animal care

PetSmart Charities of Canada (PSCC) is providing $200,000 in funding to help the SPCA expand access to veterinary care across Nova Scotia.

According to a study by the charity, about 50% of pet owners report skipping vet visits, primarily due to cost. PSCC president Aimee Gilbreath says when that happens, “small medical issues can become serious and far more expensive.”

Half of the funding will be used to hire additional staff at SPCA clinics, increasing appointment availability and allowing more pets to be seen. The remaining funds will support education at the SPCA’s College of Animal Welfare in Dartmouth, helping train students with a focus on accessible and affordable care.

SPCA College vice-president Marni Tuttle says, “the grant funding will allow for the adaptation of both the Veterinary Technician and Veterinary Assistant curriculum to include access to care, embedding the principles into all courses.”

According to the charity, a portion of the money donated at checkout registers inside PetSmart stores is a leading funder of animal welfare in Canada, adding customers have helped them grant more than $40 million since being established in 1999.