our mission. And some are first-time givers moved by the idea that their contribution can help a pet in need, right here in their community.
Thanks to them, we never turn anyone away from care at our clinics. That’s a promise we’ve kept, and one we’re determined to continue.
Want to Help?
You can. Whether it’s $5, $50, or more—when you Pay it Forward with a donation to Emancipet, you’re helping a pet family get the care they need today.
Together, we’re not just providing veterinary care—we’re building a culture of care and connection. We’re proving that communities are strongest when we show up for one another. And we’re making sure that every pet gets a chance to live a healthy, happy life—no matter their owner’s financial circumstances.
Thank you for being part of this movement.
Let’s keep paying it forward—together.
With gratitude,
Cheryl Katon
CEO, Emancipet
