PetSafetyNetTM, the collaborative program co-founded by PetSure, VetPartners and VetChat, has passed $1 million in vet care funded since its launch in October 2024, helping nearly 2000 pets and their families across selected locations in New South Wales, Victoria and the entire state of Tasmania.
The milestone, reached in under two years, marks a significant proof point for a program designed to tackle one of the most overlooked challenges in Australian pet ownership: the growing number of people who cannot access urgent veterinary care for their pets.
PetSafetyNet addresses multiple barriers to care, including financial hardship, physical mobility, transport limitations and mental health challenges.
The program begins with a free 24/7 veterinary telehealth consultation through VetChat, providing expert guidance around the clock so no pet carer has to feel alone when their pet is unwell. In many cases, subsidised in-clinic care may be available through a network of participating vet clinics.
Of the nearly 2000 pets that received care, many were facing economic euthanasia, which is the decision to end a pet’s life due to financial constraints rather than medical necessity, before PetSafetyNet stepped in.
“In less than two years, PetSafetyNet has helped close to 2000 pets access over $1 million in veterinary care, proving what’s possible when communities come together to support people and their pets,” said Dr Simone Maher, chief veterinary officer at PetSure and program director of PetSafetyNet.
“This milestone belongs to our veterinary partners, community organisations and the many people behind the scenes who help turn compassion into action every day.”
The program is funded through a $1 contribution from every GapOnly® claim processed by PetSure, and partner clinics provide services at a discounted rate. This innovative funding model distributes the financial responsibility across multiple collaborators.
PetSafetyNetTM was co-designed by VetPartners, one of Australia’s largest networks of veterinary clinics.
Pet owners can check eligibility in two minutes at petsafetynet.com.au.
