Harley's Hope

Pets are family, too! Can you imagine having to give up a sibling or parent because they needed care that you couldn’t afford? Well, that happens every day with pets and their people – people who are retired, have lost their jobs, are facing life’s challenges – and just need a little help to protect the special bond they share with their pet. Harley’s Hope is here to assist older Colorado pet parents during those difficult times. We do this because at Harley’s Hope, we believe their love is unconditional.
What Type of Help Do You Need?
Veterinary Care AssistanceFinancial help may be available for a variety of veterinary procedures including surgery, hospitalization, and some basic care. |
Robert J. Collins Memorial Fund - In-Home Pet CareAvailable to help seniors who are recovering from illness or injury at home, but are still unable to care for their companions. |
Louis Steinwedel Memorial Pet Cancer FundIn honor of Louis’ valiant efforts to save his own dogs, the Louis Steinwedel Memorial Pet Cancer Fund will be used to help low-income, older adults with animals facing cancer treatment. You can also donate to this fund by memorializing one of your past pets on the Memorial Wall. |
Emergency Boarding/Foster CareBoarding or foster care services may be available for pets of seniors who are or will be hospitalized. We are unable to provide this service for housing situations. |
Pet DepositsSeniors moving out of their homes due to financial or health constraints may apply for help with pet deposits. |
TransportationTransportation to and from veterinary appointments may be available. Advance request required. |
Frequently asked questions
What applicants need to know before applying
How do I know if I qualify for help?If you are a low-income Colorado pet parent, 50 years or older, and are attempting to provide at least basic care for your companion, you qualify to apply. How much assistance will I receive?If approved for assistance, you will receive no more than $750 per animal. No one is guaranteed $750 – rewards vary based on number of cases pending and available resources. If the estimate for treatment exceeds HHF’s award, it is your responsibility to apply for and secure additional funding BEFORE HHF funding will be released to the service provider; veterinarian, training facility, boarding facility, etc. We DO NOT release funds directly to you. How long do I have to schedule a procedure?If approved for funding for veterinary assistance, the procedure must begin within 21 days of approval. We cannot and do not hold funding as we receive applications and inquiries on a daily basis. Can I get help with a stray animal?
If you have found a stray and know that you cannot afford care, please take that animal to a reputable animal shelter or rescue. These facilities have the resources to provide care and to re-home adoptable animals. Please note: If you have found an ill or injured stray and decide to keep it knowing you can’t provide care, that may be considered animal abuse and you may be subject to fines by animal control for not seeking help for the animal. |
Am I guaranteed assistance if I qualify?Unfortunately, no. While we wish we could help everyone, we receive far more requests for help than funding. Even if you apply for help we recommend checking our pet resources directory for additional options and programs. Will you help pay for a diagnosis?Yes. The maximum award can be used for diagnosis or treatment. What if my pet has never been to the vet?If you have not provided your animal with routine veterinary care in more than 24 months, we will not consider your application. Animals require care in order to remain healthy. If one human year equals roughly 7 dog/cat years, then missing check-ups for even one year is the equivalent of you not seeing a doctor or dentist for seven years. By the time an animal shows obvious symptoms of distress or pain, it may already be too late. Do I need to be a Colorado resident?Yes. We are only accepting applications from Colorado residents at this time. How do I apply?If you qualify for assistance, please begin the application process here. |