Rhode Island veterinary assistance program celebrates 20 years and $1 million donated
PROVIDENCE, R.I. (WLNE) — The Rhode Island Veterinary Medical Association (RIVMA) and its Companion Animal Foundation (CAF) is celebrating its 20th anniversary with over $1 million in aid given to Ocean State pet owners.
The CAF was established in 2004 to help low-income pet owners cover the cost of routine health care, vaccines and illness and injury treatment.
“In those early days, I don’t know that any of us envisioned the Companion Animal Foundation reaching this level of impact, but I can say every single person involved over these two decades cares deeply about the welfare of animals,” says Dr. Cathy Lund, the architect behind CAF, the founder of City Kitty Veterinary Care for Cats.
“None of the care provided to what has been thousands of pets would have been possible without the generous support of our community. It’s an incredibly powerful thing to consider.”
The CAF was founded by Dr. Lund, along with Dr. Gary Block, Dr. Courtney Rebensdorf, Dr. Hank Wietsma, Jim DeRentis, Wayne Kezirian and Randy Kass.
The CAF runs a voucher program for eligible pet owners worth $125 toward care with a participating veterinarian.
More than 40 veterinary practices in Rhode Island participate in the CAF.
For more information on the CAF you can visit this website.
