When Hercules, a brindle pit bull mix, saw Dr. Ann Pearson, veterinarian with Reata Veterinary Hospital, he was overheated from the blazing sun, but otherwise in good health. Dr. Pearson cooled the puppy down with water and a cooling cloth while his person petted him and loved on him before giving his vaccinations.

Dr. Pearson was part of an outreach to provide veterinary services for animals living at a homeless encampment along the Golf Links corridor. The outreach was coordinated by TC-3, a collaboration between Tucson Medical Center and Tucson Fire Department that connects people with resources they need so they do not have to rely on the emergency system for all of their health needs.

During community interactions, it was found that many people will put their own medical needs on hold so they can care for their pets. Thanks to a grant from PetSmart Charities, TC-3 and its community partners are able to help with that.

“Wednesday’s outreach is a good example of the impact this grant can have on people and animals who need it most,” said Maya Luria, director of Community Partnerships & Outreach for TMC. “In addition to vaccinations and checkups from Reata Veterinary Hospital, TC-3 was able to provide dog food, treats, leashes, collars, booties and water bowls for the dogs. We are so thankful to PetSmart Charities for enabling us to reach out to people in such a meaningful way.”

Dr. Pearson and her staff provided check-ups and vaccinations for 14 dogs and one cat. This was all made possible by the PetSmart grant.

TC-3 also provided snacks, water, Gatorade, Narcan, socks, hygiene supplies and first aid supplies to individuals at the camp.

Additionally, representatives from TC-3 (Tucson Collaborative Community Care), Tucson Medical Center, Tucson Fire Department, Housing & Community Development, Housing First, Encampment Protocol, Environmental General Services Department, Tucson Police CORE Team, Tucson Police Operations Division Midtown, Community Bridges and MARC (Multi-Agency Resource Coordinator) participated in the outreach.

Together, this group picked up 10 tons of trash, 200 shopping carts and engaged with 58 individuals to connect them with resources they need to get food, housing, medical help and more.

“Overall it was a big success,” said Mari Vasquez, multi-agency resource coordinator. “This area is all hands on deck and Wednesday was an amazing display of collaboration.”