AAHA Helping Pets Fund reinstated after $25,000 donation from VPI

Denver

-- A benevolent fund for pets that was suspended as a result of too many requests and too little funding has resumed its grant giving after a $25,000 donation from Veterinary Pet Insurance Company (VPI).

The Helping Pets Fund, operated by the American Animal Hospital Association's (AAHA) Foundation, was founded in 2005 and has awarded more than $800,000 for the care of more than 3,000 pets. But AAHA announced the suspension of the fund in late April, explaining that grant requests had tripled since November 2008. The program was expected to be reinstated in July 2009.

"We are excited and appreciative for this wonderful gift," says AAHA Executive Director John Albers, DVM. "By supporting AAHA Helping Pets Fund, VPI is helping change and many times save the lives of companion animals that otherwise wouldn't be able to receive help."

VPI's gift allows AAHA to resume the program immediately, about a month earlier than expected.