17 Dec 2024
By Humane Society of Ventura County
At HSVC, we believe every pet deserves access to care, regardless of where their owners call home. That's why we are thrilled to share the story of our mobile Pet Wellness Clinic's first run, bringing animal wellness services directly to the pets of an unhoused community in Ventura County. Pets provide essential companionship, comfort, and love to their owners. For many, these animals are not just pets; they're family. However, access to veterinary care, including spaying and neutering, can be limited and costly for unhoused individuals. Our mobile Pet Wellness Clinic was designed to break down these barriers, offering compassionate, no-cost services to ensure healthier lives for both pets and their owners.
On December 12th, our HSVC Cares team set out with the fully equipped mobile Pet Wellness Clinic ready to serve our community. Despite the chilly weather, pet owners arrived with their dogs and cats, trusting us to provide the care their animals needed. Our veterinary team spayed and neutered eight cats and four dogs throughout the day. These procedures play a vital role in reducing overpopulation and improving the long-term health of pets. For some pet owners, this was the first time they'd been able to access veterinary care, and their gratitude was both heartwarming and humbling. Beyond the procedures, our team provided basic health checks, vaccinations, and resources to support ongoing pet care.