20 Free or Low-Cost CT Scan Services for Dogs Near Me

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PetMD · AVMA · AVMF/Stanton Foundation · FACE Foundation · RedRover · Verified U.S. Data

The independently verified guide to every free, reduced-cost, and affordable veterinary CT scan option in the U.S. — what a dog CT scan costs, where to find the lowest prices, which programs offer financial help, and the exact questions to ask before scheduling.

🔬 10 Key Things to Know About Dog CT Scan Costs

A CT (computed tomography) scan is one of the most powerful diagnostic tools in veterinary medicine — creating detailed, three-dimensional cross-sectional images of your dog’s bones, organs, nasal passages, chest, and soft tissues that simple X-rays simply cannot provide. The challenge for most pet owners: a dog CT scan in the U.S. typically costs between $1,500 and $3,500 at a specialty hospital, with anesthesia, pre-scan bloodwork, and radiologist interpretation fees often added on top. But the national price range is far wider than most owners realize — veterinary teaching hospitals, mobile imaging units, and carefully selected general practices can bring that cost down to $800–$1,500, and a small but growing network of clinical trials, nonprofit grants, and financial assistance programs can reduce it further still. This guide covers every option currently available to U.S. pet owners, verified from primary sources as of April 2026.

1
How much does a CT scan cost for a dog? The national range is $800–$3,500+, depending on facility type, dog size, and scan complexity. General vet practices with in-house CT: $1,500–$2,000. Veterinary teaching hospitals: $1,500–$2,500. Mobile imaging units: $1,000–$2,000. Specialty hospitals: $2,000–$3,500+. These figures typically include anesthesia, pre-scan monitoring, and radiologist interpretation, but always ask which fees are bundled.
The total cost of a dog CT scan is not just the scan itself. Budget separately for pre-scan bloodwork ($80–$150 required before anesthesia), the anesthesia itself ($100–$400 depending on your dog’s weight), contrast dye if recommended by your vet (adds $100–$200 for better soft tissue visibility), and radiologist interpretation ($150–$500 if billed separately from the scan fee). The most cost-effective strategy: ask every provider upfront whether their quote is a flat-rate all-inclusive package or whether anesthesia and interpretation are billed separately. A flat-rate package at $1,800 total is often cheaper than a scan quoted at $1,400 that bills anesthesia and interpretation separately. Mobile imaging units that travel to your regular vet’s clinic often offer competitive all-inclusive pricing in the $900–$1,500 range.
2
What is the lowest price of a CT scan for a dog? The lowest legitimate prices for dog CT scans come from three sources: (1) Veterinary teaching hospitals — $1,500–$2,500, often 30–50% below private specialist rates; (2) Mobile/standalone veterinary imaging centers — $900–$1,500 for all-inclusive packages; (3) University clinical trial programs — potentially free or significantly reduced if your dog qualifies for an active research study. Some regions with high mobile CT adoption (Florida, parts of Texas, and the Southeast) report scan packages as low as $800–$1,000.
BestiePaws’ 2025 regional analysis found that mobile imaging units and university-private partnerships are driving prices down significantly in areas like Tampa, FL; Orlando; Atlanta; and Phoenix, where regional CT-sharing cooperatives share equipment costs across multiple clinics. The key insight: CT scanner equipment costs $250,000–$1,000,000+, and a facility’s pricing reflects how much of that machine cost needs to be recovered per scan. Mobile units spread that fixed cost across more locations; teaching hospitals are partially subsidized by educational funding. Both approaches pass savings to pet owners. Always search “[your state] veterinary school CT scan” and “[your city] mobile veterinary CT” before accepting a specialty hospital quote.
3
Are free or low-cost CT scans for dogs actually available? Fully free CT scans are rare but do exist through two channels: (1) Active university clinical trials — if your dog’s condition matches an ongoing research study, imaging is often provided at no cost to the owner; search the AVMA’s veterinary clinical trial database or ask your veterinary school directly; (2) Financial assistance grants through FACE Foundation, Frankie’s Friends, Bow Wow Buddies (up to $2,500 for dogs), and Brown Dog Foundation can fund CT scans as part of a larger diagnosis-and-treatment grant. Truly $0-cost scans are uncommon, but grants that cover the majority of the expense are more accessible than most owners realize.
The AVMF (American Veterinary Medical Foundation) and the Stanton Foundation have an active 2026 grant specifically funding canine clinical research — up to $150,000 per study — explicitly aimed at developing lower-cost diagnostic tools and care protocols for dogs from economically diverse families. When those studies enroll participants, they often require imaging (including CT) at no cost to the owner. Check morrisanimalfoundation.org (Clinical Trials tab) and your nearest veterinary teaching hospital’s clinical trials page regularly. The Johns Hopkins Center for Image Guided Animal Therapy (Baltimore, MD) has also run free clinical trials offering advanced imaging for dogs with certain tumor types — contact them or paws4acure.org (they maintain pilot site relationships).
4
How much is a CT scan for a dog without insurance? Without pet insurance, expect to pay the full out-of-pocket cost: $800–$3,500+ depending on the facility. At a teaching hospital, $1,500–$2,500 all-in is realistic. At a specialty emergency hospital in a major city, $2,500–$3,500+ is common. Without insurance, the most important financial tools are: (1) Scratchpay — apply in minutes, no credit score impact, structured payment plans from $200–$10,000; (2) CareCredit — 0% promotional financing if paid within 6–24 months; (3) Frankie’s Friends — grants up to $2,000 for emergency/specialty cases. Most facilities will work with a combination of these options.
The honest math without insurance: a dog with a suspected nasal tumor, inner ear mass, or spinal issue that requires CT for surgical planning will typically need the scan completed before surgery. Most facilities require payment or financing approval before the procedure. This means having your CareCredit or Scratchpay application approved before you arrive at the imaging appointment is critical — not something to arrange at the front desk in a stressful moment. Apply at carecredit.com today and keep it in your wallet. If a large bill is already owed, Scratchpay can be applied for online at scratchpay.com for the specific amount — it is not a revolving credit card and approval does not affect your credit score when checking eligibility.
5
How much is a CT scan for a dog with insurance? With pet insurance, your out-of-pocket cost after the deductible is typically 10–30% of the total bill. Most policies reimburse 70–90% of eligible expenses. On a $2,000 scan: with a $200 deductible and 80% reimbursement, you’d pay $560 out-of-pocket ($200 deductible + 20% of the remaining $1,800). Policies that cover diagnostic imaging require the condition to be a new, non-pre-existing illness or injury. Trupanion, Healthy Paws, Pets Best, and Lemonade are among the insurers most commonly cited for covering CT and MRI scans when medically necessary.
Critical caveat: all major pet insurance plans use a reimbursement model — you pay the facility upfront and submit a claim for reimbursement, typically processed in 5–30 business days. This means you still need a way to pay the full bill on the day of the procedure, even if you’ll be reimbursed. Keep CareCredit available even if you have insurance, to bridge the gap between paying the vet and receiving your reimbursement check. Also important: the CT scan must have been recommended for a new condition diagnosed after your policy’s waiting period. If your dog had symptoms before you enrolled, the imaging may be classified as a pre-existing condition exclusion. Always call your insurer before scheduling a CT scan to confirm coverage and request a pre-authorization reference number to speed up reimbursement.
