Hurricane Harvey Veterinary Relief Efforts – First Of Many

Dr Lamere is one of our vets going to volunteer and help pets and animals in need, we are so proud to have such a wonderful heart and talent on our team.

I feel pulled toward helping the animals in every catastrophe like this, but this event is more personal for me. I used to spend every summer in Houston visiting my grandparents on both sides. My parents grew up there. My roots are there. I think it’s impossible for me to go about my daily life without doing something tangible to help in this case, so I’m making it happen. It’s not just the scale of this event that’s driving me, but also my personal ties to Texas. Texas and I don’t always see eye to eye, but growing up there still made me who I am today, and I will not turn my back on the people and animals of this great state now. They are in dire need of veterinarians, not just to treat the rescued animals, but to help maintain the health and safety of those that have come in to the (human) shelters with their owners in the aftermath of this crisis. A range of non-profits, aid groups, veterinary schools, and independent veterinarians are coming together to help the animals. They need all the help they can get because of the scale of this catastrophe, so I’m stepping up to do my part.

 

 

For packing:

We don’t really know yet what to expect, so I’m bringing a range of supplies. Dr. Eick, a local veterinarian in Houston, is coordinating veterinarians at the convention center and NRG stadium where people are housed. She said that they just got a shipment of veterinary supplies in, so they are well stocked for the time being, other than really needing oral Cerenia. However, I’m planning on bringing antibiotics, anti-nausea medications, anti-parasitics, etc. It isn’t supposed to begin raining again until Tuesday, which is the day we leave, but we’re bringing some camping supplies just in case things don’t go according to plan. We have water bottles capable of filtering water, and we’re bringing enough non-perishable food to last us because the grocery stores are really difficult to get into right now. We’re also bringing portable rain coats, etc.

People can donate directly to the group I’m working with here:

https://www.harveyvolunteervets.com/

And my own gofundme to help pay for this unscheduled trip is located here:

https://www.gofundme.com/harvey-veterinary-relief

Dr. Benson started Paws into Grace in 2007. She wanted to give pets and their parents a beautiful last encounter that didn't have to be in an unfamiliar office where pets were often frightened. The empathy she shows each family creates a lasting impression on them. In her free time, Dr. Benson enjoys running and spending time with her family, dogs, cats, and chickens.

  

Testimonials

I can't recommend them enough. I had to say goodbye to my 21 year old cat companion. I read the reviews here on Yelp and chose Paws Into Grace and they made an unbearable situation not worse - from the people on the phone to the amazing doctor who... read more

Renee C.

My absolute love Dante had heart failure three months ago. After having him on many medications to help him, his enthusiasm and appetite declined last couple of days. He was in pain and we decided to help him go to heaven rather than torturing him... read more

Diane C.

I wanted to thank you for sending Dr. Brown to euthanize our beloved Myleigh on March 4, 2021. She was compassionate and accommodating, she explained every step of the procedure, and gave us some alone time with Myleigh after she sedated her, but... read more

Terry A.

Renee C.

I can't recommend them enough. I had to say goodbye to my 21 year old cat companion. I read the reviews here on Yelp and chose Paws Into Grace and they made an unbearable situation not worse - from the people on the phone to the amazing doctor who came out to the house. She was so understanding and supportive. They were all so helpful, understanding and nice. My girl got to stay at home and say goodbye in the backyard (a hummingbird flew over and it seemed like a good sign too). So glad I didn't have to take her to a cold vet office.

Diane C.

My absolute love Dante had heart failure three months ago. After having him on many medications to help him, his enthusiasm and appetite declined last couple of days. He was in pain and we decided to help him go to heaven rather than torturing him with more medications which would make him even more miserable. I called and spoke to a very kind lady who was patient as I cried through making an appointment. We made an appointment for 1:30pm. Dr. Toni arrived. She was very kind, explained everything to us and gave us the time to be with our boy after the first shot. He wasn't relaxing enough so she gave him a second shot. We stayed with him throughout the entire process and I carried him to her car in the end. It was a very difficult decision but knowing that our boy is not in pain, gives us some peace. We are thankful to Dr. Toni for her kindness and compassion. They will arrange the cremation for us. Since we are in a pandemic, we had our masks on and said goodbye to our boy in our garden.

Terry A.

I wanted to thank you for sending Dr. Brown to euthanize our beloved Myleigh on March 4, 2021. She was compassionate and accommodating, she explained every step of the procedure, and gave us some alone time with Myleigh after she sedated her, but before she attached the IV. We were relieved that we made the decision to let her go to doggy heaven at home. It was a tranquil and serene passing for her, and it very much aids us in the grieving and healing process knowing that she passed away so peacefully. Based on the grace and compassion Dr. Brown demonstrated on one of the most awful days of our lives we would not hesitate to recommend Paws Into Grace for others facing this very painful time.
San Diego Orange County Cremation Office