Healthy Pet Clinics embark on second year of voluntary service to animals and needy owners in Syracuse

(Syracuse, NY) - By late Sunday morning volunteers will convert the quiet of the old gymnasium at St. Lucy’s Church in Syracuse into a hive of activity to deliver veterinary care to animals who otherwise would go without. The Healthy Pet Clinics organized by the Shamrock Animal Fund and the Central New York Animal Welfare Coalition are returning for a second year of offering low cost care in some of the city’s most impoverished neighborhoods.

This innovative program served some 650 dogs and cats in its first year of operation. At times pet owners waited for several hours for the opportunity to receive a low cost exam, vaccinations, flea and tick treatment and whatever other care the staff of volunteer veterinarians can offer in the makeshift clinical setting.

 This series of fall clinics return to St. Lucy’s Church at 425 Gifford Street in Syracuse from 1:00 to 4:00 pm on Sundays: September 9th, October 14th and November 11th. These clinics specifically are offered for residents of Syracuse’s south and near west sides. Pet owners who live outside of the Syracuse city limits cannot be served.

People are encouraged to arrive early. Owners must bring documentation of financial need and proof of address. There is a $10 cash fee per animal. Owners need to bring past veterinary and vaccination records. Cats must be in carriers. Dogs must be leashed. Aggressive dogs need muzzles. The City of Syracuse will offer dog licensing for an additional fee of $10 per dog that is fixed and $20 per dog that is not fixed. Onondaga County is assisting with support on rabies vaccinations and tags. Information will also be given on low cost spaying and neutering.

Up to ten exam tables will be in operation on September 9th staffed by volunteer veterinarians and veterinary technicians from several Central New York animal hospitals. The Cornell University Shelter Medicine Program, under the direction of Dr. Elizabeth Berliner, also offers critical support to the Clinic including veterinary students and other expertise. A group of 25 volunteers will coordinate and administer the Clinic operations.

You can find more information about the fall Healthy Pet Clinics and past Clinics by going to Shamrockanimalfund.com or Facebook.com/shamrockanimalfund. Pet owners can call 315-415-8563 with questions or e-mail: info@shamrockanimalfund.com