SAVANNAH, Ga. () — Seven out of ten households have pets, but not all of them can afford to keep them healthy. On Savannah’s west side, basic veterinary care has been out of reach for many families. But now, a $100,000 grant for a local pet rescue could bring much-needed help.

Earlier this year, Renegade Paws employees walked around the neighborhoods in Savannah. Their goal was to see if they could walk to a location that had pet supplies or a veterinarian. They were greeted with no luck in a certain zip code on the west side of the city.

More than half of U.S. pet owners have skipped vet visits because of cost or access. Now, Renegade Paws is able to step up after being selected as one of just 10 groups nationwide to be awarded a special grant from PetSmart Charities to expand pet care for their communities.

The $100,000 grant is aimed specifically at the 31415 zip code. The animal rescue organization discovered that this region has long lacked access to veterinary clinics or pet supply stores.

The first part of the grant is focused on surveys, focus groups, and community events to understand what residents actually need before taking further action. One issue the group hopes to tackle is access. With many residents relying on public transportation, the majority of buses don’t allow pets on board, so simply getting to a vet can be a serious challenge.

The goal is to create solutions with the community, transportation being one of those issues. Also, on the list of possibilities are pop-up clinics and mobile vet services.

“We were very excited and humbled. But more importantly, we were thrilled that an organization like PetSmart Charities recognized Savannah. We’re not the biggest city, and the fact that we hit their radar and that they were willing to give money to help our community… we were beyond thrilled,” said Sharon Shatto, the Grants and Programs Development Manager for Renegade Paws.

The first phase of the grant runs through the end of this year. Leadership says they have good hopes of securing continued support to build a more permanent solution. For them, that solution would mean reducing the number of pets being surrendered because families can’t access basic care.

Along that line of reducing pets being surrendered, Renegade Paws says that the goal is fueled by Georgia being in the top five for euthanasia rates. The support from PetSmart could be lifesaving for both pets and their owners.

Renegade Paws currently cares for over 600 animals – most in foster homes – and says this funding is a game-changer. They’re inviting the community to join the involvement as the project grows. For those seeking pet help or to learn more on participating in surveys, you can contact Renegade Paws Rescue by emailing rebbicca@renegadepawsrescue.org or calling 843-929-8736.