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Who We Help

Together, we change lives

Who Do We Help?

Sometimes an animal's owner can experience unexpected job loss making it difficult for them to afford necessities like pet food for their pets. This happens a lot in low-income communities. It’s not uncommon for owners to attempt to surrender their pets simply because due to hard times, they're unable to feed them. If any of these animals were to be surrendered to a kill shelter, then it's possible that they may one day be euthanized due to an animal shelter's lack of resources.

But think about it - did these pets really need to be surrendered to the care of an animal shelter or animal rescue? No right? After all, they already had a home. They just needed food temporarily until their owners could afford to begin purchasing it again. In these instances, the service we provide would keep these animals in their homes and out of care. In the case of an animal being surrendered to a kill shelter, we literally can save lives! 


Pet owners who cannot afford medical care for their sick or injured pet, and who fall into one of the categories below, should  contact us about the availability of Sassy Foundation funding:


•Seniors receiving the Federal Guaranteed Income Supplement (GIS).

•Disabled individuals receiving the Ontario Disability Support Payment (ODSP) or the Canada Pension Plan Disability Payment (CPP Disability).

•Individuals receiving assistance through the Alberta Works Program.

•Persons with an annual household income of less than $25,000.

•Supportive housing for seniors, retirement homes or long-term care facilities with live-in pets.


How Does It Work?

Applications for funding  should be made by pet owner. If you are an Alberta resident and eligible pet owner, then please contact  us  for more details.


Why We Exist

Over 100,000 people in Edmonton are living in poverty and receiving social services. Some of these individuals have companion animals – most of these animals have never received veterinary care. SMPF was developed to fill this need, ensuring all individuals have access to veterinary care

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Who Makes It Possible?

The Sassy Memorial Pet Foundation runs entirely on the generosity of donors and volunteers. Donations of supplies, monetary, and time are always needed and greatly appreciated.


Our position statement on diversity:

The Sassy Memorial Pet Foundation is committed to the principles of diversity and rejects discrimination or harassment based on grounds such as race, colour, ancestry, ethnic origin, place of origin, age, creed, religion, sex, gender identity, sexual orientation, family status, marital status, or disability. Every human being deserves to be treated with dignity and respect. The foundation will strive to ensure equitable treatment and elimination of discrimination in all its forms at all organizational levels and throughout all foundation programs.


Stronger together

Sharing our lives with an animal helps us treat stress, depression, high blood pressure, and increases social interaction and physical activity. The simple act of petting an animal has been shown to lower your heart rate and increase a sense of well-being.

Looking after our pets also contributes to our sense of purpose. For many who are elderly or have a disability, or who are suffering from temporary financial hardship, this is critical to their well-being.

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Dog and Cat

Keeping Pets Healthy Keeps People Healthy Too!

Studies have shown that the bond between people and their pets can increase fitness, lower stress, and bring happiness to their owners. 



Dog and Cat

Coconut and Coconut Oil

When ingested in small amounts, coconut and coconut-based products are not likely to cause serious harm to your pet. 



Cat

Spending time with your pet can be relaxing, encouraging the release of endorphins, which are brain chemicals that help us de-stress and feel good. And petting a beloved animal can even help lower your blood pressure.



Dog and donuts

Yeast dough can rise and cause gas to accumulate in your pet’s digestive system. This can be painful and can cause the stomach to bloat, and potentially twist, becoming a life threatening emergency. The yeast produce ethanol as a by-product and a dog ingesting raw bread dough can become drunk.



Dog drinking water

Boost your vitality. You can overcome many of the physical challenges associated with aging by taking good care of yourself. Dogs, cats, and other pets encourage playfulness, laughter, and exercise, which can help boost your immune system and increase your energy.



Dog and human giving high five

Adding structure and routine to your day. Many pets, especially dogs, require a regular feeding and exercise schedule. Having a consistent routine keeps an animal balanced and calm—and it can work for you, too. No matter your mood—depressed, anxious, or stressed—one plaintive look from your pet and you’ll have to get out of bed to feed, exercise, and care for them.



© 2022 Sassy Memorial Pet Foundation

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