Photo: Ford, Brad
Oregon Humane Society Salem Campus is launching a historic project that expands the on-site veterinary clinic and includes a digital radiology suite and an additional exam room. These new spaces will provide x-ray and dentistry care to thousands of shelter pets each year.
Planning for the project began soon after Oregon Humane Society merged with Willamette Humane Society in July 2022 and addresses a critical gap in care. Currently, if an animal needs an x-ray to diagnose a broken bone or other ailment, they must be transported to the hospital at OHS Portland Campus. This delays treatment time and causes unnecessary stress to a pet who may already be in pain.
In 2023, more than 40 shelter pets were transported from Salem to the Portland campus for x-rays. This includes Clarence, an 8-month-old cat who arrived at OHS Salem with a large open wound and suspected hip fracture. A dedicated OHS volunteer transported Clarence to OHS Portland Campus where the extent of his injuries was fully diagnosed, and he received lifesaving surgery.
“We have an incredible medical team in Salem, but without the proper diagnostic tools our work has been limited,” says Dr. Sara Livesay, OHS Salem lead veterinarian. “Soon, we will be able to care for more shelter pets and get them the critical medical care they need.”
The Digital Radiology Project is the largest expansion of medical services at OHS Salem Campus since the Spay & Neuter Clinic opened in 2010. Each year, thousands of shelter animals, owned pets, and community cats receive surgery and other care at the clinic.
To date, generous members of the Salem community have contributed close to $550,000 for the Digital Radiology Project, which is expected to cost more than $700,000. More information about how to contribute to the project can be found at https://www.oregonhumane.org/salem-radiology/
Source: Oregon Humane Society