$200K Grant Awarded To East Bay SPCA By PetSmart Charities

OAKLAND — The East Bay SPCA has received a $200,000 multi-year grant from PetSmart Charities, a sum the local non-profit calls "transformative."

The money will be used to provide veterinary care to local pets.

According to PetSmart Charities, 50 million pets in the U.S. currently lack access to even basic veterinary care. While approximately 70 percent of households have pets, the rising cost of veterinary care has put a strain on budgets. Also, some pet owners are having trouble finding vets that accept new patients.

The grant will cover services such as spay/neuter procedures, vaccinations, and critical medical and preventative care.

The East Bay SPCA plans to introduce telemedicine services, focus on veterinarian recruitment, and enhance ultrasound services.

"With deep appreciation for the PetSmart Charities grant, East Bay SPCA is embarking on a transformative journey. This endeavor extends beyond the scope of providing veterinary care," said Allison Lindquist, President/CEO at East Bay SPCA.

"This initiative is a commitment to building a healthier and more connected community. The grant will allow us to expand our services, so more pet owners in our region can access affordable and high-quality veterinary care. We believe that by making veterinary care more accessible to more residents, we are contributing to the overall well-being of our community and fostering a deep bond between pets and their owners."

PetSmart Charities reports that people overwhelmingly consider their pets an integral part of the family, making a significant impact on the health and wellness of their owners.

"Our veterinary system is in crisis," said Kate Atema, director of community grants and initiatives at PetSmart Charities. "Rising costs are putting standard veterinary care out of reach for as much as 50 percent of pet-owning families. We need innovative solutions that make veterinary care affordable for the families in every community who want the best for their four-legged companions but struggle to meet the cost of vet care. We’re inspired by the incredible work East Bay SPCA is doing to create solutions that will build strong families and a healthy community."

The East Bay SPCA is celebrating 150 years in the community in 2024, making it one of the oldest animal shelters in the nation.