Breaking Barriers to Veterinary Care in Underserved Communities
At Wichita Animal Action League (WAAL), we believe that every pet deserves access to compassionate, high-quality veterinary care. Unfortunately, many families face significant barriers—financial, geographical, and systemic—that prevent them from accessing even basic services like vaccinations, spay/neuter procedures, and annual exams.
That’s why we’ve launched the Animal Care Collective, a new initiative aimed at bridging the gap between pet owners and the veterinary care their beloved animals need.
Our Mission
With the support of a generous $50,000 grant from PetSmart Charities®, the Animal Care Collective is dedicated to serving the Hilltop community, where many families have been left out of traditional veterinary care systems. By partnering with local changemakers and understanding the unique challenges of the community, we are building sustainable, culturally relevant solutions to ensure no pet is left behind.
Why This Matters
More than 70% of American households consider their pets family, but nearly 1 in 3 face challenges in accessing veterinary care. The Animal Care Collective addresses these gaps by providing:
- Affordable preventative care, including vaccinations and spay/neuter services.
- Transportation to and from veterinary appointments for families in need.
- Tailored education and resources to help pet owners care for their animals at home.
Impact in Action: Paul & Gracie’s Story
Paul and his dog, Gracie, are well-loved members of the Hilltop community. When Gracie developed sores on her body and discharge in her ears, Paul was unable to afford veterinary care due to his disability and lack of transportation. Despite his best efforts to help Gracie at home, her condition worsened.
Thanks to the Animal Care Collective, Paul’s case manager connected him to our team during a community event. We provided transportation for Gracie’s veterinary appointments, secured the care she needed, and even created a step-by-step video for Paul to learn how to administer her daily medications. Now, with ongoing support, Gracie is on the mend and can continue to brighten Paul’s life for years to come.
How We’re Making a Difference
Through the Animal Care Collective, we’re not just addressing immediate needs—we’re building long-term relationships with the Hilltop community. This initiative enables us to work alongside local families, case managers, and neighborhood advocates to create a foundation of care that lasts.
Get Involved
Want to support the Animal Care Collective? Here’s how you can help:
- Donate: Your contributions allow us to expand access to life-saving veterinary care. [Make a donation here.]
- Volunteer: Join us in providing hands-on support at community events and clinics. [Sign up to volunteer.]
- Spread the Word: Share our mission with friends and family to help more pets and families in need.
Together, we can ensure that every pet receives the care they deserve. For more information about the Animal Care Collective, contact us at [email protected] or (316)285-4988.
