Sky the dog was one of 60 animals to receive a free spay surgery when Lady Freethinker (LFT) sponsored two veterinary clinics in southeastern L.A. in April.
Focusing on low-income families and homeless individuals with animal companions, rescue organization Downtown Dog Rescue (DDR) works in the most underserved areas of Los Angeles. Lady Freethinker was proud to support their efforts by funding two clinics providing spay/neuter surgeries, microchips, vaccinations, deworming, and flea preventives — offered free of cost to attendees thanks to LFT’s Animal Aid Fund.
With few options for veterinary care in this underserved area of Los Angeles, animal guardians see DDR’s clinics as a true lifeline for their furry companions.
Pickles (Tracie Rodriguez/LFT)
Pickles, who had kittens on her now-guardian’s couch after being found roaming outside in the rain, was one of the patients who received a spay at the clinic. Pickles’ guardian expressed thanks not only for the free care provided, but for the respectful manner with which all attendees were treated — one of the hallmarks of DDR as they aim to provide nonjudgmental support to all people wanting to care for their animals.
“They took such good care of her here,” Pickles’ guardian said. “Everyone was so polite and wonderful. I feel really good about this.”
Clinic Patient Pelota (Tracie Rodriguez/LT)
Lori Weise, founder of DDR, has spent years forging relationships in the most economically-challenged areas of Los Angeles, working to ensure care for dogs and cats by aiding communities through a mixture of social work, clinics, and providing shelter for homeless animals.
A repeat client, who brought three cats to the clinic, trusts Lori and DDR implicitly and is beyond grateful for their help.
“I’ve been coming here for years with all my cats,” the cat guardian said. “Thank you, guys.”
LFT Founder Nina Jackel & DDR Founder Lori Weise (Tracie Rodriguez/LFT)
With shelters bursting at the seams, spay/neuter clinics like these are key to preventing more homeless animals. LFT was thrilled to partner with DDR to help cats & dogs locally in Los Angeles. Huge thanks to all who have donated to make our Animal Aid Fund grants possible so that we can continue to make a difference — both for animals and the guardians who love and care for them.
