VHS is the only open admission shelter and low-cost veterinary clinic open year-round on the island of Vieques, located off the coast of mainland Puerto Rico. All dogs and cats are accepted and vetted, regardless of temperament, need, or medical condition—and regardless of the ability of a client to pay for service. Historically, Vieques has severe pet health and animal overpopulation problems, compounded by poverty (45.9% of the population live in poverty), cultural norms related to animals, and lack of awareness and education about basic animal wellness needs. Together, Grey Muzzle and VHS are saving lives.
A grant from the Grey Muzzle Organization makes it possible for Vieques Humane Society (VHS) to identify, assess, and treat owned senior dogs, most of whom have not seen a veterinarian since they were puppies. Sadly, this is a typical condition on a small, under-resourced island. Support includes financial assistance, as needed. But, the effort doesn’t stop there: VHS will also vet, shelter, socially enrich, and actively promote homeless senior dogs for adoption. Thanks to Grey Muzzle, VHS can provide happy endings for abandoned senior dogs like Adam, who survived abuse, neglect, and malnutrition. Adam entered the shelter afraid of people and heartworm positive. He found a safe haven in the VHS foster program, where he has learned to trust, while being treated for heartworm. He's become a loveable, housebroken, kind soul who will be looking for a couch to crash on as soon as he is medically ready. VHS is always looking out for other dogs like Adam who are living on the streets and deserve help finding their happy, healthy new beginning.
