Name
Building a Community-Based System of Care to Decrease Shelter Intake
Date & Time
Friday, April 10, 2026, 11:20 AM - 11:45 AM
Description
The overpopulation of shelters is a persistent issue, often fueled by limited access to veterinary care in communities facing disproportionate health and social barriers. Preventive care, including vaccinations, spay/neuter services, and wellness check-ups, plays a critical role in reducing shelter intake. Our multi-pronged system of care, designed to meet clients where they are, focuses on building trust through community partnerships and providing ongoing, accessible services. A key element of our success lies in the representation within our team and the relationships we cultivate within the communities we serve. We recognize the disproportionate representation of certain communities in veterinary care and are committed to addressing this gap through programs like our Community Medicine Education Training program (CoMET) and our Community Ambassador program. These programs create diversified pipelines into the profession by providing opportunities for individuals from at-promise communities to gain hands-on experience and mentorship. This helps us build stronger relationships with the community and creates a more inclusive and equitable workforce that reflects the diverse populations we serve.
Location Name
Marina I
Full Address
Westin Boston Seaport District
425 Summer Street
Boston, MA 02210
United States