A Critical Care Program for Pets
At Vital Paws, we believe no pet should be separated from their family due to financial hardship. This initiative, formed through the partnership of Koda’s Gift of Pawsitivity and Effingham Animal Rescue Sanctuary (EARS), is dedicated to providing financial assistance for emergency veterinary care. By offering support when it’s needed most, we help ensure that pets receive the medical attention they deserve—while staying in the loving homes where they belong.
Who We Help…
Keeping pets safe, healthy, and where they belong—at home.

Pet Owners
Families facing unexpected vet bills
(Emergency Care, Urgent Surgeries, etc.)

Shelter Animals
Animals needing critical medical treatment (Heartworm Treatment, Urgent Surgeries, etc.)

Foster Pets
Receiving medical support to stay healthy while waiting for their forever homes.
How Funding Works…
At Vital Paws, we ensure that financial assistance is used responsibly and effectively to help pets in need. Here’s how our funding process works:
Vet-Direct Payments
Funds go directly to veterinary offices for approved medical treatments—never to individuals.
Transparent & Secure
To prevent misuse, we only issue payments to licensed veterinary clinics for necessary care.
Needs-Based Assistance
Each request is reviewed based on urgency, financial need, and available funds to help as many pets as possible.
How You Can Help…
Every act of kindness keeps pets where they belong—at home.