Texas Tech University School of Veterinary Medicine (TTUSVM) has launched its Community and Regional Engagement Service (CARES) mobile veterinary unit, collaborating with Meals on Wheels to deliver essential pet care services to its clients.
The CARES unit serves as a mobile base of operations, offering free veterinary care to animals and pet owners in underserved areas of the Texas Panhandle. Funded by the Amarillo Area Foundation, through the Louise Bowers Slentz Foundation and Amber Fund, the school acquired this specialized unit at a cost of approximately $250,000. It is fully equipped with anesthesia equipment, a surgery suite, a remote work generator, and diagnostic tools tailored for veterinary care.
John Dascanio, senior associate dean for academic and student affairs at TTU School of Veterinary Medicine, highlighted the unit’s significance in both educational and community service contexts. “We are proud to expand our outreach services to support animal welfare and disaster response capabilities in the region,” he remarked. “This initiative not only educates our students in community service but also ensures veterinary care reaches those who might otherwise lack access, including those affected by natural disasters.”
Dascanio explained that the CARES unit is a culmination of years of planning, initially fostered through the school’s partnership with Meals on Wheels and its pet feeding program. Operational costs for client animal care are covered by the Veterinary Medical Foundation, ensuring all services provided by the school are free of charge. “This substantial investment from the Amarillo Area Foundation underscores our commitment to giving back to the community,” Dascanio emphasized.
The unit’s services extend beyond routine veterinary care, encompassing immunizations and disaster response readiness. “While primarily designed for small animals like dogs, the CARES unit is versatile enough to accommodate larger animals outside its mobile confines,” Dascanio noted. Future plans include expanding the unit to include a truck and trailer for additional kennel space, facilitating care for multiple animals awaiting treatment.
Kayla Wallace, a fourth-year student currently engaged in clinicals with the CARES unit, highlighted the educational value and community impact of the initiative. “Working with the CARES unit isn’t just about clinical practice; it’s about learning essential skills in veterinary medicine and communication,” Wallace shared. “This hands-on experience emphasizes the importance of community outreach and provides invaluable insights into caring for animals outside traditional clinic settings.”
Susie Akers, executive director of Meals on Wheels, emphasized the profound impact of the CARES unit on their clients. “Many of our homebound clients rely on pets for companionship and emotional support,” Akers explained. “The CARES unit ensures these cherished animals receive necessary care without separating them from their owners, making a significant difference in the lives of those we serve.”
In conclusion, Texas Tech University’s CARES mobile veterinary unit stands as a testament to educational innovation and community service, bridging the gap in pet care accessibility for vulnerable populations across the Texas Panhandle.
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