PetSmart Charities has announced a five-year, $100 million commitment to increase access to veterinary care for pets.

According to the organization, more than 70 percent of United States homes include pets, yet 50 million pets in the U.S. lack basic veterinary care, and it would cost more than $20 billion annually to bridge the gap at standard veterinary prices. In addition to affordability, barriers to veterinary care access include a shortage of veterinarians, veterinary deserts and cultural inclusion, and economic and regulatory challenges.

As part of the commitment, the organization aims to take a multifaceted approach to improving access, including finding solutions across the veterinary care system; supporting innovative methods such as telehealth services and delayed payment models; partnering with universities and thought leaders to create innovative, cost-effective ways to deliver care; awarding scholarships to veterinary students pursuing community-based practices; expanding access to lower-cost veterinary care through nonprofit clinics; and developing community-based models.

“The challenges facing the veterinary care system are vast and varied and no single organization can solve them alone,” said PetSmart Charities president Aimee Gilbreath. “Through PetSmart Charities’ commitment, we plan to invest further in our partners and build new alliances to innovate solutions across the entire system—while also funding long-term solutions already in place such as low-cost vet clinics and veterinary student scholarships. We’re confident this approach will produce sustainable change within the veterinary care industry. Our best friends deserve access to adequate health care like any family members.”

(Photo credit: Getty Images/Nataba)