The foundation, an arm of the American Animal Hospital Association (AAHA), awards grants supporting veterinary care for pets that have been abandoned or whose owners are experiencing financial hardship.

"Our contribution to the Helping Pets Fund is our way to continue helping pets and their families get needed care that could not be obtained otherwise," says Doug Hammond, CareCredit senior vice president, in a prepared statement.

Since its creation in 2005, the AAHA fund doled out more 1,000 grants, association officials say.

For more information go to www.aahahelpingpets.org or call (866)443-5738.