Banfield Foundation® Makes $45,000 Grant To AVMA In Support Of "Reaching UP" New Mexico Program

The Banfield Foundation provided a commitment of $45,000 to fund the first beneficiary of the pilot grant program, 2016 Reaching UP, New Mexico, which will provide veterinary care to traditionally underserved Native American populations in New Mexico throughout the year. In addition to the grant provided by the Banfield Foundation, Banfield Pet Hospital associates will participate in the program as volunteers alongside other AVMA veterinarians.

"The Banfield Foundation is proud to partner with the AVMA to support the 2016 Reaching UP New Mexico program," said Lilisa Hall, Executive Director of the Banfield Foundation. "As an organization dedicated to animal welfare, education and elevating the pet-human bond, we believe that efforts to improve access to veterinary care in underserved areas are incredibly important to pets, pet owners and local communities."

Minimal access to veterinary care has led to an overpopulation of dogs which in turn harms animal health and welfare, public health, and the human animal bond. 

"Working through Reaching UP, AVMA member veterinarians make multiple trips to the same area at strategic times, ensuring that we spay and neuter a sufficient number of animals to achieve population management goals while preserving a high standard of care," explained Dr. Kendall Houlihan, AVMA Assistant Director, Animal Welfare Division.

By talking with the pet owners about their animals' health and the importance of preventive care, the veterinary volunteers also provide community education about the importance of pet wellness care, as well as the connections between animal health and human health.

"The program serves as a reminder of what drives so many veterinarians to enter the profession: the opportunity to improve the health and welfare of animals and people," said Dr. Joseph Kinnarney, AVMA president. "While volunteerism is at the heart of the program, it is only truly possible through the generous donation of the Banfield Foundation."

AVMA's Pilot Grant Program accepts support from a variety of funders including corporate, private and public foundations. One hundred percent of the funds are directed to support the research, development, implementation and measurement of AVMA identified initiatives.

Be inspired by the stories of veterinarians who have participated in Reaching UP.
Dr. Tolani Francisco
Dr. Nellie Goetz

For more information, or to schedule an interview, contact Sharon Granskog, AVMA assistant director, media relations, at 847-285-6619 (office), 847-280-1273 (cell), or [email protected].

Learn more about the Banfield Foundation by visiting BanfieldFoundation.org or following the foundation at Facebook.com/BanfieldFoundation.

About the AVMA
The AVMA, founded in 1863, is one of the oldest and largest veterinary medical organizations in the world. More than 88,000 member veterinarians worldwide are engaged in a wide variety of professional activities. Visit www.avma.org for more information.

About the Banfield Foundation^®
Founded in 2015 by Banfield Pet Hospital^®, the Banfield Foundation^® is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization committed to improving the well-being of pets and communities. Our mission is to elevate the power of the human-animal bond, strengthen the pet welfare community, provide disaster relief for pets and advance the science of veterinary medicine through fostering innovation and education. We also offer support for emergency and preventive veterinary care and provide grants to pet-related nonprofit organizations in order keep pets healthy and in loving homes. For more information visit BanfieldFoundation.org or follow us at Facebook.com/BanfieldFoundation.

Photo - http://photos.prnewswire.com/prnh/20160413/355100

SOURCE American Veterinary Medical Association