In a strong community, neighbors support one another—and this compassion extends to animals, as well.
At Asteri Ithaca, where pets provide companionship and vital comfort to many residents, a recent event exemplified what it means to support the whole household, furry friends included.
Residents had the opportunity for their emotional support animals to receive free health services during a dedicated care event held on-site June 13th. It was made possible through a partnership between Cornell University College of Veterinary Medicine’s Maddie’sÒ Shelter Medicine Program (MSMP), the SPCA of Tompkins County, Tompkins Community Action (TC Action) and the Vecino Group.
“We’re really excited to be able to support the community in this way,” said Jessica Reed, Associate Clinical Professor and Janet L. Swanson Director Maddie’s Shelter Medicine Program at Cornell University College of Veterinary Medicine. “Not only are our veterinary students getting real-world training and experience, they are also helping to educate and advise community members about health of and behavioral care for their animal companions.”
The afternoon event welcomed residents and their pets to the community room where each participant checked in. Any pet not previously registered was initially documented, and their owners received follow-up forms to complete the licensing process. Any pet registration was provided free of charge through a grant secured by the Vecino Group. After check-in, residents moved through a series of pet wellness stations offering basic health exams, core vaccinations, microchipping, parasite preventatives and pet food. Additionally, residents had the opportunity to sign their pets up for subsidized spay/neuter services. These services were provided at no cost to residents courtesy of the Tompkins County SPCA. Upon completion, residents and their animals exited via the building’s outdoor patio, ensuring a smooth and private flow throughout the process, also receiving pet food and supplies.
“This event reflects our continued commitment to the health and well-being of all Asteri residents—including their support animals,” said a Vecino Group Director of Supportive Services Heather Bradley-Geary. “Led by the SPCA, MSMP, and TC Action, it was a community-driven effort that brought together critical resources to meet an important need.”
Christopher, an Asteri resident who brought his canine companion, shared, “My dog means everything to me, and getting him the care he needed without worrying about the cost was such a relief. I’m grateful to everyone who helped make this happen.”
Since opening last year in downtown Ithaca, Asteri has provided 181 affordable homes, with forty units reserved for individuals receiving supportive services administered locally by Tompkins Community Action, Inc.
The event served 26 households, including 18 dogs and 11 cats. Additionally, five households benefited from pet food donations, receiving supplies to help support the daily care of their animals. Spirits were high, for both the four-and two-legged attendees.
“Seeing how happy this made the residents as well as their animals—and being able to help improve the lives of both—today truly was a success for everyone” said Jim Bouderau, Director of the SPCA of Tompkins County.
To learn more about animal care in Tompkins County and how you can help to support it, visit the Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals at www.spcaonline.com and Maddie’s Shelter Medicine Program at www.vet.cornell.edu/hospitals/maddiesr-shelter-medicine-program
