Nilla’s Grant
About Nilla
Nilla was the beloved pet of Hand & Paw Founder & President, Kristina, for nearly 15.5 years. Nilla was a constant companion, always by Kristina’s side, through life’s changes and struggles. It’s Nilla’s paw in Kristina’s hand that created the original logo for Hand & Paw. To honor the life of Nilla, we’ve renamed our Emergency Medical Grant to NILLA’S GRANT.
Nilla’s Grant
Nilla’s Grant is our Psalm 36:6 Program, designed to provide financial assistance for emergency or life-altering veterinarian treatment for loving pet owners who cannot afford the total expense.
Psalm 36:6 "... You care for people and animals alike, O Lord." (New Living Translation).
About the Grant
The grant is intended to supplement a portion of the total expense, and the value of the grant will be determined by the Board based on the applicant’s financial needs, severity of the treatment, and available program funds.
If the grant is approved, the funds are paid directly to the veterinarian.
To be considered for the grant, the applicant must provide proof of income demonstrating the need for financial assistance.
Only completed applications will be reviewed by the Board. Applying for assistance does not automatically mean you will be approved.
Grant approvals are based on several factors including financial need, time sensitivity, and availability of funding. You must provide a detailed cost estimate, including the diagnosis and treatment plan from the veterinarian as part of the application. You must also allow Hand & Paw access to your pet’s medical records at the provided veterinarian – please contact the provider and give consent for Hand & Paw to access your pet’s records.
We are an all-volunteer non-profit organization and will do our best to review and reply as quickly as possible.
If approved, funds pledged must be distributed within 30 days of approval (funding will only be sent directly to the veterinarian).
Sugar’s Second Chance: How a Community Saved a Beloved Senior Pup
Thirteen‑year‑old Sugar has spent her whole life being a loyal companion — gentle, affectionate, and always close to her sibling pup. But earlier this year, her family received heartbreaking news: Sugar had developed a tumor that required immediate surgery. Without it, her life was at risk. Her owners, already facing financial hardship, simply didn’t have the means to cover the cost of the procedure.
That’s where Hand & Paw stepped in.

