The Banfield Foundation's Disaster Relief Grant is designed to support nonprofit animal welfare organizations and government animal service agencies that are responding to unanticipated disasters or emergencies. These grants provide critical, immediate assistance for pets and pet-related services during natural or other sudden crises, prioritizing communities that have recently experienced significant impacts. The Foundation encourages preparedness but focuses its limited funding on direct relief efforts during the grant year.

Eligible applicants must be either 501(c)(3) nonprofit organizations or government agencies such as municipal or county animal control entities. These organizations must have an animal welfare mission or an official partnership with one and must be either directly impacted by a recent disaster or supporting efforts in an affected area. The grant can be used for a wide range of emergency-related expenses, including veterinary care, medical supplies, temporary shelter or boarding, food and supplies, transportation, cleaning materials, overtime salaries, and other costs directly related to rescuing and housing pets.

Grants of up to $10,000 may be requested, and applicants may apply for reimbursement for eligible expenses incurred within three months after a disaster. However, funding is not available for COVID-19-related needs, hoarding or abuse cases, feral populations, sanctuary-only programs, equine/livestock/wildlife services, or organizations solely dedicated to non-companion animal populations.

Applicants must complete a comprehensive application that includes a summary of the disaster, number of pets to be helped, geographic reach, and a detailed narrative of how the grant will be used. A budget, IRS determination letter (or Letter 4076C for government entities), and a high-resolution photo representing the organization or project are required attachments. Optional materials such as letters of recommendation and program brochures may be included to strengthen the application.

Applications must be submitted online. Organizations experiencing technological barriers to submission may contact the foundation directly at grants@banfieldfoundation.org for support.