Dakin's Pet Health Center Becoming a Reality

The excitement is building this summer as Dakin readies its long-awaited Pet Health Center (PHC).  The construction and outfitting of the PHC are underway, equipment is being ordered, and we’re getting ready to open later this summer.

The Pet Health Center is becoming a reality thanks to a generous lead gift of $250,000 from the John T. and Jane A. Wiederhold Foundation to cover a portion of the start-up costs. Additional fundraising will be essential to help open the PHC, which will offer veterinary care and non-emergency services for cats and dogs.

We believe all pets and their families deserve access to veterinary care and the addition of the Pet Health Center is just one of many community-based solutions that keep pets and their people together and lessen the barriers to care they may experience. Providing care for pets, especially if illnesses are caught early, provides people with more time with the animal companions who mean so much to them.  

Public Medical and Education Director Dr. Jack Muth noted, “I am excited by our purpose to improve the health of dogs and cats by offering an additional option for veterinary care including for those who are under-resourced in the community. We will empower families by offering a spectrum of care to fit their pet’s needs.”

Statistics show that 80% of people can cover a vet bill of $400 or more over time. To aid in giving people this flexibility, the PHC will offer a variety of payment options. Doing so increases the chance of a pet getting the medical care they need and staying within the home where they can remain an integral part of the family, thereby decreasing the chance the pet will be surrendered to a shelter.

The official opening date of the PHC will be announced soon. We’ll keep everyone posted on our website and social media. Stay in the know by signing up for What's Shakin' at Dakin, our monthly eNewsletter.