New Lend-a-Paw Program Provides a Financial Safety Net for Chicago Pet Owners

It’s not pet insurance, but if you happen to live in Chicago (or Cook County) this might work out even better. And certainly it’s an option to economic euthanasia. I speak HERE on my WGN Radio Steve Dale’s Pet World radio show to Chris McAuliffe, head of business development for Chicago Municipal Credit Union Lend-a-Paw Program. 

Though a relative bargain compared to human medicine, if the cost is $5,000 and you don’t have $5,000 – now what. Economic euthanasia tragically happen daily, where pets are euthanized because people just don’t have the money for treatment. Pet insurance can be an answer, but that cost goes up as pets age and not everyone can afford it, particularly since most people with a pet have more than a single pet. And, of course, pet insurance may not cover everything (depending on your policy, for example, without a cancer rider some company’s don’t cover chemotherapy).

McAuliffe explains how the new Lend-a-Paw program might provide an effective financial safety net. There is interest to be paid on the loans which may begin at 8.25 percent, but it’s FAR less interest than your own credit card, which may be twice as much or more. And you don’t have to deal with maxing out the credit card either. I like this because, the Lend-a-Paw program might demolish the financial obstacle of getting a pet.

You can apply now, before you need the Lend-a-Paw program by calling 312-236-2326 or online HERE.  Or contact this phone number to get pre-approved for no charge (except for $25 to establish a savings account with the credit union).  Cook County residents have access, or a family member of the credit union member and all regular Metra riders. So, this program is local to the Chicago area. If you live in Maine or Utah, this option unfortunately just isn’t available.

Pet Winder Safety

I talk about winter safety, including which dogs benefit most or even need a coat or a sweater. I also talk about how too often dogs do fall through thin ice in Lake Michigan or retention ponds.

I answer your email questions, about dogs who develop a taste for “poopscicles” and a cat who loves to jump up on counters.

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I also discuss a recent Cornell study about the advantages of keeping cats indoors only regarding parasite transmission.