Blog | Healthy Pets, Thriving Communities: HBSPCA Brings Vital Veterinary Services Straight to Local Neighbourhoods

The Hamilton/Burlington SPCA

May 5, 2025 Hamilton, ON – Every pet deserves access to medical care. That’s the driving belief behind the Hamilton/Burlington Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (HBSPCA)’s Pet Health Outreach Clinic—a mobile outreach initiative that’s hitting the road this May, to bring essential veterinary services directly to pets in need.

Throughout May, the mobile clinic will be stationed at various community centres across the Hamilton area each week. Launched as part of the HBSPCA’s Pet Health Outreach program and ongoing commitment to preventive care, the mobile clinic offers physical exams, core vaccinations, flea and tick treatments, deworming, and more. Pet owners, including Burlington residents, can go online at www.hbspca.com to book a date and time at a Hamilton location convenient to them to access these services.

It’s all part of the organization’s larger goal: to make affordable veterinary services accessible to every cat and dog. It’s also a lifeline for families who face barriers to traditional vet clinics due to transportation, cost, mobility challenges and inflexible work hours, and more.

“Many of the animals we meet through this program wouldn’t receive care otherwise,” said John Gerrard, President and CEO of the HBSPCA. “We believe every pet deserves to be healthy and comfortable and that starts with meeting people where they are—with compassion, dignity and understanding.”

Powered by a passionate team of veterinary professionals and volunteers who treat every animal with respect and care, the mobile clinic is a unique and special experience. Just last month, a senior dog named Rosie—who hadn’t seen a vet in years—was treated for a painful ear infection and sent home with medication and a wagging tail.

“These small moments are huge victories,” said Michelle Macnab, Director of Community Veterinary Services. “You see a dog in pain get relief, a family breathe a sigh of relief—it reminds us why this work matters.”

In 2024, the HBSPCA’s Pet Health Clinic served more than 1,300 pets belonging to community members. So far this year, it has supported just over 800 owned pets. With community support, that number will continue to grow. Members of the public who want to make a difference can volunteer their time, sponsor a pet health clinic and directly support affordable veterinary care for local dogs and cats. Sponsoring is simple: just visit www.hbspca.com to help fund services that change lives—one exam, one vaccine, one tail wag or furry rub at a time.

“Our vision is a community where every furry family member has access to the care they need to live a happy, healthy life,” said Gerrard. “With every donation we receive, we’re able to host more clinics, enabling us to come out directly into the community and make a difference.”

To view clinic locations, book an appointment or sponsor a pet health clinic, click: HBSPCA Pet Health Outreach Program.

For more information about the Hamilton/Burlington SPCA, visit: www.hbspca.com.

About the Hamilton/Burlington SPCA

The Hamilton/Burlington SPCA is always Pet First. Since 1887, we have advanced the humane treatment of animals through innovative education, services, and partnerships. Our programs support over one million animal interactions annually, providing vital resources that ensure the well-being of animals and the families who care for them. We take care of animals because they take care of us. Join us at www.hbspca.com.