DEVON WASHINGTON AND HIS PITBULL, PRINCE, ARE WELCOMED BY HUMANE ANIMAL RESCUE OF PITTSBURGH STAFF IN HIGHLAND PARK SEPT. 14 FOR THE FIRST HUMANE ANIMAL COALITION’S M.O.V.E.S MOBILE PET UNIT CLINIC THAT PROVIDES FREE OR LOW-COST VET SERVICES TO UNDERSERVED AREAS. | PHOTOS COURTESY OF ALLEGHENY HEALTH NETWORK

Affordable veterinary care is being brought to Pittsburgh-area residents via a mobile unit.

The M.O.V.E.S (Medical – Outreach – Veterinary – Essential – Support) mobile unit was launched this month by the Humane Animal Rescue of Pittsburgh and Allegheny Health Network with its first mobile clinic Sept. 14 in Highland Park.

The Humane Health Coalition is a premier program in the Pittsburgh area seeking to keep healthy pets and people together. It is funded through private donations, and is estimated to cost $250,000 annually to operate the unit, which includes equipment, lab work, medications, vehicle maintenance and fuel.

“It’s based on the CDC’s ‘One Health’ model of care, which recognizes that the health of people is closely connected to the health of animals and our shared environment,” a Humane Health Coalition press release reads.

The clinics are intended for underserved individuals across the Greater Pittsburgh region who face financial hardship and other social challenges, such as housing instability and limited access to care, which make it difficult to have a furry companion, according to the release.

Devon Washington told WPXI last week at the clinic he attended so his pitbull, Prince, could receive care for a wound on his leg. