SCHENECTADY — More than 100 people lined up outside the YWCA of Northeastern New York last week for a dog wellness clinic courtesy of the Animal Protective Foundation (APF). Dozens of Schenectady families brought their furry friends to receive free veterinary services, including vaccinations, basic exams, microchips and flea and tick preventatives.
APF is a humane society serving Schenectady County and the greater Capital Region. Executive Director Joe Lisella said the organization introduced its community wellness clinics a year and a half ago in order to ease the financial burden of pet ownership on local families.
“This is a way for us to make sure that people who are struggling financially can get the help they need,” Lisella said. “ With the lack of access for veterinary care in the city of Schenectady, the need is really huge and pronounced. I believe there are only three active veterinary practices for more than 65,000 people. We can’t solve all the problems, but we’re chipping away at at least getting basic veterinary exams, vaccinations and flea and tick preventatives for dogs.”
Victoria Cernik and her dog Kaya wait outside the clinic to receive treatment.
APF serves over 5,000 animals each year. While the foundation houses cats, dogs and small animals at its shelter in Glenville, it also works to help animals outside shelter walls. Otto Zamek, president of the board of directors for APF, said the organization aims to support pets and their families in areas where access to veterinary care is scarce.
“One of the board’s goals is to improve and increase our community outreach and go to underserved areas,” Zamek said. “The turnout here just shows that there was a need.”
Roughly 90 dogs received care at the clinic, which was open from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. on July 15. Past APF clinics have helped as many as 150 pets in a day. The clinics focus on basic preventative care rather than chronic medical concerns. Pets are seen on a first come, first served basis.
APF’s clinics would not be possible without its partners. Petco donates vaccines to be administered at the clinics. APF also partners with the Banfield Foundation, the charitable arm of Banfield Pet Hospital, to offer quality veterinary care. Banfield, a Washington state-based company, lends its veterinary staff and resources to deliver preventative care to pets in need across the United States. It has four local locations in Niskayuna, Latham, Saratoga Springs and Clifton Park.
Stacey Oke, area chief of staff for Banfield Pet Hospital, is one of many veterinary care professionals who volunteered at the clinic last week. She expressed appreciation for the opportunity to make a difference in the lives of animals.
APF volunteers welcome dogs and their owners to the outdoor veterinary clinic.
“Today, we’re doing distemper, rabies and microchips, and we’re providing flea and tick prevention as well. We’re also doing some routine, basic wellness care for things like ear infections and skin infections,” Oke said. “All pets need proper care. This is a great opportunity for Banfield to step in and provide services to pets in need, to make sure they are getting the care they require.”
Pet owners waiting outside the clinic expressed appreciation for the volunteers’ efforts. Victoria Cernik brought her 1-year-old shepherd-collie mix named Kaya to the clinic. Cernik said Kaya is training to become a service dog under the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA), which can be an expensive process. By visiting the clinic, Cernik was able to get Kaya her required shots without adding to the financial strain of owning a service animal.
“Between medical bills and vet bills and rent, everything’s just so expensive that this is a huge help, especially for anyone with a low budget,” Cernik said. “We’ve got such expensive rents and food bills. Just feeding these guys can get tough, but they’re family. And for Kaya, she’s medical equipment. That’s even more important.”
Lisa Smith and her dog Sapphire smile after receiving free veterinary services at the clinic.
Lisella said APF will continue to support pet owners in Schenectady and across the Capital Region. The next APF clinic will exclusively serve cats and is planned for Aug. 5 at Lincoln Elementary School in Scotia from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m.
“We believe every person loves their animal the same, whether they’re struggling financially or the wealthiest people in the region,” Lisella said. “Our real impact is making sure that the animals have the basic care that sets them on a path for a healthy future.”
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