UF VETS unveils new $150,000 disaster response vehicleMay 9, 2019Pets now have additional support when a natural disaster strikes, thanks to a new $150,000 disaster response vehicle. Able to treat large and small animals, University of Florida (UF) Veterinary Emergency Treatment Service (UF VETS) offers technical rescues and logistical support to veterinary clinics and other response teams, as well as provides initial assessments of impacted areas. In the past, the team has responded to hurricanes, wildfires, flooding, and animal hoarding situations. "Disaster relief is a key component of the Banfield Foundation, and we are humbled to support the important work of first responders as they offer help and hope to communities in need," says Banfield Foundation executive director, Kim Van Syoc. "Veterinary professionals who respond during natural disasters are truly inspiring. We hope this new vehicle improves not only the response process, but also the lives of those doing the lifesaving work." Funded by a grant gifted by Banfield Foundation and PetSmart Charities, the truck will function as a communications hub to interact with local emergency operation centers, shelters, and state agencies. The vehicle comprises a 44-ft (13-m) mobile command and infrastructure support truck and trailer. "We're grateful for the support of the Banfield Foundation and PetSmart Charities, as …
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When disaster strikes Florida, UFVETS works to aid its animalsSeptember 12, 2017By Donald Vaughan Cookie was following her owner across their yard in Gilchrist County, Fla., outside Gainesville, when the ground suddenly opened up, plunging the 10-year-old pug to the bottom of a 30-foot sinkhole. Among the agencies called in to rescue Cookie was the University of Florida Veterinary Emergency Treatment Service (UFVETS), which provides veterinary emergency response throughout the state. Once the sinkhole had been shored up to prevent a cave-in, VETS team member Jennifer Groover, DVM, was lowered down via an A-frame. "The hole was so narrow that I couldn't bend over," Dr. Groover said, "but Cookie was so happy to have a way out that she climbed up my leg and into my arms, and then they lifted us out. Thankfully, she was unharmed by the fall." Technical rescues like this are all in a day's work for the agency, said John Haven, CPA, UFVETS team leader and the UF College of Veterinary Medicine executive director. The program also provides emergency services during natural disasters such as hurricanes (they're very busy now!), tornadoes, and wildfires, as well as for large-scale animal hoarding cases. Born from adversity UFVETS was established in 2004, which saw Florida threatened …
