Making a Paw-sitive Impact

Making A Paw-sitive Impact 

Marissa Robertson | Western University of Health Sciences, DVM Class of 2023

I – like most vet students – got into veterinary medicine because I am passionate about helping animals.  Over the past few years, I have become increasingly aware of the need for accessible veterinary care.  There are significant gaps in services throughout our country, and many communities have pets that they love dearly but can’t afford to take them to the vet for basic care.  Ever since I was an undergrad, I have continually sought out opportunities to volunteer at events that help provide much needed veterinary care to underserved communities.  When I began vet school, that goal didn’t change, and an amazing opportunity fell into my lap – or, rather, into my inbox. 

One afternoon I was shuffling through the seemingly endless number of emails in my inbox when I came across a call for volunteers.  The SCVMA was partnering with Downtown Dog Rescue to host a free clinic in an underserved community in Los Angeles.  I immediately signed up, but little did I know that I was signing up to be part of such an amazing team of people.  In the fall of 2019, as a timid first-year veterinary student, I attended my first Community Clinic event.  Owners lined up around the block with all of their pets in tow.  The clinic provided free vaccines, deworming medication, flea prevention, microchipping, grooming services, and even spay and neuter surgeries.  Additionally, the team of volunteers took the opportunity to connect with and educate the clients.  I was astounded at the number of pets we were able to provide care for, and by the end of the day I was filled with joy knowing we made a difference in that community.  Since that day, I have continued to volunteer every month at their clinic. 

But then, the pandemic happened.  In the early spring of 2020, the group had to stop its monthly clinics, and we all watched as the world slowly closed itself up.  I knew that most eveterinary businesses were still open, so every month I eagerly checked my emails to see if somehow Downtown Dog Rescue had come up with a pandemic protocol that would allow us to get back to doing what we loved – helping pets in communities in need. The months dragged on, summer came and went, online school began, and I started to lose hope.  Now more than ever I wanted a chance to be out in the field, working hands-on with animals, and helping owners who were now likely ever more economically challenged in light of the burdens of the pandemic.  And then finally they email came!  SCVMA and Downtown Dog Rescue would be hosting their first ever socially distant, drive-up free clinic.  I was thrilled!  In September of 2020, I volunteered at my first drive up clinic.  Now, owners can drive up and remain in their cars as we retrieve their pets and administer the necessary care.  We are still able to provide owners with great service and education, just socially distant. 

Volunteering at the SCVMA/Downtown Dog Rescue Community Clinics has been one of the most rewarding experiences in my vet school career.  I have learned so much while working with such an amazing group of veterinarians, vet techs, students, and other community members.  Additionally, I have made great connections and friendships.  It makes me very happy to know that I am part of a team that is making a difference by providing accessible veterinary care.  I plan to continue volunteering duing my third and fourth year, and hope to be able to come back an volunteer with them one I am a liscenced veterinarian! 

If you live near Los Angeles, California and are interested in volunteering at these monthly free clinics, please reach out to SCVMAGIVESBACK@scvma.org for more information!