On Oakland Animal Services’ Facebook page, commenters aren’t shy about voicing support for community clinics and what they agree is important: connecting people with the resources they need to care for their pets. “Amazing outreach for people and pets.” “I love to see this!” “Look at these beautiful doggos and their beautiful hoomans!” “Truly beautiful effort!”
At OAS, what makes the effort beautiful and successful is that it’s coordinated, collective, and truly community-centered. Everyone from volunteer veterinarians, groomers, trainers, students, community members, human services and other local organizations, and shelter staff come together to make community clinics possible. Community Program Coordinator Donell Randolph and Dr. Jyothi Robertson (DVM, DABVP, Shelter Medicine) joined this All Call to answer questions and share some of the lessons they’ve learned in the process.