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Is a CT scan worth it for a dog? For the right clinical situation, yes — veterinary consensus is clear. CT scans are particularly valuable for: nasal/sinus disease, inner ear and skull base conditions, chest and lung pathology, spinal and vertebral disc assessment (especially pre-surgery), complex fractures and orthopedic surgery planning, tumor staging and surgical margins, abdominal organ abnormalities, and vascular shunts. Standard X-rays produce flat, two-dimensional images that can overlap and obscure internal structures. CT produces true three-dimensional cross-sections — often changing the diagnosis entirely and allowing surgeons to plan with precision that reduces operating time and complications.
PetMD notes that CT scans are becoming increasingly recommended by veterinarians as the standard of care for complex cases where X-rays are insufficient — particularly for nasal cavity disease, inner ear growths, and lung metastasis staging. The practical question is not whether a CT is medically valuable (it almost always is in the cases it’s recommended for), but whether the cost of the scan is proportionate to the treatment plan that would follow. If your dog has a condition with a favorable prognosis and a clear treatment path that depends on CT results, the scan is almost always worth it. If your dog’s condition is terminal or treatment is being declined regardless of findings, the calculus changes. Always ask your vet: “What specific decision will the CT scan change, and what would we do differently with that information?”
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Is a CT scan cheaper than an MRI for dogs? Yes — consistently. Dog CT scans typically cost $1,500–$3,500; dog MRIs typically cost $2,500–$5,000 or more at specialty centers. CT scans are also faster (10–20 seconds of actual scan time vs. 45–90 minutes for MRI), more widely available at more locations, and better for bone detail and lung assessment. MRI is superior for soft tissue detail — particularly the brain, spinal cord, and intervertebral discs. For surgical planning involving neurological conditions (IVDD, brain masses), an MRI is usually preferred despite the higher cost. For nasal, chest, orthopedic, and abdominal conditions, CT is usually the more appropriate and affordable choice.
Virginia Tech’s Veterinary Teaching Hospital notes that their Canon Aquilion 64-slice CT scanner completes most scans in 10–20 seconds — meaning some patients can be imaged under light sedation rather than full general anesthesia, which can reduce cost by $100–$300. Ask any facility whether your dog’s specific scan can be performed under sedation rather than full anesthesia — this depends on the scan region and the dog’s temperament, but it is a legitimate cost-reduction question. MRI machines, by contrast, require full anesthesia for all patients due to the 45–90 minute scan duration. The shorter CT scan time also reduces anesthesia risk — another reason CT is often preferred as the first advanced imaging choice when either modality would provide useful information.
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Where can I get a CT scan for my dog — what types of facilities offer it? Four types of facilities perform dog CT scans: (1) Specialty veterinary hospitals (BluePearl, VCA specialty, university-affiliated) — highest cost, $2,000–$3,500+, board-certified radiologists on-site, immediate interpretation; (2) Veterinary teaching hospitals — $1,500–$2,500, 30–50% below specialty rates, AVMA-accredited; (3) Mobile veterinary CT units — visit your regular vet’s clinic, $900–$1,500 typical range, board-certified radiologists interpret remotely; (4) General vet practices with in-house CT — $1,500–$2,000, standard equipment, images often sent out for remote interpretation, 24–48 hour results typical.
Mobile veterinary CT units represent the fastest-growing category for access and affordability. Services like Mobile Animal CT (CA/AZ), Mobile Veterinary CT (Michigan), and Mobile Pet Imaging (Florida) bring FDA-certified 8- or 16-slice helical scanners directly to participating veterinary clinics on a scheduled basis. Results from board-certified radiologists are typically available within 24–48 hours, with STAT reads available for urgent cases. The key benefit: your dog stays at your regular vet’s clinic rather than being transported to an unfamiliar specialty hospital — reducing stress for both the dog and owner. To find a mobile CT service in your area, ask your regular vet if they use a mobile imaging partner, or search “[your state] mobile veterinary CT scan.” Mobile services are most common in California, Florida, Texas, the Pacific Northwest, and the Midwest.
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How long does a dog CT scan take? The actual CT scanning time is very fast — 10–60 seconds of active scanning, depending on the area being imaged and the machine’s slice count. However, the total appointment time is 2–4 hours because of required preparation: pre-scan bloodwork (if not already done), induction and monitoring of anesthesia or sedation, the scan itself, and recovery from anesthesia before the dog is discharged. Most dogs go home the same day. Plan for a half-day appointment and arrange transportation home — your dog will be groggy from anesthesia for several hours after discharge.
Pre-scan requirements add time and cost: your vet will typically require bloodwork within 2–4 weeks before the scan to confirm your dog is healthy enough for anesthesia — this costs $80–$150 and must be completed at a separate appointment unless the imaging facility includes it. Most facilities also require a 12-hour fast before anesthesia (no food after midnight the night before). Post-scan: dogs are typically recovered from anesthesia at the imaging facility before discharge. Light sedation cases recover faster (1–2 hours) than full general anesthesia cases (2–4 hours). Radiologist interpretation reports are typically ready within 24–48 hours for standard cases; same-day “wet reads” are available for urgent or critical cases at many specialty centers and mobile services, sometimes for an additional fee.
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Can I get financial help to pay for a dog CT scan? Yes — multiple options exist: (1) Frankie’s Friends (frankiesfriends.org, 888-465-7387) — grants up to $2,000 for emergency and specialty care including diagnostic imaging, for families at or below 250% of the Federal Poverty Level; (2) Bow Wow Buddies Foundation (bowwowbuddies.com) — grants up to $2,500 for dogs with serious conditions requiring diagnostic procedures; (3) FACE Foundation (face4pets.org, 858-450-3223) — California and Hawaii, emergency grants including diagnostic imaging; (4) Scratchpay (scratchpay.com) — per-procedure loans $200–$10,000, no credit score impact when checking eligibility; (5) CareCredit (carecredit.com) — 0% promotional financing, accepted at most specialty and teaching hospitals.
Important note about grant programs and CT scans specifically: some grant programs explicitly exclude diagnostic testing. The Mosby Foundation specifically states it cannot assist with CT scans or X-rays. RedRover Relief (avg $250 grant) is designed for emergency life-threatening cases and may or may not fund standalone diagnostic imaging depending on the case. Frankie’s Friends and Bow Wow Buddies both have track records of funding diagnostic imaging as part of broader emergency or specialty care grants. Brown Dog Foundation (browndogfoundation.org) funds the gap between what an owner can pay and what the total procedure costs — including diagnostics. The most effective approach: apply to Frankie’s Friends and Bow Wow Buddies simultaneously while also applying for Scratchpay or CareCredit financing to cover whatever portion the grants don’t cover. Never wait for one application to be approved before starting the next.

