The COVID-19 pandemic also contributed to the vet shortage by inducing a “companion animal boom.” Approximately 31 million households adopted a dog or cat in the months after March 2020, according to a 2021 study by the American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals. Vets then became busier than they were before the pandemic, according to 2021 research by the American Veterinary Medical Association. In addition, the cost of veterinary care has gone up. Between 2022 and 2023 alone, prices jumped by 11%, according to a July 2023 report by Forbes magazine. The increases are due to inflation, higher costs for veterinary medicines, higher levels of care, particularly for senior animals, and the vet shortage. The combination of all of these factors explains why animal rescue organizations now pay high costs for each animal on their roster. There is no standard cost because animal patients have unique medical situations and vets charge different prices. Vets often give nonprofits a discount on services. Still, each animal’s cost of treatment adds up to a figure that influences what services the nonprofit will offer. It also affects the total number of animals the organization can treat. The costs also play into the number of animals the nonprofit will offer for adoption and its standard donation request from a new owner. Other phenomena, like climate change, are important as well. “Female cats come into heat when temperatures are
Allison Cardona, California state director for UC Davis’s Koret Shelter Medicine Program, holds a puppy at Antioch Animal Services in Antioch. [Photo courtesy: UC Davis] Wine Country Weddings experience it at its best.
Charlie’s at the Windsor Golf Club is here to attend to your every wish from the rehearsal dinner down to the final wedding detail. Our attentive and courteous staff, elegant ambiance, and spectacular lake and golf course views will make your wedding celebration a truly unforgettable occasion. Choose from a variety of plated and buffet menu options to ease the planning stress. Using our “Create Your Own”, we can work with you to customize a menu tailored specifically to your desires.
Contact: events@windsorgolf.com or call 707-837-0019 Conveniently located at 1320 19th Hole Drive … just off Shiloh Road in Windsor
38 NorthBaybiz
January 2024
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