Proposal for A Community Veterinary Free Clinic

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Serving the Human Animal Bond

PROPOSAL FOR A COMMUNITY

VETERINARY FREE CLINIC I believe in animal rights, and high among them is the right to the gentle stroke of a human hand. ~Robert Brault

Ve t e r i n a r y F r e e C l i n i c"

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April 14. 2011

To whom it may concern, The attached preliminary proposal is being distributed to members of the community who had expressed an interest in reviewing the paper and offering comments during an open comment period: May/June 2011.

It is the undersigned, listed Board Members who have asked for your comments prior to the establishment of a Veterinary Free Clinic serving pet companions of homeless and economically disadvantaged members of our community.

This proposal is not presented as either complete or inclusive. We anticipate that there will be ample opportunity for any persons, who choose, to become involved by contributing to the final development and implementation of the project.

If you will direct your questions or comments to me by email or at the phone number listed below, I will respond as you request.

Sincerely, Harlan Douglas Weikle Executive Director For Paws Hospice 727.639.9285

Ve t e r i n a r y F r e e C l i n i c • t e l e p h o n e : 7 2 7 , 6 3 9 . 9 2 8 5 • e m a i l : H a r l a n @ F o r P a w s H o s p i c e . o r g

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Serving the Human Animal Bond

Position Paper A society is judged by its treatment of its weakest and most vulnerable members. - Ban Ki-moon, 2007.

In this paper we will describe the concept and preliminary plan for implementation of a Veterinary Free Clinic for pets of the homeless and economically disadvantaged families in Pinellas County.

The clinic, based on a model developed in 2007 at the University of Florida, Gainesville and in conjunction with the homeless shelter called St. Francis is intended to serve a growing population of homeless and economically disadvantaged families who lack access to basic veterinary care for their pets.

Eligibility The clinic will be open to the general public one or two days per month, scheduled in advance.

Pet owners must pre-register their pets before making an appointment, supplying any veterinary medical records, if any, including proof of vaccinations, licensing and or county registrations.

Applicants will also need to supply proof of county residency as well as documentation demonstrating financial need such as eligibility for food stamps, welfare eligibility, social security eligibility income statements, or a recent IRS tax statement.

Limited Veterinary Medical Practice The clinic will be staffed by volunteers, veterinarians, vet techs and administrative personnel working a rotating, part time schedule.

Medical services will include physical exams and consultation, basic medical care, first aid, and some surgical procedures, including a spay and neuter program as determined by community need. Flea and tick preventatives as well as access to pharmaceuticals will be made available.

The clinic will endeavor to outsource laboratory workups to existing veterinary clinics in the area on a contract basis or as a referral option when the patients needs additional care.

It is our intention to price these services based on a sliding scale to be determined by the client’s ability to pay. No qualified applicant will be denied medical care for their companion animal.

Location and logistics A 2.5 acre site in the north end of the county has been offered as a site for the Free Clinic for the consideration of $1.00 annually. The site is zoned agricultural with easy access from major arteries. The clinic will occupy a portion of the main structure which also houses a professional dog training center.

Insurance and applicable licensing fees relating to the clinic and its operation will be the sole responsibility of the clinic, utilities will be proportioned.

Signed The Board of Directors for the purpose of establishing the Free Veterinary Clinic, Dr. Kevin Conrad, Carol Conrad, Cathy Herrewig, Nancy Weikle and Harlan Weikle with Kevin Conrad appointed as Medical Director.

Ve t e r i n a r y F r e e C l i n i c!

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