By Hywania Thompson | Photo by Hillary Schave
When it comes to pets, keeping them healthy and happy is important. Fostering our pets’ wellbeing is also better for the community, says Lauren Brinkman, executive director of Underdog Pet Rescue and Veterinary Services.
“The theory is that, if owners can access affordable care, they are more likely to be able to keep pets in their homes, not adding them to the overcrowded shelters,” explains Brinkman.
These area nonprofit or affordable veterinary care clinics are committed to helping pet owners keep their furry friends in tip-top shape.
DANE COUNTY HUMANE SOCIETY
Dane County Humane Society (DCHS) is known for its shelter, adoption opportunities and providing a wide range of other services to animals and the community. The donor-supported nonprofit also operates a wildlife program, rehabilitating thousands of injured, sick or orphaned wild animals.
DCHS has veterinarians who provide medical care for the animals it takes in. Additionally, DCHS offers low-cost microchipping to the general public, as well as Pets for Life (PFL), a program featuring accessible veterinary services, including spay/neuter surgeries, flea and tick treatments, and more for families in the 53713 ZIP code, as well as the Allied Drive neighborhood. These areas have a high percentage of residents who live below the poverty line and few pet stores and veterinary clinics.
MADISON CAT PROJECT
For more than 20 years, Madison Cat Project (MCP) has focused on finding homes for cats who may not be adoption candidates due to various issues.
The rescue has five community cat rooms, allowing the animals to socialize and live outside of cages. It features indoor and barn home feline adoption programs as well.
Not only does MCP offer affordable surgery and routine care, it hosts The Cat Cupboard, a pet pantry to help owners who are experiencing financial hardships.
PRECISION VETERINARY CARE
Precision Veterinary Care provides spay/neuter services, dental care and routine exams at affordable prices. Pet families can schedule an appointment on the company’s website, where it lists costs for its services. Precision offers the community-supported Spay-It-Forward fund to help offset costs for pet owners who may not be able to afford the service.
WISCARES
Wisconsin Companion Animal Resources, Education and Social Services (WisCARES) is a unique UW-Madison program blending veterinary and free social services for Dane County residents experiencing homelessness and low-income individuals. The goal is to keep pets with their owners and empower them to care for their pets. Subsidized veterinary services range from basic surgeries to dental care, in addition to a pet pantry with food and supplies.
WisCARES also fosters and boards animals for clients who need medical care or a safe shelter when pets aren’t allowed to accompany them.
WISCONSIN COMMUNITY VETERINARY CENTER
Wisconsin Community Veterinary Center (WCVC) offers services including spay/neuter surgeries, specialized surgeries, wellness exams and dental care. It hosts outreach clinics across the state, providing low-cost and free vaccines in underserved communities.
“We believe in affordable care that doesn’t break the budget in support of our community and the pets we are able to serve,” says Jenner Erin Hanna-Dupree, COO.
UNDERDOG PET RESCUE AND VETERINARY SERVICES
Since 2017, Underdog Pet Rescue and Veterinary Services (founded by Lauren Brinkman, a 2025 BRAVA Woman to Watch) has provided affordable veterinary care for animals in its adoption program and in the community. The organization aims to find permanent homes for companion animals. Underdog’s volunteers foster pets in their homes, assist with adoption events and much more.
Underdog also hosts monthly pop-up clinics to provide free veterinary care for pet families who are at risk of, or experiencing, homelessness.
