Friends of PACC, the nonprofit fundraising partner of Pima Animal Care Center (PACC), has taken a significant step towards addressing the growing need for affordable veterinary care in the community. The organization recently purchased a former veterinary office on North 1st Avenue, with plans to transform it into a nonprofit, low-cost animal care clinic.

The new Community Pet Clinic will serve multiple groups in need: anyone who has adopted an animal from PACC, individuals receiving government assistance who require spay and neuter services, and families receiving support through PACC’s Pet Support Center. According to Torre Chisholm, executive director of Friends of PACC, financial assistance will also be available to those who qualify, ensuring that cost is not a barrier to essential veterinary care.

“Both the lack of access and the rising cost of veterinary care have been significant factors contributing to the overpopulation problems at PACC,” Chisholm explained. Despite existing outreach programs aimed at helping vulnerable families care for their pets, Chisholm noted that about 30 percent of the animals surrendered to PACC are given up because their owners could not afford or access necessary veterinary care.

PACC is currently facing a capacity crisis, largely due to an influx of surrendered animals. In a press release issued in July, PACC Director Monica Dangler emphasized the urgent need for solutions to prevent these situations from becoming emergencies.

“This is the next step in our evolution to try to address the problem before they end up as emergency situations at Pima Animal Care Center,” Chisholm said, highlighting the clinic’s role in proactive animal care.

The property at 2661 N. 1st Ave., previously home to VCA Animal Medical Center of Tucson, was acquired for just over $1.2 million. Friends of PACC will own the property and lease it to PACC, allowing for a seamless transition into its new role as a community clinic. Since the building was already equipped as a veterinary office, Chisholm expects the clinic to open by the end of the year or early next year.

The clinic will be under the medical direction of local veterinarian Erin O'Donnell and is expected to offer up to 12,000 appointments annually, significantly increasing access to affordable veterinary care in the community.