TVMF PALS Continues to Make a Difference for Homebound Community Members

Did you know that approximately 50% of Meals on Wheels (MOW) clients live alone? For many homebound clients, their pets are their primary companions, providing them with unconditional love and support. However, many MOW clients are unable to afford regular veterinary care for their pets. Through the TVMF PALS program, the Texas Veterinary Medical Foundation (TVMF) is partnering with MOW to provide veterinary care free of charge to these pets, like Pocket and Mojo, ensuring they will remain happy, healthy and in their homes for as long as possible.

Ms. Brown has been a Meals on Wheels Central Texas (MOWCTX) client since 2008. She has always loved animals of all kinds and has had a variety of pets in the past, including cats, hamsters and a guinea pig named Forrest Gump. Ms. Brown’s Papillons Mojo and Pocket are the light of her life. They started receiving MOWCT PALS (Pets Assisting the Lives of Seniors) services in 2010 when Ms. Brown adopted them. She receives a monthly supply of dog food for them, as well as annual veterinary care through the TVMF PALS program. In 2016, both Pocket and Mojo had much needed dental cleanings at North Austin Animal Hospital, the TVMF partner veterinary clinic that also provides their annual care. As you can see from the photo, they are a happy little family!

The TVMF PALS program is making a difference for community members like Ms. Brown, Pocket and Mojo. However, despite our efforts, many homebound community members are at risk of losing their beloved animal companions, and these animals are in danger of landing in local shelters. With your help, we can better serve our neighbors and their animal family members. Please consider lending your support today. Every gift has impact. Every gift is helping to change lives.

Thanks to all of our corporate and community partners who help make this program possible: Antech, IDEXX, Merial, Carl C. Anderson Sr. and Marie Jo Anderson Foundation, On Shore Foundation, Donald D. Hammill Foundation, Austin Community Foundation, James A. “Buddy” Davidson Charitable Foundation and the Dr. Scholl Foundation.