Lou and Norma Jane Ball

Changing lives by: planning for a pet’s future while also supporting the K-State’s College of Veterinary Medicine.

What is it: The Perpetual Pet Care Program allows pet owners to plan for the long-term care of their animal companions, should they die or become unable to care for them, by creating a bequest. Funds remaining after the death of the animal companion are then used to support the College of Veterinary Medicine at K-State.

How it all started: More than 10 years ago, Lou and Norma Jane Ball, Manhattan, Kan., welcomed purebred Himalayan litter mates, Tiffany and Coco, into their family. Lou and Norma Jane were both in their 70s at the time, and the “kids,” as the Balls referred to them, were the couple’s only family members.

“We got into a conversation that we were at the age that we didn’t know if we could take care of the kids,” Lou said. “We needed for them to have the opportunity to have a good life. In the conversation, we came to the conclusion that we could get the care we were looking for by working with the vet school.”

A program flourishes: The couple worked with the staff at the College of Veterinary Medicine and the idea for the Perpetual Pet Care Program was born. There are 24 families with 73 animals enrolled in the program with a giving commitment of nearly $4.8 million to K-State. These gifts will not only help animals in need, but provide unique opportunities to support K-State and the College of Veterinary Medicine.

What people are saying: “Lou and Norma Jane are remarkable people,” said Dr. Roger Fingland, director of the Veterinary Medical Teaching Hospital. “They have supported our hospital in every way possible. The fact that they want to provide support for animals enrolled in the Perpetual Pet Care Program demonstrates their commitment and their compassion. Lou and Norma Jane have been an inspiration to the staff in our hospital. Truth be told, the greatest gift is the Balls themselves.”