The Brant Animal Aid Foundation got its start in 1997 when a dedicated animal owner convinced some area veterinarians to join together and establish a fund that would provide an additional source of support for programs that assist people caring for animals.
That dedicated animal owner was Mary Welsh, a community-minded individual who saw a need. The veterinarians that had joined her were Dr. John Huigenbos and Dr. C. G. Scott.
Together they raised the capital to create a fund through personal and community donations and structured policies that became the genesis of the Brant Animal Aid Foundation.
Over the ensuing years, many hundreds of area residents have received support for the care of their animals in a time of need. The Foundation has been supported over the years through donations and bequests including a sizeable bequest by Mary Welsh, upon her death in 2023.