Pima County, AZ – The Friends of Pima Animal Care Center, the philanthropic non-profit partner to Pima Animal Care Center (PACC), has announced its plans to open an affordable veterinary clinic. The Friends of PACC Community Pet Clinic will support PACC’s lifesaving efforts by filling gaps in pet care services currently accessible to vulnerable families and families adopting pets from the shelter.

“We see an opportunity to help families who are unable to access or afford care for their beloved companion animals,” said Friends of PACC Board Chair, Clark Bright, “And in doing so, we aim to help combat the ongoing overcrowding challenges at PACC.”

The Community Pet Clinic will address these challenges by providing low cost spay/neuter services for vulnerable families, affordable care options for pets adopted directly from PACC, and care for pet families receiving assistance from Friends of PACC’s Keeping Families Together program. Additionally, financial assistance will be available to those who qualify. 

Friends of PACC has acquired a veterinary facility on N 1st Ave to serve as home to the new clinic. Well respected local veterinarian and animal welfare advocate, Dr. Erin O’Donnell, has joined the project as Medical Director, along with Gary Zimnoch as the consulting Business Advisor.

“We want to provide medical care for pets who would otherwise never be seen by a veterinarian, due to the families’ financial constraints,” explained Dr. O’Donnell, “So many pets that are relinquished to PACC have families who love them, and just need help getting medical care for them.”

The Friends of PACC Community Pet Clinic plans to accommodate up to 12,000 appointments per year and eliminate the barriers that keep families from seeking care, including cost, language, and restrictive hours. 

“Friends of PACC exists to support PACC and save animal lives. With this project, we can accomplish both goals by tackling one of the biggest barriers to lifesaving. Thank you to the donors and supporters who empower us to implement such transformational projects,” added Torre Chisholm, Friends of PACC Executive Director.

Friends of PACC is projecting a grand opening in late 2024 or early 2025.

The Clinic will be supported by community donations and involvement. Financial donations are welcome via www.friendsofpacc.org or the link below. Equipment and supply donations can be made through the Friends of PACC Amazon wish list. Opportunities for volunteering at the Clinic will be announced closer to the opening date.