4 minute read
PAWS AND EFFECT: KEEPING OUR RESIDENT’S PETS PURRR-FECTLY HEALTHY
In June of 2021, a simple inquiry about low-cost veterinary services sparked what is now a very popular program at Greccio Housing, with spaces that fill up as fast as they are announced. It all began with a phone call received by Resident Resource team member, Cristal Hubbard, about a resident seeking affordable care for their beloved pet. Little did they know, this call would ignite a chain of events leading to the establishment of a vital resource for Greccio Housing pet owners in need.
Upon receiving the inquiry, Hubbard wasted no time in seeking solutions. Consulting with their program manager at the time, and equipped with a business card from The Pet Cross, obtained during a visit to a partner organization, Catholic Charities, the duo explored accessible veterinary options for Greccio Housing residents.
This got me to thinking. There was a time in my life when I lived paycheck to paycheck and struggled to pay for annual shots for my animals and bet a large portion of our residents face a similar challenge with affording care. Maybe we can provide a clinic for our those in need.
- Cristal Hubbard, Resident Resource Coordinator, at Greccio Housing
The discovery of The Pet Cross’s vaccine clinics planted the seed of an idea within Hubbard’s mind. Reflecting on personal struggles with affording annual shots for their own animals during financially challenging times, they envisioned a solution that could benefit numerous residents facing similar hardships. Thus, the concept of hosting affordable veterinary clinics for residents was born!
On October 12th, 2021, the first clinic became a reality, marking a significant milestone in the community’s journey towards accessible pet care. Eighteen animals received vital vaccinations, setting the stage for future endeavors. Over the course of 2023, the initiative blossomed, with a total of 98 animals benefiting from four clinics through out the year.
As the program gained momentum, the scope expanded. This April heralds a new chapter as the clinic extends its services to encompass wellness checks and consultations for pet illnesses or concerns. With this Veterinarian Dr. Lisa’s expertise will now be available to address a broader array of pet healthcare needs, further enhancing the clinic’s impact on the community.
Such services included during the mobile vet clinic visits are canine rabies, distemper/parvo, leptospirosis, and bordatella vaccines, while felines can receive rabies and FVRCP (feline herpes and feline distemper). At this time surgeries and x-rays aren’t available but Dr. Lisa is able to perform sample collections and lab work.
What began as a simple inquiry has evolved into a beacon of hope for our pet owners facing financial constraints. Through collaborative efforts and unwavering dedication, Hubbard, alongside their supportive team in Resident Resources and partners at The Pet Cross, has transformed a simple vision into a reality.
The Pet Cross, founded in 2019 by Dr. Lisa Thompson, is proud to offer mobile veterinary services to those in need. Their clinic includes a pharmacy and a laboratory that allows them to provide basic veterinary care, such as preventative medicine, treating infections, and illnesses. Learn more at thepetcross.org.
“The oversight of charitable services for the pets of the homeless has been a concern of mine since veterinary school. The need was obvious on the streets of downtown everywhere, but it took many years to reach a point in life that we could donate the time and money this cause deserved. It is with great pleasure and a full heart that we can now do our part to fill this need.” - Dr. Lisa Thompson
