Helping shape the future of veterinary medicine
Rural Area Veterinary Services (RAVS) programs provide essential veterinary services and build professional capacity to reduce barriers to animal health resources and expand equitable access to veterinary care. This important work is accomplished through a range of interconnected approaches.
Caring for animals in need
Through direct care, professional training and community development, RAVS provides essential support for animals and their families—and equips veterinary professionals with the skills to provide the best possible care in any setting.
treated since 2003
provided to date
Engaged in training and outreach projects
What we do
Direct care veterinary field clinics deliver essential services to relieve suffering and support animal and community health.
Since 2003, we’ve treated more than 175,000 animals, providing a range of services from emergency surgery to spay/neuter and wellness care. Our experienced veterinary teams have delivered over $34 million in high-quality, no-cost veterinary care in underserved rural communities where animal health resources are often not accessible.
Training and mentorship for veterinary and veterinary technician students to prepare and inspire a generation of professionals committed to community service.
Working with experienced professional mentors, students receive intensive hands-on clinical training and vital experience in community outreach while gaining a deeper awareness and appreciation of the systemic challenges faced in underserved communities. Student alumni graduate and move into their careers equipped with knowledge and strategies to expand access to veterinary care and improve quality of life for animals everywhere.
Professional engagement and outreach provide opportunities for veterinary professionals to share their knowledge and skills to improve equitable access to veterinary care in underserved communities.
Our professional volunteers are at the core of the RAVS program. Veterinarians and veterinary technicians from all over the country take time away from their jobs and daily lives to generously contribute their skills and expertise. These committed professionals drive the success of RAVS and share in our mission to support the health and well-being of pets and the people who love them.
Community development support builds local capacity for community-based animal care resources and sustainable service programs.
RAVS’ Community Animal Care Projects bring together networks of community members, local animal control and public health personnel, compassionate volunteers, regional veterinary providers and dedicated RAVS staff in community-driven partnerships to expand local access to essential animal health services.
More about RAVS
Pets for Life and Rural Area Veterinary Services address issues of equity and access to care by othering resources and support to people and pets.
Our More Than a Pet campaign is leading the charge to raise awareness of this overlooked national crisis and to attract new corporate support to increase access to pet resources and veterinary services and help keep people and pets together.
Pets for Life and RAVS stepped up during the COVID-19 pandemic to provide care and help keep pets and families together.
Volunteer with RAVS
Volunteers are the core of the RAVS program. Learn how you can get involved with Rural Area Veterinary Services.
Lance Murphey/AP Images for The HSUS