Community Engagement

Richard Lichter Charity for Dogs

In 2015, a generous gift from the Richard Lichter Charity for Dogs began to help save the lives of shelter dogs in need of specialized care. The program provides care for shelter dogs that might not otherwise be able to be treated. Applications are approved through the shelter medicine service by official shelter medicine partnerships.

Since its inception, more than 300 shelter animals have received over $1,150,000 worth of care facilitated directly by the Penn Vet Shelter Medicine Program. Cases have included orthopedic injury, stab wounds, pneumonia, parvovirus, and rodenticide poisoning. This program also helps facilitate positive relationships between shelters and the tertiary care hospital.

“I am delighted with the start of the Shelter Dog Specialty Medical Treatment Project,” said Richard Lichter. “This partnership with Penn Vet, which has incredible veterinary specialists and emergency care, has enabled numerous dogs without families and without hope to have another chance at life.”

Partnerships in Caring: Pets for Life

Since 2013, Penn Vet’s Shelter Medicine Program has partnered with Pets for Life, an initiative of the Humane World for Animals that provides free spay/neuter and wellness care for pets in underserved communities. This partnership enhances the education of veterinary students while providing animals with care they need that may have been difficult for their owner to access.

Philadelphia is one of the core locations of Pets for Life and has become a model of success, assisting other communities in developing this work in pet service “deserts.”

Watch this video to learn how Penn Vet and the Pets for Life program help everyone involved, including the animals.

Regional Shelter Partnerships

Penn Vet has established formal relationships with organizations across the Philadelphia area. Organizational partnerships are central to the Penn Vet Shelter Medicine and Community Engagement Program, and our ability to have impact in the community.

Penn Vet students and faculty provide consultative services, educational programs, and/or surgical and medical care for animals in these facilities.