President's Message


The launch of BirchBark Foundation is a dream that's been germinating for some time.

After decades of veterinary practice on the Central Coast, I reflect on how lucky I am to work in an area full of people who love animals, and on the remarkable demonstrations of the human-animal bond I’ve seen over the years.

One of the most challenging parts of my job is watching people say goodbye to a savable pet because of a financial obstacle. BirchBark is the result of a dream to help those people keep that wonderful bond with their pets by helping to remove all or part of the financial obstacle. At the same time, we offer information to help people be the best caregivers and health advocates they can for their pets.

I'd like to extend a huge thank-you to all those who've encouraged and supported us as we've developed BirchBark Foundation. We couldn't have gotten here without the support of our Founders Circle, Associate Member hospitals, the generosity of our friends & supporters, our volunteers and the community members who have helped us in countless ways.  Thank you all!

Dr. Merrianne Burtch, DVM, DACVIM
Founder, BirchBark Foundation
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MISSION

BirchBark Foundation protects and honors the human-animal bond through financial assistance to vulnerable families faced with unaffordable medical expenses to save the life of a pet, and support for all families with our education and pet loss counseling programs.

VISION

Financial hardship should never cause the loss of any family pet.