Four-Legged Care, Five-Star Thanks

In a county that nearly 39,000 veterans and military family members call home, even routine expenses can start to stack up in ways that are easy to overlook. Pet care is often one of them. A checkup here, vaccines there, and suddenly something simple turns into something postponed. That’s why this May, as Military Appreciation Month begins, Planned PEThood of Georgia is stepping in with a solution that feels both practical and deeply personal.

Through its Heroes Program, the Duluth-based nonprofit is offering free veterinary care for qualifying active-duty, veteran, and retired service members throughout the entire month. Funded by The Sunstate Foundation, the initiative focuses on preventive and routine services for up to two pets per household. It’s a simple idea with a meaningful ripple effect. Healthier pets, fewer financial tradeoffs, and less strain on local shelters that often take in animals when care becomes too expensive.

What to Know Before You Book

The program runs throughout May, but it’s not something to put off. Appointments are required in advance, and availability is limited. A small refundable deposit holds your spot, which helps ensure those appointment times are used and respected.

Here’s what the Heroes Program includes at a glance:

• Preventive and routine veterinary services 
• Coverage for up to two pets per household 
• Care provided at the Duluth clinic 
• Eligibility for active-duty, veteran, and retired service members 
• Advance scheduling required with a refundable booking deposit 

For many families, this isn’t just about saving money; it’s about staying ahead of issues before they become emergencies, keeping beloved pets in good health, and avoiding the kind of difficult decisions no one wants to make. It also reflects something Gwinnett does well: showing up in ways that are useful, thoughtful, and grounded in real need.

Programs like this rarely come with a lot of fanfare, but they tend to leave a lasting impact. A routine visit that happens on time. A pet that stays in a home instead of entering a shelter. A family that gets a little breathing room where it matters. That’s the kind of appreciation that sticks.

For more local resources and pet services, check out our full guide: https://www.guidetogwinnett.com/pets-animals.