🛑 Stop Vets From Using Pets as Collateral for Payment

Pets are family — not property to be held hostage.

Every year, countless pet owners face a heartbreaking reality: when they can’t afford a vet bill, their beloved animal can be taken from them, rehomed, or worse — euthanized. This is because, in many places, veterinary clinics are legally allowed to use pets as collateral for unpaid bills.

We’re calling on lawmakers and veterinary licensing boards to make this practice illegal.

No one should have to lose their pet because they hit hard times. Imagine being forced to surrender your cat or dog simply because you needed emergency care but couldn’t pay in full. For many, this turns a moment of desperation into a lifetime of grief.

 

We demand that:

Veterinary clinics be prohibited from keeping or rehoming pets as a form of payment.

Laws be passed that recognize pets as living beings, not property to be seized.

Compassionate alternatives such as payment plans and nonprofit assistance be prioritized over pet loss.

 

This is a justice issue. It’s an animal welfare issue. And it’s a human rights issue for struggling families and individuals.

 NO ONE should lose their best friend over a vet bill.

 

Sign now to help us push for legislative change that protects both pets and the people who love them.

Pet owners and animal lovers everywhere — let’s make this right.

 

✍️ SIGN + SHARE if you agree: Pets are family, not collateral.