Funding Criteria

Note:  In February 2026, the Board approved revised wording for the funding criteria below to simplify and clarify the guidelines. This revision is effective immediately. The purpose and eligibility requirements remain the same.

KSRF helps cover medical costs only for purebred Keeshonden in foster care. We are not a rescue group—we provide financial support to independent rescuers or rescue organizations.

All funding decisions are made exclusively by our Board.

Eligibility Rules

- Only purebred Keeshonden (breed verified by photos, vet confirmation, or rescuer).

- The dog must be in foster care (as determined by KSRF).

- Requests must be submitted within 30 days of the invoice date. 

- No double funding from multiple sources for the same expense.

- Maximum $2,000 per dog lifetime cap.

- All communication must be via email for clear documentation and fair processing of requests.

- Photos submitted with requests may be used for fundraising.

What We Fund (By Category)

We prioritize emergencies and large-scale rescues. Always seek veterinary discounts whenever possible—the more we save, the more we can help the next Keeshond in need!

Funding levels vary based on available resources, priority, and Board review.

1. Large-Scale Rescues (e.g., puppy mills, kennel closures, multiple dogs)

- Covered expenses: Initial exams, emergency care, spay/neuter, vaccinations, heartworm treatment, preventives.

- Acquisition fees: Only if pre-funded by donations.

- Special requirements: Pre-coordinate with us, microchip all dogs, use adoption contracts, and require a minimum $150 donation back to KSRF per dog at adoption.

2. Emergency/Urgent Care

- Coverage: Up to 100% for life-threatening issues (e.g., trauma, serious illness, heartworm treatment).

- Notification: ASAP for emergencies; in advance (with estimate and prognosis) for urgent cases.

- We may pay vets directly in some situations.

3. Spay/Neuter

- Covered: Surgery, anesthesia, pain meds, required pre-testing.

- Use low-cost clinics and discounts when available—we may cover full or partial costs.

4. Elective Procedures (to improve quality of life or adoptability)

- Examples: Dental work (medically necessary), orthopedic repairs, diagnostics.

- Pre-approval required; often partial funding (50% or less, depending on resources).

5. Routine Care (primarily for dogs in long-term or permanent foster care)

- Exams, meds, basic tests—considered case-by-case; please contact us first to discuss.

What We Do NOT Fund

Examples include (but are not limited to):

- Non-medical costs (food, transport, grooming, boarding, equipment).

- Mixed breeds or owned pets.

- Routine basics many rescuers cover (e.g., vaccinations, flea prevention, microchips).

- Alternative therapies (acupuncture, chiropractic, etc.).

- Shelter pull fees (except in coordinated large-scale rescues).

How to Apply

- Use our online Funding Request Form on the website (available at Funding Criteria or via the "Apply for Funding" / "Submit Request" section below) to submit your case. The form allows you to upload estimates (for pre-approval on non-emergencies), itemized invoices (for reimbursement), clear photos of the dog (for breed verification and potential fundraising), and other supporting details.

- Email us in advance when possible (especially for large rescues, electives, or routine care) to discuss the case—include a brief overview or reference your form submission.

- For reimbursement: Submit itemized invoices and any additional documentation promptly (within 30 days of the invoice date).

- We may pay veterinarians directly in some cases (e.g., emergencies or urgent needs).

- Questions? We're happy to clarify via email—feel free to reach out before submitting.

Funding depends on available resources and is never guaranteed—criteria are subject to change without notice.

For full details visit www.ksrf.org or to access the Funding Request Form click here or navigate to the the funding request button below.

[revision (2/2026)]