Sources: PetMD petmd.com (CT $1,500–$3,500+; anesthesia required; radiologist interpretation; CT vs. MRI); Vety.com 2026 (teaching hospital $1,500–$2,500; mobile $1,500–$3,000; specialty $2,000–$3,500+; anesthesia $100–$400; bloodwork $80–$150); Pewaukee Veterinary Service Jan 2026 (contrast dye; flat-rate packages; bundled vs. unbundled); BestiePaws bestiepaws.com 2025 (mobile CT $800–$1,000; Tampa model; regional cooperatives; 40–60% cost reduction bundled packages); Virginia Tech VTH vth.vetmed.vt.edu (Canon Aquilion 64-slice; 10–20 sec scan time; sedation vs. anesthesia; 2D/3D multiplanar); AVMF avmf.org (Stanton Foundation 2026 grant up to $150K; canine clinical trials; economically diverse families); FACE Foundation face4pets.org (858-450-3223; 200+ partner hospitals; CA + HI; emergency grants); Frankie’s Friends frankiesfriends.org (888-465-7387; grants up to $2,000; 250% FPL); Bow Wow Buddies bowwowbuddies.com (up to $2,500 dogs; serious conditions; 30 days post-procedure); Morris Animal Foundation morrisanimalfoundation.org (clinical trials database); Scratchpay scratchpay.com ($200–$10,000; no score impact); CareCredit carecredit.com (0% promo; specialty hospitals); Mobile Animal CT mobileanimalct.com (FDA-certified; CA/AZ; 24–48hr reports); Mobile Pet Imaging mobilepetimaging.com (FL; Dr. Armstrong; DACVIM)

📊 Dog CT Scan — Key Cost Numbers at a Glance

💰 National Cost Range

$800–$3,500+

The full national range for a dog CT scan in the U.S. Teaching hospitals and mobile units: $800–$2,000. General vet practices with in-house CT: $1,500–$2,000. Specialty hospitals: $2,000–$3,500+. Urban costs (NY, CA, HI) run 25–40% above national averages.

🎓 Teaching Hospital Savings

30–50% Less

AVMA-accredited veterinary teaching hospitals consistently charge 30–50% below private specialist rates for CT scans — while offering board-certified radiologists, advanced 64-slice scanners, and faculty-supervised care. Every U.S. state has at least one accredited program.

⏱️ Actual Scan Time

10–60 Seconds

The CT scanning itself takes only 10–60 seconds of active imaging per body region. Total appointment time with anesthesia induction and recovery is 2–4 hours. Faster scans mean shorter anesthesia exposure — a medical safety advantage over MRI (which requires 45–90 minutes of anesthesia).

💊 Anesthesia Add-On Cost

$100–$400

Nearly all dogs require anesthesia or heavy sedation to remain motionless during scanning. Anesthesia cost depends on dog weight — larger dogs need more. Some 64-slice CT scanners can complete scans fast enough for light sedation only in certain cases, potentially saving $100–$200.

Sources: Vety.com 2026 (all four cost ranges); Virginia Tech VTH (10–20 sec scan time; sedation possible); AVMA.org (teaching hospital accreditation; 30–50% below private); Pewaukee Vet Service Jan 2026 (anesthesia $100–$400; weight-dependent)

🏆 20 Free or Low-Cost CT Scan Services for Dogs

⚠️ Before You Book — Ask These 4 Questions

(1) Is the quoted price all-inclusive (scan + anesthesia + interpretation), or are fees billed separately? (2) Can my dog’s scan be done under light sedation rather than full anesthesia (saves $100–$200 in some cases)? (3) Do you accept CareCredit or Scratchpay for financing? (4) What is the turnaround time for the radiologist’s report — and is a same-day STAT read available for urgent cases?

1. AVMA-Accredited Veterinary Teaching Hospitals — Best Overall Value

EVERY U.S. STATE · 30–50% BELOW PRIVATE

Every U.S. state has at least one AVMA-accredited veterinary teaching hospital offering CT scans at 30–50% below private specialty center rates. These facilities use the same advanced equipment (64-slice CT scanners at many programs), employ board-certified radiologists on faculty, and provide the same diagnostic quality as a private specialist — with licensed faculty supervising students at every step. Top programs include Cornell University College of Veterinary Medicine (Ithaca, NY), UC Davis School of Veterinary Medicine (Davis, CA), Colorado State University (Fort Collins, CO), Tufts University (North Grafton, MA), Ohio State University (Columbus, OH), University of Florida (Gainesville, FL), Purdue University (West Lafayette, IN), and North Carolina State University (Raleigh, NC). Some programs also run clinical trials where eligible dogs receive imaging at reduced or no cost.

