There’s HELP for our four-legged friends
Trending
By RICK KESSINGER
rkessinger@lockhaven.com
LOCK HAVEN -- Animal lovers can rejoice as representatives of the Hardship Emergency Loan Program for Pets (HELP) came to the Clinton County commissioners work session Monday to raise awareness for their organization.
Founded and incorporated in 2010, HELP provides interest free loans to Clinton County pet owners who have exhausted all other financial means to allow for urgent treatment of their pets, thus alleviating unnecessary euthanasia.
HELP President Pam Blesh, and veterinary liaison and founder, Christina Frank, enthusiastically explained everything they do and everything they're about as an organization. "We know animal companions are truly amazing. That indescribable bond, loyalty and devotion between people and their pets. Each has a unique importance worthy of preserving," said Blesh.
HELP is funded through donations, fundraisers, and loan repayment with all of their work done by volunteers. From their first wine and cheese fundraiser alone they managed to meet their $10,000 finance goal before even beginning their loan program.
In order for a pet to be eligible for aid, first a veterinarian identifies a client with an immediate need, the client completes the loan application, the application is approved immediately, the proper care is initiated, the bill is submitted to HELP, and from there, the client repays HELP like they would a bank loan. This process allows the client to decide at what pace they can pay back their loan. The only criteria necessary is that the client is a Clinton County resident, demonstrate need and has a specific veterinary condition, Blesh said.
Accidents, fractures, trauma, diabetes, cancer treatment and exploratory surgeries are just a few of the conditions they cover as part of their services, Frank said. There are also a few exclusions they don't cover, such as relief from prior financial obligation, heartworm prevention, elective procedures (grooming, declaws, cosmetics), routine flea treatment and heroics.
Since 2010 they have helped over 126 families and taken in 158 members. They've received donations from not only Pennsylvania but also Maryland, Illinois and Massachusetts. The local community has even gotten involved in fundraisers like the Lock Haven University sororities who have done projects for them and Lock Haven pottery students. Under the direction of Vance McCoy, the LHU annual pottery sale gave 10 percent of their proceeds to the HELP program.
The commissioners offered their comments, with commissioner Pete Smeltz saying, "I hope financially you can sustain what you do forever and ever." Commissioner Paul Conklin added, "I think it's just wonderful to give people this opportunity. Thank you very much for having this available to our citizens "
When asked for comment, Frank responded, "As a veterinarian, it's such a relief to have this. We certainly hate the idea of someone euthanizing their pet because they don't have enough money for procedures."
If you would like to become a member all that's required is a $5 donation. More information can be found on their website at www.help4petspa.us.