What is shelter medicine?

Shelter medicine is a specialized field of veterinary medicine dedicated to caring for homeless animals or those at risk of becoming homeless. It encompasses a wide range of veterinary care, including preventive care, disease management, population control, behavioral health, public education, cruelty case management, and forensic science. Shelter medicine experts refine specialized practices to elevate the care of animals at scale, such as high-quality, high-volume spay-neuter (HQHVSN) and high-quality, high-volume neonatal kitten rearing. Advancements in shelter medicine arise from curiosity, innovative problem-solving (MacGyvering), shelter-based clinical research, and evolving evidence-based medicine.

What Do We Do?

Our club aims to educate students about shelter medicine and provide opportunities for those interested through talks, fundraising, volunteering, field trips, and EMS placements.

Previous Events:

Talks: Topics have included a pragmatic approach to the pelvis, care for golden oldies, feral cat management, cat behaviour, chicken rescue, and an introduction to shelter medicine.

Fundraising: Activities such as plant sales and bake sales.

Resources and Opportunities: Access to resources like Cat Protection’s behaviour conference and EMS placements with various charities and rescue organisations.

Find us on: Instagram: @rdsvsheltermed