HELPING PETS, HELPING PEOPLE
final healthy pet clinic of 2013 fall season
(Syracuse, New York) The drizzle and cool temperatures of a typical November day in Syracuse did not deter pet owners from turning out in large numbers for the third and final Healthy Pet Clinic of the fall season in Syracuse. The Clinic was held inside the gymnasium at St. Lucy's Church on Gifford Street on Syracuse's near west side.
Volunteer veterinarians, technicians and animal advocates served approximately 150 dogs and cats. Pet owner had to provide documentation to demonstrate financial need, prove residency in the City of Syracuse and pay $10 cash per animal. In exchange for the small fee animals received vaccinations, exams, flea and tick treatment and other care as determined by the veterinarians.
"The weather provided a few challenges to the day so we brought more pets and their owners inside the gym to provide cover and warmth," said Shamrock Animal Fund co-founder Matt Mulcahy. Still people patiently waited for two hours for their opportunity to receive care for their pets. They also received information about low cost spay and neuter. Many took advantage of City of Syracuse dog licensing.
The Healthy Pet Clinics are now in their third year. During that time they have served about 1800 animals with low cost basic veterinary care.
Plans have not yet been made for the Clinics to return to their usual springtime location on the Assumption Church campus on Syracuse's north side. For information e-mail: info@shamrockanimalfund.com
REQUIREMENTS FOR CLINIC PARTICIPATION
Pet owners need to bring documentation of financial need. Individuals must make less than $25,000 per year. Households less than $40,000. Proof of Income includes a Tax Return or a NYS Benefit Card. Proof of address is required to show the pet owner lives in Syracuse.
There is a $10 cash fee per animal. Limit of three animals. Pet owners should ONLY bring animals in need of vaccinations and other care. Please do not bring your pet only for toe nail clippings or flea/tick product. The first priority is vaccinations then the other care follows at the veterinarians discretion.
Owners need to bring past veterinary and vaccination records. Cats must be in carriers. Dogs must be leashed and muzzled. No aggressive dogs.
The City of Syracuse offers 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 rabies paperwork and tags. Information is given on low cost spaying and neutering.
Watch slideshow of images from September 2013 Healthy Pet Clinic.