Free Veterinary Pet Clinics in Chattanooga, TN
The first-ever clinic for dogs and cats of the homeless in Chattanooga, TN, was held in April 2010 at the Metropolitan Ministries.
"The program was Dr. Darlene White's idea." says Rebecca Whechel, Executive Director of Metropolitan Ministries. "At the ministry we try to provide supportive services for the homeless in one single place. When we provide help right here, right now, we look for opportunities to expand what the clients tell us they need."
Rebecca Whechel, Dir.
Darlene White, DVM Metropolitan Ministries
Veterinarian, Darlene White from Wolftever Pet Hospital, covered all costs for the 15 dogs, which were vaccinated, received a dose of dewormer and a flea pill. Two of the puppies with severe, mange were treated. Dr. White later reported, "The two most pitiful puppies which had potentially deadly sarcoptic mange, are 100% better."
"More animals," Dr. White said, "could have been helped but there weren't enough supplies. I can only provide a limited amount each month. The need is great, and if more money were available, more dogs and cats could be vaccinated."
Genevieve Frederick, Founder/Executive Director of Pets of the Homeless was pleased to award a $400 grant to help with the monthly clinics.
The clinics focus mainly on vaccinations, but, deworm and flea treatments are also given.
One day after the clinic in May 2010, a sick dog was given a heartworm test and treated with medication. In June, an indigent family that needed to use what money they had to bury a family member, received care for their dog.
Pets of the Homeless awarded another $400 grant in December 2010, to help with the on-going costs associated with the clinics.
"We know the companionship our clients feel for their pets and their relationship with them is really quite critical." Ms. Whechel emphasized, "The homeless and the very, very poor are kind of short on relationships. They're also very short on money so pet care is certainly not something they can budget their meager resources for. We find it important to provide a safety net for their needs and their pets needs. The unconditional love they get from their pets, they get from nowhere else and we're glad to support them."
"This outreach is having a positive impact in the lives of an increasing number of pets of the homeless each month." Ms Frederick said, "We will work to recruit collection sites in the Chattanooga area. This should help make pet food and other supplies available that can then be distributed at the pet clinics."
