Derek and Ashlyn and Angel, the chihuahua
The Pet Cottage, a nonprofit dedicated to providing lifelong guardianship for pets whose humans can no longer care for them, is proud to announce the award of a $50,000 grant from the Cathleen McFarlane Foundation. This vital funding will directly support veterinary care and programmatic services for pets whose humans have passed away, become disabled, or been deployed—ensuring every animal has a forever home and loving care for life.
The grant will be allocated as follows:
• $33,000 for veterinary expenses, including preventive exams, emergency surgeries, medications for chronic conditions, and specialized senior pet care
• $17,000 for programmatic needs, such as behavioral training, senior grooming, food, orthopedic beds, and wee-wee pads
“We are deeply grateful to the Cathleen McFarlane Foundation for investing in the wellbeing of the pets who need us most,” said Wendy Derhak, founder and executive director of The Pet Cottage. “This grant gives us the power to say ‘yes’ when a pet is at risk and a family doesn’t know where to turn. It helps us honor the love these animals have given—and provide comfort, stability, and safety in their next chapter.”
The Pet Cottage has already incurred over $30,000 in veterinary costs this fiscal year, with projections exceeding $60,000 by year-end. As more senior and medically complex pets enter the program, the need for skilled care and comprehensive support continues to grow. This grant helps close a crucial funding gap and ensures no pet goes without care due to cost.
The program’s holistic approach includes not only emergency interventions but also thoughtful transitions into Forever Guardian homes. The additional funding for behavioral assessments and specialized training reflects The Pet Cottage’s commitment to setting both pets and their new guardians up for success.
This partnership with the Cathleen McFarlane Foundation reflects a shared belief in dignity, compassion, and the enduring bond between people and their pets—even when life changes unexpectedly.
To learn more about The Pet Cottage or to support their mission, visit http://www.thepetcottage.org.
Nonnie, Forever Guardian to Fiona, the shih tzu
Derek and Ashlyn and Angel, the chihuahua
Ronnie and Lisa, Forever Guardians to Lola Grace, the schnauzer
Thor and Dr. Vinoski, our Community Partner
Tom and Ruth, Forever Guardians to Nora, the corgi
