Subsidized Pet Care Program
The Calgary MFRC’s Subsidized Pet Care Program supports military families during deployments and other Canadian Armed Forces (CAF)-related absences by helping ease the responsibilities and costs associated with caring for their pets.
Eligibility:
Eligibility for the program is open to Reservist and Regular Force CAF members who are away for deployment-related work, including:
- Courses
- Training
- Tasking
- Exercises
- Overseas Deployments
Coverage Details:
Through this program, eligible CAF members will receive:
- 50% off the standard daily boarding rate at Springbank Pet Resort
- An additional 50% reimbursement of the discounted rate from the Calgary MFRC
Families can receive up to $500 per fiscal year (April 1 - March 31)
Eligible pets include cats, dogs, and small caged animals such as rabbits and guinea pigs.
Limitations:
- No snakes or horses are accepted for care
- This subsidy is not intended for routine pet care, such as daycare while the non-deployed owner is at work or school.
How to Access the Subsidy:
Process:
- Consultation: Pet boarding eligibility consultation with Calgary MFRC staff is required before each deployment.
- Documentation: Provide a copy of the deployment authority message, Route Letter, and/or Claim.
- Approval: Approval is given through the Deployment Support and Veteran Family Program Coordinator.
- Reimbursement: Submit pet care records, receipts, or invoices for approval and reimbursement.
- Authorized Provider: Once written approval is received, families can arrange care with the authorized provider. Families must not contact Springbank Pet Resort prior to approval; all arrangements must go through Calgary MFRC.
- Timeline: Families are encouraged to initiate the application process at least two weeks before the CAF member’s departure.
Emergency Cases: For urgent or unexpected deployments, expedited approvals can be arranged. Contact the Calgary MFRC as soon as possible for assistance.
Additional Support:
Families accessing the Subsidized Pet Care Program are also encouraged to explore the Calgary MFRC’s other deployment supports, including family events, workshops, and counselling services designed to help families manage stress, stay connected, and navigate deployment.
