MEDIA CONTACT: Amanda Norton

anorton@humanesocietyofsedona.org

Humane Society of Sedona Welcomes New Veterinarian & Veterinary Technician

While veterinary shortages rage across America, the Humane Society of Sedona leadership is positioning the shelter to continue timely and quality health care for local, abandoned pets without interruption.

SEDONA, July 12, 2024 – In early March, the Humane Society of Sedona (HSS) welcomed Veterinarian, Dr. Audrey Yank, and Veterinary Technician, Ashley Angus, to the team. The duo will provide necessary medical treatments to Shelter animals such as spay and neuter services, tumor removal, and dental treatments. Dr. Yank graduated from the Ohio State University College of Veterinary Medicine in 2007 with practice experience in both small and large animal medicine. Dr. Yank is also a Certified Veterinary Acupuncturist and committed to the whole health of each animal.  Ashley’s background includes a strong community and public service commitment. She transitioned from law enforcement to Veterinary Technician several years ago. Both team members have experience working with veterinary clients in the Verde Valley. Initially, they are scheduled for part-time assistance at the shelter-based clinic.

“Last year, 858 homeless animals arrived at the Shelter, many requiring immediate medical care,” states Executive Director, Jennifer Brehler. “Community support and donor-funded programs like the Emergency Medical fund help HSS manage the rising costs of routine and urgent animal health care. But, because of the shortage of veterinary personnel, Shelter cats and dogs were having to wait too long for required surgery. Animal transport to and from veterinary services a considerable distance away created stress for the animals, staff, and volunteers. We are thrilled to have Ashley and Dr. Yank join us and it’s wonderful to have our four-legged residents spayed or neutered expediently. This way, we can go about what we love doing the most—getting them adopted!”

According to PetLabCo., Arizona ranks fifth as the state where vets are most in demand. In 2022, Arizona’s Legislature passed SB 1271 to help mitigate the shortage with the creation of the Arizona Veterinary Loan Assistance Program. The Program includes up to $100,000 of student loan reimbursement for vet students who receive a degree and meet specific requirements.

“Even with the AZ Vet Loan Assistance Program, it may be years before we see more available veterinary personnel. We knew we had to take action now for the safety and health of the pets we care for at the Shelter,” Jennifer affirms. “I’ve been asked if the vet services are open to the public. Our primary focus is on the Shelter animals first so they have the best chance of finding a family all their own. We hope to continue to expand services for the benefit of at-risk community pets and the people who love them. With solid community support, we should be able to do that. Donations and Thrift Store sales comprise more than 80% of our income. As costs continue to rise and HSS adds services like our new clinic, we will depend on the generosity of our supporters more than ever.”

For information about the Humane Society of Sedona and make contributions, go to humanesocietyofsedona.org or call 928.282.4679.

About The Humane Society of Sedona

The Humane Society of Sedona is a non-profit organization, dedicated to improving the lives of pets in our community and serving the greater Verde Valley and surrounding areas since 1966. The Humane Society of Sedona relies on community support, contributions, grants, bequests, investments, proceeds from the Society’s thrift stores, and some fees for service in order to save pets’ lives. The Shelter is located at 2115 Shelby Drive, Sedona.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

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