🎓 Every U.S. state has at least one 💰 30–50% below private specialist rates 🔬 64-slice CT · Board-certified radiologists 📋 Clinical trials may offer free imaging 🌐 avma.org (accredited school directory)

2. Cornell University Veterinary Teaching Hospital — Top-Ranked Program

ITHACA, NY · IVY LEAGUE FACULTY · 607-253-3060

Cornell’s Companion Animal Hospital in Ithaca, NY is one of the most well-equipped veterinary teaching hospitals in the country — offering CT, MRI, fluoroscopy, nuclear scintigraphy, and advanced ultrasound guided by board-certified DACVR specialists. Rates are substantially lower than private NYC/Boston/Northeast specialty hospitals. The diagnostic imaging section handles referrals from across New York and New England. Appointment-based for non-emergencies; emergency imaging available through the Companion Animal Hospital’s 24/7 emergency service. Cornell is also a site for active clinical trials funded by the Morris Animal Foundation and AVMF.

📍 Ithaca, NY — Companion Animal Hospital 🔬 CT + MRI + advanced imaging 💰 Below private NY/NE specialty rates 📞 607-253-3060 🌐 vet.cornell.edu

3. UC Davis School of Veterinary Medicine — Best West Coast Teaching Hospital

DAVIS, CA · DACVR ON STAFF · 530-752-1393

UC Davis is routinely ranked among the top three veterinary schools in the world. The William R. Pritchard Veterinary Medical Teaching Hospital offers advanced CT imaging, MRI, and interventional radiology at rates significantly below Southern California and Bay Area specialty centers (which can reach $3,500–$4,500 for CT in high-cost metro areas). Board-certified veterinary radiologists (DACVR) interpret all studies. Davis is also one of the most active veterinary clinical trial sites in the U.S. — check their clinical trials page at vmth.ucdavis.edu for active studies that may include free or subsidized CT imaging.

📍 Davis, CA — VMTH 🔬 CT + MRI + interventional radiology 💰 Far below Bay Area/SoCal specialty rates 📞 530-752-1393 🌐 vmth.ucdavis.edu

4. Colorado State University Veterinary Teaching Hospital — Best for Oncology CT

FORT COLLINS, CO · ONCOLOGY · 970-297-4000

CSU’s James L. Voss Veterinary Teaching Hospital is particularly recognized for its oncology and diagnostic imaging programs. For dogs with suspected cancer requiring CT staging, CSU combines imaging services with one of the top veterinary oncology programs in the country. CT scans are used for pre-surgical tumor mapping, metastasis staging, and treatment response monitoring. Below private Colorado Front Range specialty rates. Active clinical trials through CSU’s Flint Animal Cancer Center (flintanimalcancercenter.org) frequently include free CT imaging for enrolled dogs with specific cancer diagnoses.

📍 Fort Collins, CO — James L. Voss VTH 🎗️ Oncology CT + staging + surgical planning 📋 Clinical trials: flintanimalcancercenter.org 📞 970-297-4000 🌐 vetmedbiosci.colostate.edu

5. Virginia Tech Veterinary Teaching Hospital — Best 64-Slice CT in VA/SE

BLACKSBURG, VA · CANON 64-SLICE · 540-231-4621

Virginia Tech’s Alphin Radiology Center features a Canon Aquilion 64-slice CT scanner with 2D, 3D, and multiplanar reconstruction capabilities — state-of-the-art equipment averaging 10–20 second scan times. The ultra-fast scan time means some patients can be imaged under sedation rather than full general anesthesia, potentially reducing total cost. Images are interpreted by board-certified radiologists with immediate 2D/3D workstation analysis. Serving Virginia, West Virginia, and the greater mid-Atlantic region. CT is most commonly used for nasal cavity, thorax, abdomen, and musculoskeletal conditions.

📍 Blacksburg, VA — Alphin Radiology Center 🔬 Canon 64-slice · 10–20 sec scan time 💊 Sedation (not always full anesthesia) possible 📞 540-231-4621 🌐 vth.vetmed.vt.edu

6. Mobile Animal CT (MACT) — Best Mobile Service CA & AZ

CALIFORNIA + ARIZONA · FDA-CERTIFIED UNITS

Mobile Animal CT (mobileanimalct.com) brings FDA-certified 8- and 16-slice helical CT scanners directly to partner veterinary clinics across California and Arizona — eliminating the need for pet owners to transport their dogs to distant specialty hospitals. Board-certified veterinary radiologists interpret all studies, with detailed reports available within 24–48 hours and same-day STAT reads available for urgent or emergent cases. Your dog stays at your familiar vet’s clinic throughout the procedure. For owners whose regular vet has partnered with MACT, this is often the most affordable and least stressful path to advanced CT imaging. Contact MACT to find participating clinics near you.

📍 California + Arizona · Mobile units 🔬 FDA-certified 8/16-slice helical CT ⚡ STAT same-day reads available 📋 Report within 24–48 hrs standard 🌐 mobileanimalct.com

7. Mobile Pet Imaging — Best Florida Mobile CT Service

MIAMI/BROWARD/FL · DACVIM ON STAFF

Mobile Pet Imaging (mobilepetimaging.com) serves veterinary clinics across Broward, Miami-Dade, and Monroe Counties in South Florida — co-founded by a board-certified internal medicine specialist (DACVIM). High-definition CT scanning and fluoroscopy delivered directly to your vet’s clinic. Veterinarians across South Florida report significantly better pricing and availability compared to specialty practices. For Florida pet owners outside Miami, Florida also has one of the most developed regional CT-sharing cooperative networks in the country — ask your vet if they have a mobile CT partner.

📍 Miami/Broward/FL · Mobile to your vet ⚕️ Co-founded by DACVIM specialist 🔬 CT + fluoroscopy · High-definition 💰 Better pricing than specialty hospitals 🌐 mobilepetimaging.com

8. Mobile Veterinary CT (Michigan) — Best Midwest Mobile CT

MICHIGAN · 3D RECONSTRUCTION · RAPID RESULTS

Mobile Veterinary CT (mvctunit.com) delivers portable CT scan units directly to veterinary clinics throughout Michigan, providing 3D reconstruction capabilities, multiple scanning modes, and board-certified radiologist interpretation. Multiple Michigan veterinarians have publicly praised the service for enabling complex diagnoses not possible with standard X-rays or ultrasound — including cases of deep abscesses, foreign bodies, and structural anomalies. For Midwest pet owners, this type of mobile service is often significantly more affordable than specialty hospital rates in Chicago, Detroit, or Minneapolis. Contact mvctunit.com to find a participating clinic near you.

