Amidst the bustling crowd of pet owners eagerly waiting outside the Chicanos por la Causa Carl Hayden Community Center, the dedicated volunteers and staff of the Arizona Animal Welfare League (AAWL), in partnership with PetSmart Charities, hosted their first community clinic event.
“People lined up hours before the clinic even started. Their cats bundled in blankets, their dogs in cozy in their kennels or snuggled up inside their jackets,” says Sarah Ocampo, Community Grants Manager for PetSmart Charities. “People are so excited to be here; our partners and volunteers are here to make this happen. We have families receiving vaccines for their pets for the first time.”
The event aimed to provide much-needed vaccinations for pets belonging to families facing barriers to accessible and affordable veterinary care. One of the many heartwarming moments of the day was witnessing the joy and relief on pet owners’ faces as they received essential vaccines for their beloved companions, free of charge. For many, this event meant not having to choose between their pet’s health and putting food on the table.
“This is such a high-need, underserved community,” explains Alessandra Navidad, President and CEO of the Arizona Animal Welfare League. “It’s a veterinary desert with little to no access to veterinary services. This event is part of our ongoing mission to enhance the health and wellness of these pets and ensure we’re a reliable resource for the pet owners,” she adds.
Among the attendees were Carina and her beloved companion, Bebe. Carina is known as the kind-hearted pet lover in her neighborhood, and Bebe is one of countless pets who were left abandoned at her doorstep. With limited resources, she was concerned about the cost of vaccinations and healthcare for her pets. The vaccination clinic created a reliable resource that ensured her pet’s health and well-being without worrying about financial strain.
The event’s impact reverberated throughout the community, sparking conversations about the transformative power of accessible veterinary care and the potential of collective action in addressing societal challenges. It was a powerful reminder that no family should be deprived of essential healthcare for their pets due to financial constraints.
As the day drew to a close and the last pet received its vaccination, the volunteers and staff members of AAWL felt a sense of accomplishment. Their dedication made a tangible difference in the lives of over 300 pets, reaffirming their commitment to their mission of saving and improving the lives of animals and their families.
The event was also a testament to the AAWL’s commitment to the well-being of animals and its dedication to serving the local community. PetSmart Charities is proud to support AAWL and organizations across the country, committed to the well-being of animals and dedicated to serving the local community.
Every dollar makes a difference in ensuring that more pets receive the care they deserve and that families experience the joy of having a healthy and happy companion. Make a gift today to help pets stay together with those who love them.
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