Providing access to care for Cheyenne River Sioux

For more than two decades, the Rural Area Veterinary Services (RAVS) program has worked to expand access to veterinary care in underserved rural communities where poverty and geographic isolation make regular animal health services unavailable. RAVS’ veterinary teams have treated more than 170,000 animals, providing a range of services valued at more than $33 million - all at no cost to the clients or communities we serve. In addition, our field training programs have provided life-changing service-learning opportunities for more than 9,700 veterinary and veterinary technician students and professionals. The RAVS program expands access to animal health resources via three interconnected approaches: Direct care veterinary services provide immediate response to relieve suffering and promote animal and community health. Clinical training and mentorship for veterinary professionals and students to increase awareness of the issues, provide relevant clinical experience and empower individuals to help shape effective solutions. Community development support and project facilitation builds local capacity for community-based animal care resources and sustainable service programs.