📍 Michigan · Mobile to partner clinics 🔬 3D reconstruction · Multiple scan modes 💰 Below Detroit/Chicago specialty rates 📋 Board-certified radiologist interpretation 🌐 mvctunit.com

9. Frankie’s Friends — Largest Grants for Emergency Diagnostic Imaging

UP TO $2,000 GRANT · NATIONAL · 888-465-7387

Frankie’s Friends provides financial assistance grants up to $2,000 for family-owned pets requiring life-saving emergency or specialty veterinary care — including diagnostic imaging such as CT scans. Income eligibility: at or below 250% of the Federal Poverty Level (approximately $73,000/year for a family of four in 2026). Applications are submitted by the treating veterinarian and the pet owner together. All payments go directly to the veterinary facility, never to the individual. Frankie’s Friends does not reimburse for care already completed — apply before or during the diagnostic procedure, not after. National program; no geographic restriction.

💰 Grants up to $2,000 · CT + specialty care 📋 Apply BEFORE procedure · Vet submits jointly 👥 Income ~$73K/yr family eligible 📞 888-465-7387 🌐 frankiesfriends.org

10. Bow Wow Buddies Foundation — Up to $2,500 for Dogs with Serious Conditions

DOGS ONLY · UP TO $2,500 · BOWWOWBUDDIES.COM

The Bow Wow Buddies Foundation provides grants up to $2,500 exclusively for dogs requiring urgent medical care for serious conditions — including diagnostic procedures like CT scans when part of a medically necessary workup. A distinguishing feature: Bow Wow Buddies allows applications up to 30 days after a procedure has already been completed, meaning pet owners who paid out-of-pocket for an emergency CT can apply for partial reimbursement retroactively. Applications are reviewed on the 1st and 15th of each month. Not for preventive care, dental work, spay/neuter, or end-of-life care. Financial need required.

💰 Up to $2,500 · Dogs only ✅ Can apply UP TO 30 days AFTER procedure 📅 Reviewed 1st and 15th of each month 📋 Financial need + serious condition required 🌐 bowwowbuddies.com

11. FACE Foundation — Emergency Grants in California & Hawaii

CA + HI · 200+ PARTNER HOSPITALS · 858-450-3223

The Foundation for Animal Care and Education (FACE) operates the Save-A-Life program — a partnership with over 200 veterinary hospitals between San Diego and Oahu (Hawaii) to prevent “economic euthanasia” of pets with treatable conditions. FACE provides financial grants for emergency life-saving veterinary care including diagnostic imaging like CT scans, when a diagnosis and treatment plan with a favorable prognosis is already in place. California residents: 858-450-3223 ext. 1, M–F 9am–5pm PST. Hawaii residents: 808-300-8907 ext. 1, M–F 9am–2pm HST. Online application required for all cases; FACE only responds to immediate life-threatening cases with completed applications.

📍 California + Hawaii · 200+ partner hospitals 💰 Emergency diagnostic imaging grants 📋 Diagnosis + good prognosis required 📞 CA: 858-450-3223 · HI: 808-300-8907 🌐 face4pets.org

12. Morris Animal Foundation Clinical Trials — Free Imaging for Study Participants

NATIONAL · FREE FOR ELIGIBLE DOGS · MORRISANIMALFOUNDATION.ORG

The Morris Animal Foundation funds active clinical trials at universities and veterinary teaching hospitals across the U.S. — many of which include CT imaging provided at no cost to enrolled pet owners in exchange for participation in the research study. Dogs with cancer, neurological conditions, orthopedic disease, and chronic illness are the most common study populations. Strict eligibility criteria apply (specific diagnosis, age range, treatment history). Search current open studies at morrisanimalfoundation.org’s Health Studies section. Also check your nearest veterinary school’s clinical trials page directly — each school runs independent studies not always listed in central databases.

🔬 Free CT for qualifying study participants 📋 Cancer + neuro + ortho studies common 🌐 morrisanimalfoundation.org/health-studies ✅ Strict eligibility criteria — check each study

13. AVMF / Stanton Foundation Canine Research — Free Care via Clinical Enrollment

NATIONAL · UP TO $150K PER STUDY · AVMF.ORG

The American Veterinary Medical Foundation and the Stanton Foundation have an active 2026 grant program funding up to $150,000 per study to develop lower-cost diagnostic protocols for dogs from economically diverse families. When these studies enroll canine participants, owners typically receive all study-related care — including CT imaging — at no charge. The Stanton Foundation’s explicit mission is ensuring dogs from modest-income families receive the best possible health care throughout their lives. Check avmf.org for active funded studies and contact the AVMA’s accredited veterinary schools for locally enrolling trials.

🎓 AVMF + Stanton Foundation 2026 grant 💰 Free care including CT for study participants 🐕 Focus: dogs from modest-income families 🌐 avmf.org

14. CareCredit — 0% Financing for CT Scans at Most Specialty Hospitals

275,000+ PROVIDERS · 0% PROMO · 1-800-677-0718

CareCredit is a healthcare credit card accepted at 275,000+ U.S. healthcare and veterinary providers — including virtually all specialty hospitals, university veterinary teaching hospitals, BluePearl, VCA, and Veterinary Emergency Group locations. Promotional 0% APR periods of 6, 12, 18, or 24 months available (deferred interest — must pay in full before promo period ends to avoid retroactive charges at 26.99% APR). A $2,000 CT scan on a 24-month promo = $84/month with no interest if paid off on time. Apply online in minutes at carecredit.com — have it ready before your appointment.

💳 275,000+ providers incl. all major vet hospitals 💰 0% promo 6–24 months (deferred interest) ✅ Apply before appointment at carecredit.com 📞 1-800-677-0718 🌐 carecredit.com

15. Scratchpay — Best Per-Procedure CT Loan, No Credit Score Impact

$200–$10,000 · SOFT PULL · 855-727-2395

Scratchpay provides per-procedure veterinary financing loans — not credit cards. Apply specifically for the amount needed for the CT scan ($200–$10,000), receive an instant eligibility decision without any hard credit pull (no score impact), and repay in 12–24 monthly installments. APR from 0% to 36% depending on creditworthiness. Plans issued by WebBank (NMLS 1582666). Accepted at 17,000+ registered veterinary clinics. Best use case for CT scans: you know the procedure cost upfront, apply for exactly that amount, and have a clear structured payoff schedule. Text PAY to 855-727-2395 to apply from your phone.

