Veterinary Funding

Each year we work with local community agencies, veterinary hospitals and veterinary medical staff to provide free health clinics for the pets of the homeless and those that are low income. Currently, we are authorized by the College of Veterinarians of British Columbia to hold these clinics in Vancouver’s downtown eastside, New Westminster, Langley, Abbotsford and Surrey. We are aware that the need for our clinics is province wide and we aim to continue to expand.

These clinics are part of our ongoing, long-term goal to increase access to veterinary care and to build a sustainable animal welfare system that provides the utmost care for our companion animals in our province. The Better Together program promotes responsible pet guardianship by assisting individuals to get basic veterinary care for their pets. We increase people’s knowledge of the benefits of spaying and neutering their pets, with a goal of getting them to agree to sterilize their pet. By providing the necessary vaccinations, we also provide health benefits to the community at large, by reducing the likelihood of the spread of deadly diseases, such as parvovirus, distemper and rabies. Information on responsible basic care, and pet guardianship, including licensing information, is also made available.

Our animal health clinics are run by our volunteer Animal Health Team. Many of the supplies are donated from veterinary medical supply companies. The clinics are busy days, with many cases requiring follow-up care, such as medications or surgeries. Each pet who requires care beyond what can be treated at the clinic receives the veterinary care needed. Donations to the Better Together help to keep our clinics going, and ensure those pets receive the follow-up care they need.