Call it puppy love — and cat love.
A new community veterinary medicine clinic opened on Tuesday in Queens providing free healthcare to furry friends who live in some of the borough’s underserved communities.
The American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (ASPCA) celebrated the grand opening of its third Community Veterinary Clinic in NYC. The clinic, located in Long Island City, will provide access to “affordable veterinary services” for thousands of pet owners each year for their cats and dogs.
Other ASPCA clinics are located in the Bronx and Brooklyn. There is also a location in Miami.
Pet care has not been immune to the rising cost of living in NYC. A routine exam for a cat or dog in the Big Apple can be close to $100.
“The need for affordable veterinary care is at an all-time high, and for many pet owners, keeping their beloved pets healthy can be a challenge, which puts stress not just on the animals, but on owners, families, and entire neighborhoods because everyone is impacted when a vital family need is unmet,” said Matt Bershadker, ASPCA president & CEO.
The new clinic offers some relief for cat and dog parents because basic veterinary care services, including physical exams, vaccines, in-house diagnostics, and some medications, are provided at no cost to pet parents.
“The new ASPCA Community Veterinary Clinic in Queens is one example of how we are working to help meet that need by intentionally embedding ourselves in communities where access to basic veterinary care is most needed. The lessons we learn from our community-based work in New York City will strengthen our clinics here and shape our current efforts to improve veterinary care access in Los Angeles, Miami and beyond.”
Staff said there may be fees for some services, like flea and tick medication, after the first complimentary dose, but that would be discussed during the pet’s visit.
The ASPCA chose the location of the new clinic based on the lack of affordable vet care in the neighborhood. Three NYC Housing Authority (NYCHA) developments are in the area, housing 6,000 units, many of which are home to families with pets.
The new clinic is located at 36-02 14th St. and is open Monday through Friday, 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Services are provided by appointment only.
Pet owners must provide proof of public assistance and live in one of three zip codes surrounding the clinic, 11101, 11102 or 11106, to utilize the services.
A gift from The Rachael Ray Foundation and other donations financially support the clinic.
For more information, visit aspca.org.