✅ Soft pull only — no score impact to check 💰 $200–$10,000 · 12–24 months 📱 Text PAY to 855-727-2395 0% APR available for eligible borrowers 🌐 scratchpay.com

16. Brown Dog Foundation — Full Gap Coverage for Diagnostics

DOGS + CATS · GAP COVERAGE · BROWNDOGFOUNDATION.ORG

Brown Dog Foundation covers the full funding gap between what a pet owner can pay and what a diagnostic procedure or treatment costs — including CT scans as part of a larger care plan. Their philosophy: they will only commit if they can cover the entire remaining gap, not a partial contribution that leaves an unpaid balance. This makes Brown Dog uniquely useful for CT scans: if a $2,200 scan is needed and you have $600 available, Brown Dog can cover the $1,600 gap in full. Case-by-case review; apply at browndogfoundation.org. Stack applications: apply to Brown Dog, Frankie’s Friends, and Bow Wow Buddies simultaneously.

💰 Full gap coverage — not partial 🐕🐈 Dogs + cats · CT + treatment eligible 🤝 Stack with Frankie’s + Bow Wow Buddies 🌐 browndogfoundation.org

17. Johns Hopkins Center for Image Guided Animal Therapy — Free Clinical Trials (Baltimore, MD)

BALTIMORE, MD · FREE CLINICAL TRIALS · CANCER

The Center for Image Guided Animal Therapy at Johns Hopkins University (Baltimore, MD) has partnered with Kubanda Cryotherapy to offer free clinical trials for dogs and cats with certain tumor types — including canine and feline mammary cancer, lipomas, sarcomas, and other subcutaneous masses. All imaging-guided treatment is provided at no cost to qualifying pet owners. This is one of the few programs in the U.S. where truly free, advanced image-guided therapy (including diagnostic imaging) is available for dogs with specific cancer diagnoses. Contact through paws4acure.org or email kubanda to ask about pilot sites expanding nationally.

📍 Baltimore, MD — Johns Hopkins 🆓 Free clinical trial — image-guided therapy 🎗️ Mammary cancer · sarcomas · lipomas 🔗 Contact: paws4acure.org or kubanda.com

18. Cypress Veterinary Hospital — Most Accessible General Practice CT (TX)

CYPRESS, TX · GENERAL PRACTICE · 281-469-8056

Cypress Veterinary Hospital (Cypress, TX — northwest Houston metro) is a general practice veterinary clinic offering in-house CT scans with board-certified radiologist interpretation — specifically marketed at “an accessible price point, with greater availability than many specialty hospitals in the area.” Scans are performed under general anesthesia by a staff veterinarian with full monitoring and heat support. Finalized radiologist reports delivered after recovery. Accepts referrals from other veterinarians in the Houston area. Also offers fluoroscopy. For Houston-area pet owners seeking CT without driving to a large specialty center, Cypress is a well-documented option at below-specialty pricing.

📍 Cypress (Houston), TX · General practice 💰 Below Houston specialty hospital rates 🔬 CT + fluoroscopy · Board-certified radiologist 📞 281-469-8056 📧 [email protected]

19. Waggle — Best Crowdfunding for CT Bills, Corporate Matching

VET-VERIFIED · CORPORATE MATCHING · FREE TO START

Waggle (waggle.org) is a nonprofit crowdfunding platform specifically for veterinary bills — including diagnostic imaging costs like CT scans. Unlike GoFundMe, Waggle works directly with veterinarians to certify the treatment estimate before publishing your campaign, adding donor credibility that significantly increases contributions. Funds go directly to the vet clinic (never to the owner). Many corporate sponsor partners provide matching grants for active campaigns. Free to set up. Most effective for CT costs in the $800–$2,500 range where partial crowdfunding can close the gap between available financing and the total bill. Combine with Scratchpay or CareCredit for the remainder.

🔍 Vet-verified treatment estimate on campaign 💰 Funds paid directly to vet facility 🤝 Corporate matching partners available 🆓 Free to create a campaign 🌐 waggle.org

20. Cherry & Sunbit — Best Financing for Fair Credit CT Costs

UP TO $35,000 · 90%+ APPROVAL · WITHCHERRY.COM

For CT scan costs above $3,000 (complex scans, specialty centers, or multiple imaging studies), Cherry (withcherry.com) offers veterinary financing up to $35,000 — well beyond Scratchpay’s $10,000 cap. Plans from 3–24 months; no hard credit pull to check eligibility; broader approval criteria than CareCredit for applicants with fair credit. Sunbit (sunbit.com) is an alternative BNPL platform with a reported 90%+ approval rate and 3–72 month plan options — particularly useful for pet owners who have been denied by CareCredit. Both platforms are growing their veterinary network — use their clinic finder tools to locate participating practices near you before scheduling.

💰 Cherry: up to $35,000 · 3–24 months ✅ Sunbit: 90%+ approval rate 🔍 No hard pull to check eligibility 🌐 withcherry.com · sunbit.com

Sources: AVMA avma.org (accredited school directory; 30–50% below private); Cornell vet.cornell.edu (607-253-3060; CT + MRI + 24/7 emergency); UC Davis vmth.ucdavis.edu (530-752-1393; clinical trials; DACVR); Colorado State flintanimalcancercenter.org (970-297-4000; oncology CT; clinical trials); Virginia Tech vth.vetmed.vt.edu (540-231-4621; Canon Aquilion 64-slice; 10–20 sec; sedation option); Mobile Animal CT mobileanimalct.com (FDA-certified; CA/AZ; 24–48hr reports; STAT reads); Mobile Pet Imaging mobilepetimaging.com (FL; DACVIM; Broward/Miami-Dade/Monroe); Mobile Veterinary CT mvctunit.com (Michigan; 3D reconstruction; DACVR); Frankie’s Friends frankiesfriends.org (888-465-7387; up to $2,000; 250% FPL; vet submits jointly; no reimbursement); Bow Wow Buddies bowwowbuddies.com (up to $2,500 dogs; 30 days retroactive; 1st/15th review); FACE Foundation face4pets.org (858-450-3223 CA; 808-300-8907 HI; 200+ hospitals; life-threatening; good prognosis); Morris Animal Foundation morrisanimalfoundation.org (clinical trials; CT for enrolled participants); AVMF avmf.org (Stanton Foundation 2026 $150K grant; economically diverse families); CareCredit carecredit.com (275,000+ providers; 0% promo 6–24 months; 26.99% deferred; 1-800-677-0718); Scratchpay scratchpay.com ($200–$10K; 12–24 months; WebBank NMLS 1582666; text 855-727-2395); Brown Dog Foundation browndogfoundation.org (full gap; dogs + cats); Johns Hopkins/Kubanda paws4acure.org (free clinical trial; Baltimore; mammary/sarcoma/lipoma); Cypress Veterinary Hospital cypressvethospital.com (281-469-8056; Cypress TX; below specialty pricing); Waggle waggle.org (vet-verified; corporate matching; direct to clinic); Cherry withcherry.com (up to $35K; fair credit); Sunbit sunbit.com (90%+ approval; 3–72 months)

❓ Dog CT Scan Questions Answered Plainly

💡 How Much Does a CT Scan Cost for a Dog — What’s Included?

