As Sussex County continues to grow – and as veterinarians still face pandemic-related challenges like an ongoing backlog of appointments or staffing shortages – many pet owners have struggled to access veterinary care.
Owners and providers across the country have been feeling this pressure on animal health care over the past two years, especially as the demand only increased with high adoption rates. But local animal welfare organizations say it has put a distinct strain on southern Delaware.
Burnout, backlog and bad behavior:Veterinarians face mounting challenges since pandemic
Just like human health care systems have been ramping up to meet the population growth, Sussex County veterinarians said in an earlier story that the number of providers has not been able to keep up with the growing patient load.
More people are moving to this area, and they’re bringing their – often multiple – pets with them. (All those dogs you see on the boardwalk or trails? They need vets, too.)
Beyond booking appointments or finding available veterinarians, many pet owners also face financial barriers to providing essential services such as preventative care, vaccinations, spay/neuter services, dental and other medical care.
That’s why the Delaware Humane Association and Delaware SPCA – two organizations that are in the process of merging – have announced a new initiative to provide more low-cost and free veterinary services in Sussex County.
MORE:Delaware Humane Association and Delaware SPCA to combine forces with merger
With a $188,000 grant from PetSmart Charities, DHA and Delaware SPCA will work with the Delaware Alliance for Nonprofit Advancement to research and better understand the community’s needs over the next two years.
They will determine what services might be most beneficial, such as a permanent physical veterinary clinic or multiple pop-up clinics at other community organizations throughout the county. They will also identify what other organizations, both human and animal serving, could be partners in carrying out these goals.
With that knowledge, the merged organization will then establish a pilot veterinary clinic in Sussex County, offering free and low-cost veterinary services and care, including comprehensive exams, preventative care, vaccinations, diagnostics and spay/neuter surgery.
This project will build on the existing low-cost vaccine clinics that DHA hosts in Sussex County by removing many of the cost barriers to accessing veterinary care.
FINDING VETS:What should pet owners do if every veterinarian is booked? Here’s what your local vets say
Patrick Carroll, executive director of DHA and future CEO of the soon-to-be-merged organization, said the organizations is excited for this opportunity to deliver needed animal care services to underserved communities in Sussex County.
“From a veterinary care standpoint, Sussex County suffers from a critical deficit of services, including limited 24-hour care and limited appointment availability in the county,” Carroll said. “And as in many low-income communities, cost of services is also a significant barrier for many families.”
This grant funding will help more families in need receive the veterinary care that ensures pets live long, healthy lives, according to Kelly Balthazor, senior manager of Community Grants at PetSmart Charities.
“We’re thankful for the important work these animal serving organizations are doing together to meet these critical needs for veterinary care,” Balthazor said. “Ultimately, loving homes with healthy pets help build more thriving communities.”
Emily Lytle covers Sussex County from the inland towns to the beaches. Got a story she should tell? Contact her at elytle@delmarvanow.com or 302-332-0370. Follow her on Twitter at @emily3lytle.
