From The Care Fund to PetsForward

PetsForward began with a simple but powerful belief: no pet should be denied life-saving medical care because their family cannot afford it.


2023 Care Fund

When the Veterinary Referral Center of Central Oregon opened their doors to provide advanced veterinary care options to Central Oregon, they were faced with the reality that not all pet-parents could afford the quality of care that was be necessary for their pets to thrive. Since then, healthcare prices have continued to rise and economic euthanasia has become more prevalent throughout the veterinary industry. The VRCCO team responded to this problem by working with the Veterinary Care Foundation to create philanthropic fund initiatives.

The Care Fund was created to provide emergency financial assistance for pets in crisis, and quickly grew into a lifeline for families facing heartbreaking choices. Over the years, the Care Fund made it possible for countless animals to receive treatments that gave them not only more time, but a second chance at life.

2024 - 2025

As the fund grew, so did our vision.
The challenges facing pets and their families extend beyond emergency care, they also include access to advanced treatments, innovations in medicine, and the resources veterinarians need to provide the best possible outcomes. To meet this larger need, the VRCCO Care Fund evolved into PetsForward.

Stepping Forward for Pets

PetsForward continues the heart of the Care Fund by ensuring pets in financial need get the urgent care they deserve, while also taking bold steps to invest in the future of veterinary medicine. Through research, advanced equipment, and innovation, we are helping to shape a brighter future where every animal has the chance to thrive.

Board of Directors

PRESIDENT
Jennifer Bentley
DVM, DACVD

VICE PRESIDENT
Rick Plants

TREASURER
Linda Spencer

SECRETARY
Bridget O'Connor
DVM, MBA, CVA

BOARD MEMBER
Jeremy Green

Learn more

Thank you to our Donors and Community

Your continued support helps PetsForward ensure that animals in financial need receive advanced medical care, and brings us closer to creating a healthier future for pets everywhere.

Help us take a step towards the future with PetsForward.

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