GAHS grant will help increase veterinary access to community

Aug. 142022

LEWISTON – Greater Androscoggin Humane Society recently was awarded a $110,000 grant to support pets and pet parents in need of veterinary services.
Nearly 50 million pets in the U.S. cannot access even the most basic veterinary care because of cost and barriers. Pets in under-resourced communities often do not receive essential services such as preventative care, vaccinations, spay/neuter services, dental and other medical care. The PetSmart Charities grant will allow the GAHS to expand affordable basic wellness services, providing vaccinations, sterilization surgery, and other medical needs that will help pets stay in homes where they are loved.
“Every day, we hear from community members who are struggling to provide veterinary care to their dog or cat,” said Katie Lisnik, GAHS executive director. “We are dedicated to improving access to basic wellness care to help pets and people in need. We are so thankful for the support of PetSmart Charities, which will help us grow our program through equipment and facility improvements.”
According to the Human-Animal Bond Research Institute, pets make a significant impact in the health and wellness of the people they love. This grant funding will help more families in need receive the veterinary care that ensures pets live long, healthy lives.
“Pets are important members of the family,” said Aimee Gilbreath, president of PetSmart Charities. “We know 40 percent of low-income pet parents cite a lack of access to veterinary care as a top reason for surrendering their pets. And that’s an impossible choice to have to make. We’re proud to support the meaningful progress being made by the Greater Androscoggin Humane Society to keep pets and people together.”
Greater Androscoggin Humane Society provides a safe haven for over 2,500 sick, homeless, needy and abused animals in the greater Androscoggin area each year. Additionally, thousands more are assisted through food assistance, vaccines, and other pet wellness services. Our mission is to enrich lives; supporting and engaging the community by providing effective, accessible and innovative services and advocacy for animals. The primary support for the GAHS comes from fundraising events and donations from individuals.
For more information on GAHS, visit Visit savingpetsinmaine.org to learn more about veterinary services, adoptions, volunteering, fostering and more.

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