Initiative Aims to Strengthen Bonds Between People and Their Pets

A new non-profit veterinary clinic is set to launch in Tucson, Arizona, with the primary objective of alleviating the financial burdens that pet owners often face during critical veterinary emergencies. Operated by the non-profit organization Friends of PACC, this initiative aims to support families in keeping their pets during times of financial strain, thus reducing the number of animals surrendered to the Pima Animal Care Center (PACC).

Gary Zimnoch, a seasoned veterinary executive with extensive experience in managing animal care facilities, is spearheading this clinic after coming out of retirement. Zimnoch’s decision to re-engage in the veterinary field underscores his commitment to improving animal welfare in the community. He noted that exorbitant veterinary expenses can exceed ,000 for serious interventions, such as treating injuries from accidents or bites from venomous snakes. This financial strain frequently compels families to relinquish their pets, resulting in emotional distress for the owners and additional challenges for local shelters tasked with the care of surrendered animals.

The forthcoming Community Pet Clinic aims to mitigate these issues by providing essential care at reduced or no cost, tailored to the financial capacities of the pet owners. “Our mission is to save pets and treat those that would normally end up surrendered at PACC, thereby keeping families together,” Zimnoch stated.

This clinic is designed to be a compassionate alternative rather than a competitor to local for-profit veterinary services. Zimnoch emphasized that it will serve as a vital resource for families who currently lack viable options for veterinary care. According to a press release from Friends of PACC, the clinic will initially be accessible to families who adopted pets from PACC after January 1, 2025, as well as recipients of aid from PACC’s Pet Support Center and families receiving public assistance requiring spay and neuter services.

Statistically, a significant 30 percent of families who surrender their pets cite the high cost of veterinary care as a primary reason for their decision. The Community Pet Clinic intends to bridge this gap, offering a constructive solution for pet owners overwhelmed by unforeseen veterinary expenses.

When a pet is brought to the clinic, an invoice is generated, but payment may not be mandatory. Since the clinic operates as a non-profit, it can offer lower operational costs, with additional funding potentially sourced from community donations. This unique financial model aims to ensure that no family has to choose between their pet’s well-being and their financial stability.

A formal grand opening ceremony and open house is planned for April, marking an important milestone in Tucson’s commitment to enhancing pet welfare and supporting the community’s animal owners.