Free Pet Clinic Provides Healthcare for Animals and Their Owners
A new pet clinic in Sharpsburg is offering a unique approach to healthcare, providing essential services for both animals and their human companions – all free of charge. Roots of Faith, a nonprofit ministry, has partnered with Allegheny Health Network (AHN) and Humane Animal Rescue of Pittsburgh to launch this innovative initiative known as the Humane Health Coalition.
Addressing Needs at Both Ends of the Leash
“We’re addressing needs at both ends of the leash,” says Kathleen Stanley, executive director of Roots. “We recognize that the health of people and their pets are inextricably linked.”
The program, inspired by the CDC’s One Health model of care, is designed to address the pressing needs of underserved communities facing financial burdens. It offers a variety of services, including vaccinations, microchipping, and minor medical treatments for pets, as well as health screenings, social service referrals, and basic necessities like Hepatitis C shots, Narcan, and warm clothing for their owners.
A Standing-Room Only Response
The first free clinic event in late November was met with overwhelming enthusiasm. All 30 available slots were quickly filled, with a diverse range of animals – dogs, cats, hamsters, even a snake – brought in for checkups by their owners.
“People thought it was fantastic,” Stanley shared. “It’s truly fulfilling to see the positive impact this program is having on both the animals and the people.”
A Lifechanging Service for Pet Owners
For residents like Deanie Cafeo, a single mother who considers her dog a member of the family, the clinic is nothing short of life-changing.
“I’m not able to afford pet medication or veterinarian visits,” Cafeo honestly admits. “The services they offer are amazing. It’s truly a blessing, especially with the rising costs of everything these days. For me, it’s life-changing.”
Bridging the Gap: Pet Food Pantries Pave the Way
Roots has been addressing the needs of pets and their owners for nearly two years by hosting free pet food pantries.
“It really took off,” Stanley says of the pantry initiative. “It makes a difference because milk, bread, and eggs aren’t the only things that have gone up. It’s crazy what pet food costs.”
The pet food pantries highlighted a crucial need within the community, revealing the financial struggles many face in ensuring their pets’ well-being. This paved the way for the more comprehensive Humane Health Coalition.
Reaching Out with the MOVES Van
The roving clinic’s mobile unit, affectionately dubbed the MOVES (Medical, Outreach, Veterinary, Essential, Support) van, is equipped with essential medical supplies and animal cages, allowing them to bring healthcare directly to those who need it most.
Awards:
Lately, Stanley remarked, “The van allows us to reach people where they are, breaking down barriers to care. We can provide a range of services, from flea and tick prevention to common medications and hygienic care, all delivered with compassion and understanding.”
Strengthening Connections, Building Trust
A core principle of the Humane Health Coalition is teamwork. AHN nurses, social workers, and outreach staff work in concert with volunteer veterinarians not only to provide vital healthcare but also to connect individuals with additional resources.
“A lot of times, the care is provided to people who get left in the dust because of addiction or mental health issues,” explains Stanley. “This program allows us to build trust and connect with individuals who may not typically seek help, allowing us to address their needs holistically.”
Looking Ahead:
Roots of Faith is planning to hold approximately four or five pet clinics in the coming year. The next event is scheduled for December 19th from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. at their Main Street location.
“This program aligns perfectly with our organizational mission to address social determinants of health, which include housing, transportation, utilities, and food access,” says Stanley. “We believe pets play a crucial role in people’s lives, and providing care for their furry companions has a positive ripple effect on their overall well-being.
Statistics consistently show that owning a pet gets people out of their homes more, decreasing feelings of anxiety and depression. It truly makes a difference in people’s lives.
“Owning a pet really, really matters.”
How does the Humane Health Coalition ensure accessibility to their services for people and pets in need?
## A Pawsitive Solution: Free Clinic Provides Healthcare for Pets and Their Owners
**Interviewer:** Welcome back to the show! Today, we’re talking about an inspiring new initiative right here in Sharpsburg: the Humane Health Coalition. Joining me today is Kathleen Stanley, Executive Director of Roots of Faith, one of the organizations behind this innovative program. Kathleen, thanks for being here.
**Kathleen Stanley:** Thank you for having me!
**Interviewer:** Let’s dive right in. Can you tell our viewers about the Humane Health Coalition and what it offers to the community?
**Kathleen Stanley:** Absolutely! The Humane Health Coalition is a partnership between Roots of Faith, Allegheny Health Network, and Humane Animal Rescue of Pittsburgh. We’ve created a truly unique program that provides free healthcare services for both animals and their human companions.
**Interviewer:** That’s remarkable! What kind of services can people expect to find?
**Kathleen Stanley:** We offer a range of services, including vaccinations, microchipping, basic medical treatments for pets, as well as health screenings and referrals to social services for their owners. We also provide essential items like Hepatitis C shots, Narcan, and warm clothing.
**Interviewer:** This sounds like a game-changer for people facing financial hardship.
**Kathleen Stanley:** We believe the health of people and their pets are deeply connected. This program addresses a vital need in our community, especially for underserved families who may struggle to afford basic healthcare for themselves and their beloved pets.
**Interviewer:** Your first clinic event was a huge success, wasn’t it?
**Kathleen Stanley:** Yes, it was truly heartwarming. We had 30 slots available, and they filled up instantly! We saw dogs, cats, hamsters, even a snake come in for checkups. The response was overwhelmingly positive, and seeing the relief and joy on the faces of both the animals and their owners was incredibly fulfilling.
**Interviewer:** You mentioned that this program grew out of your pet food pantry initiative. Can you tell us a little about that?
**Kathleen Stanley:** We started the pet food pantries almost two years ago, and they were an immediate success. It became clear that many families were struggling to afford pet food, and this highlighted a bigger need within our community. It inspired us to create the more comprehensive Humane Health Coalition.
**Interviewer:** You folks are truly making a difference.
**Kathleen Stanley:** We’re just grateful to be able to help. And with our MOVES van – our Medical, Outreach, Veterinary, Essential, Support unit – we can bring these essential services directly to those who need them most.
**Interviewer:** Well, Kathleen, thank you so much for sharing this inspiring story with us today.
**Kathleen Stanley:** My pleasure. I encourage anyone interested in learning more or supporting the Humane Health Coalition to visit our website at RootsofFaith.org.
