3 minute read
A LETTER FROM OUR CEO
Providing Access To Pet Care
Animals have always been a part of my life. From the toy poodle I had as a child to the horses my wife and I cared for back in Saskatchewan, the different bonds I’ve shared with animals over the years have been a unique source of lasting joy.
Every animal, every bond, has taught me something new. Something valuable. Each has been a lifeline during difficult times. I could not imagine losing this bond because the cost of basic veterinary care was too high.
Sadly, this is the reality for many pet parents across North America. As prices of everything from food, gas, and basic necessities soar higher than before, affordable pet care has also become scarce. With limited resources available, some pet parents must choose between putting food in their pet’s bowls or in their own.
While many pet parents do what they can to budget and plan for their pet’s wellbeing, sometimes the unexpected happens and they’re faced with an even bigger cost dilemma: pay thousands of dollars for an emergency vet bill, surrender the animal, or euthanize them.
When access to affordable care is jeopardized, the human-animal bond is at risk too. In this issue of Animal Talk, you’ll read about our community programs and services that help preserve this unique relationship –such as the Pet Parent Support Network. By simply listening to the needs of pet parents and offering them alternative solutions such as training and behaviour classes, pet food, and subsidized veterinary services, 33% of potential animal surrenders were diverted in 2022.
Additionally, our outreach services provide support to pets and their families by providing pop-up animal wellness clinics to communities that have limited access to veterinary care. Not only do these clinics provide affordable preventative care options such as spay-and-neuter surgeries, vaccines, and flea, tick, and heartworm preventatives, but they also provide a lifeline to community members.
I’ve always wanted to be a veterinarian. As far back as I can remember, helping animals just seemed like the right thing to do. Their unconditional love, the way they look up to you for guidance, and the way just a little wag of their tail can instantly bring a smile to someone’s face – the unique human-animal bond is the reason why many wake up in the morning and I wanted to be a part of that by helping animals live long, healthy lives.
I can’t imagine what my life would be like without the love, support, and joy that animals bring. Thanks to you, many families won’t have to experience that heartbreaking feeling either. I hope that the following pages and stories leave you feeling proud. Together, we’re making a difference and giving more pets the care they need to be healthy and happy with their families.
Sincerely,