The total cost of a dog CT scan has several components that are sometimes bundled and sometimes billed separately. The scan itself is just one part. A realistic all-in budget by facility type: general vet practice with in-house CT: $1,500–$2,000; mobile veterinary imaging unit: $900–$1,800; veterinary teaching hospital: $1,500–$2,500; specialty hospital: $2,000–$3,500+. Always ask whether the quoted price includes: (1) pre-scan bloodwork ($80–$150); (2) anesthesia induction, monitoring, and recovery ($100–$400); (3) contrast dye if applicable ($100–$200); (4) board-certified radiologist interpretation ($150–$500 if billed separately). A “flat-rate CT package” that bundles all of the above is almost always the most cost-effective option — and the most honest pricing you’ll encounter. Facilities that quote a low base scan fee and then add each component separately often produce a higher final bill than facilities with transparent all-inclusive pricing.

💡 Where Can I Get a CT Scan for My Dog — What’s the Cheapest Option?

The three lowest-cost options for dog CT scans in the U.S. are: (1) Veterinary teaching hospitals — 30–50% below private specialty rates, excellent diagnostic quality, available in every state (search avma.org for the full directory). (2) Mobile veterinary CT services — FDA-certified scanners brought to your regular vet’s clinic, typically $900–$1,500 all-in; find services in CA, AZ, FL, MI, and expanding nationally by searching “[your state] mobile veterinary CT.” (3) Active clinical trials at veterinary schools — Morris Animal Foundation (morrisanimalfoundation.org) and individual university programs often include free CT imaging for enrolled dogs with specific conditions. Before scheduling at any facility, get a written all-inclusive quote and ask specifically: “Does this price include anesthesia, interpretation, and any contrast dye?” Never compare a bundled price at one facility to an unbundled base price at another — you may be comparing two very different total bills.

💡 Is a CT Scan Worth It for a Dog?

For the conditions veterinarians most commonly recommend CT for, the answer is yes — the diagnostic value is well-established and the clinical decision-making it enables is difficult or impossible to replicate with X-rays or ultrasound alone. CT is particularly high-value for: nasal cavity and sinus disease, inner ear and skull base masses, chest and lung pathology (including cancer staging), complex spinal and vertebral disc conditions requiring surgical planning, abdominal organ abnormalities, and traumatic injuries requiring orthopedic surgery. The right question before agreeing to any CT scan: “What specific treatment decision changes based on this scan’s result?” If your veterinarian can answer that clearly — “If the CT shows X, we do surgery; if it shows Y, we pursue medical management” — the scan is almost certainly worth it. If the answer is vague, ask again or seek a second opinion at a teaching hospital where a radiologist can consult. Note: PetMD confirms that CT scans are more widely available and consistently cheaper than MRIs — making CT the first-line advanced imaging choice when either modality would provide useful clinical information.

💡 Is a CT Scan Cheaper Than an MRI for Dogs?

Yes — CT scans are consistently less expensive and more widely available than dog MRIs. Dog CT scan: $800–$3,500. Dog MRI: $2,500–$5,000+. The reason: CT equipment is less expensive to purchase and operate than MRI machines, scan times are dramatically shorter (10–60 seconds vs. 45–90 minutes), and more veterinary facilities have CT access — including mobile units and general practices — compared to the more limited number of MRI-equipped specialty centers. From a medical standpoint: CT provides superior detail for bones, nasal cavities, chest/lung tissue, and abdominal organs. MRI is superior for soft tissue — brain parenchyma, spinal cord, intervertebral discs, and ligaments. For suspected neurological conditions (IVDD, brain tumor), your vet may specifically recommend MRI despite the higher cost. For most other conditions — nasal disease, chest pathology, trauma, tumors outside the CNS — CT is both the more affordable and the medically appropriate first choice.

Sources: PetMD petmd.com (CT $1,500–$3,500; CT vs. MRI availability; bones vs. soft tissue distinction); Vety.com 2026 (all facility type ranges; anesthesia $100–$400; bloodwork $80–$150; contrast $100–$200); BestiePaws 2025 (bundled flat-rate; 40–60% savings; mobile $800–$1,000); AVMA avma.org (teaching hospital directory; accreditation); Virginia Tech vth.vetmed.vt.edu (CT 10–20 sec; MRI 45–90 min; anesthesia vs. sedation); Morris Animal Foundation morrisanimalfoundation.org (clinical trials; free imaging for participants)

📍 Find Affordable Dog CT Scans Near You

Tap any button to search for veterinary CT imaging services, teaching hospitals, specialty hospitals, and low-cost imaging options near your location. Allow location access for the most accurate local results.

