Principal Investigator: Brian Collins

Co-PI: Patrick Carney

DESCRIPTION (provided by applicant): 

Shelter Outreach Services (SOS) is a non-profit organization founded in 2003 to provide MASH-style high quality high volume spay neuter (HQHVSN), vaccination, and other services to under-resourced populations of cats and dogs in the Finger Lakes region of New York. SOS has been a model for similar programs throughout the country and now provides services for approximately 12,000 cats and dogs annually. The vast majority of these animals have not received prior veterinary care. The animals come from various populations including shelter animals and barn cats, but most are family pets. In 2009 a formal collaboration between Cornell and SOS was established to develop a teaching program for fourth year veterinary students. Since the program's inception, each student has spent a day working at an SOS clinic practicing surgical and other clinical skills while experiencing a program that addresses the need for accessible care. SOS provides much of the supplies needed for the program while others are covered by Cornell University, and others through awards. We are asking for funds to cover the expenses related to providing these services as well as equipment to help ensure patient safety during the surgical procedures.