Finding locations near you…

✅ Five Steps to Get the Lowest Price on a Dog CT Scan

Step 1 — Get a written all-inclusive quote from at least two facilities before booking. The single most important cost-saving action: ask every facility whether their quote includes anesthesia, pre-scan bloodwork, contrast dye, and radiologist interpretation. A $1,400 quote that excludes anesthesia ($200–$400) and interpretation ($150–$500) often costs more than a $1,900 all-in flat-rate package. Never compare prices without confirming what each includes. Call your nearest veterinary teaching hospital first — they are typically the most transparent about all-inclusive pricing.
Step 2 — Search for a mobile veterinary CT service in your area. Mobile imaging units bring FDA-certified scanners to your regular vet’s clinic, eliminating specialty hospital overhead and typically offering all-inclusive pricing in the $900–$1,500 range. Ask your regular vet if they have a mobile CT partner. Search “[your city or state] mobile veterinary CT scan” for providers in your region. Mobile Animal CT (CA/AZ), Mobile Pet Imaging (FL), and Mobile Veterinary CT (Michigan) are established services — similar providers exist across most major metro areas.
Step 3 — Check for active clinical trials before scheduling. Search Morris Animal Foundation’s health studies database (morrisanimalfoundation.org) and your nearest veterinary school’s clinical trials page for studies that include your dog’s condition. If your dog has cancer, spinal disease, or a neurological condition, there is a meaningful chance that an active research study exists where CT imaging would be provided free of charge in exchange for participation. Johns Hopkins’ Center for Image Guided Animal Therapy in Baltimore runs free imaging trials for dogs with certain tumor types — and is actively seeking pilot sites nationally.
Step 4 — Apply for financial assistance before the procedure, not after. Frankie’s Friends (frankiesfriends.org, 888-465-7387) and Bow Wow Buddies (bowwowbuddies.com) can each provide up to $2,000–$2,500 in grants for CT scans as part of emergency or specialty care — but Frankie’s Friends does not reimburse care already completed. Apply before or on the day of the procedure. Stack applications to both simultaneously, and also apply for Scratchpay or CareCredit financing to cover any remaining gap. Brown Dog Foundation (browndogfoundation.org) can cover the full gap if no other funding reaches the total needed.
Step 5 — Ask whether sedation can replace full general anesthesia for your dog’s specific scan. At facilities with fast 64-slice CT scanners (10–20 second scan times), some dogs — depending on temperament, the scan region, and the scanner speed — can be imaged under light sedation rather than full general anesthesia. This can reduce cost by $100–$200 and reduce anesthesia risk, particularly in senior dogs or those with cardiac conditions. Virginia Tech’s VTH explicitly offers this option for appropriate cases. Ask any facility: “Given my dog’s size, temperament, and the scan region, is light sedation potentially sufficient for this procedure?”

📋 Key Contacts & Links — Save These: 🎓 avma.org — Teaching Hospital Directory 🏫 vet.cornell.edu · 607-253-3060 🌲 vmth.ucdavis.edu · 530-752-1393 🐾 flintanimalcancercenter.org · 970-297-4000 🔬 vth.vetmed.vt.edu · 540-231-4621 🚐 mobileanimalct.com (CA/AZ) 🚐 mobilepetimaging.com (FL) 🚐 mvctunit.com (Michigan) 💰 frankiesfriends.org · 888-465-7387 🐕 bowwowbuddies.com (up to $2,500) 🌴 face4pets.org · 858-450-3223 (CA/HI) 🔬 morrisanimalfoundation.org (trials) 🧪 Johns Hopkins: paws4acure.org (free trials) 💳 carecredit.com · 1-800-677-0718 📱 scratchpay.com · Text PAY → 855-727-2395 🐾 browndogfoundation.org 🌐 waggle.org (crowdfunding) 💼 withcherry.com (up to $35K) ✅ sunbit.com (90%+ approval) 🐾 281-469-8056 (Cypress Vet TX)

This guide is independently researched for informational purposes only. It does not constitute veterinary, financial, or legal advice and should not replace consultation with a licensed veterinarian. We are not affiliated with, compensated by, or endorsed by any facility, financing platform, or grant organization listed. Pricing ranges are estimates and vary by geographic location, facility type, dog size, scan complexity, and individual clinical circumstances — always obtain a written all-inclusive quote before scheduling any procedure. Clinical trial availability, grant funding levels, and program eligibility requirements change frequently — confirm directly with each organization before applying. All information verified from primary sources as of April 2026.

Primary sources: PetMD petmd.com (CT $1,500–$3,500+; anesthesia; radiologist; CT vs. MRI); Vety.com 2026 (national ranges; all facility types; anesthesia $100–$400; bloodwork $80–$150; interpretation $150–$500); Pewaukee Veterinary Service Jan 2026 (contrast dye; bundled pricing); BestiePaws bestiepaws.com 2025 (mobile $800–$1,000; flat-rate savings 40–60%; regional cooperatives); AVMA avma.org (accredited schools; teaching hospital 30–50% below private); Virginia Tech VTH vth.vetmed.vt.edu (540-231-4621; Canon Aquilion 64-slice; 10–20 sec; sedation vs. anesthesia; nasal/thorax/abdomen/MSK); Cornell vet.cornell.edu (607-253-3060; 24/7 emergency; Morris Animal Foundation trials); UC Davis vmth.ucdavis.edu (530-752-1393; clinical trials; DACVR; Bay Area cost comparison); Colorado State flintanimalcancercenter.org (970-297-4000; oncology CT staging; clinical trials); AVMF avmf.org (Stanton Foundation 2026 up to $150K; canine clinical trials; economically diverse; apps open through May 2026); Mobile Animal CT mobileanimalct.com (FDA-certified 8/16-slice helical; CA/AZ; 24–48hr reports; STAT reads); Mobile Pet Imaging mobilepetimaging.com (FL; DACVIM Dr. Armstrong; Miami/Broward/Monroe); Mobile Veterinary CT mvctunit.com (Michigan; 3D reconstruction; veterinarian testimonials); Frankie’s Friends frankiesfriends.org (888-465-7387; up to $2,000; 250% FPL; no reimbursement; vet submits); Bow Wow Buddies bowwowbuddies.com (up to $2,500 dogs; 30 days post-procedure retroactive); FACE Foundation face4pets.org (858-450-3223 CA; 808-300-8907 HI; 200+ hospitals; life-threatening; completed application required); Morris Animal Foundation morrisanimalfoundation.org (clinical trials; CT included for enrolled participants); Johns Hopkins/Kubanda Cryotherapy paws4acure.org (free imaging-guided clinical trials; Baltimore; mammary/sarcoma/lipoma; pilot sites expanding); CareCredit carecredit.com (275,000+ providers; 0% promo 6–24 months; 26.99% deferred; 1-800-677-0718); Scratchpay scratchpay.com ($200–$10K; 12–24 months; WebBank; NMLS 1582666; text 855-727-2395); Brown Dog Foundation browndogfoundation.org (full gap coverage; dogs + cats); Waggle waggle.org (vet-verified; corporate matching; direct to clinic); Cherry withcherry.com (up to $35K; 3–24 months; broad approval); Sunbit sunbit.com (90%+ approval; 3–72 months); Cypress Veterinary Hospital cypressvethospital.com (281-469-8056; Cypress TX; below-specialty pricing; referrals accepted)

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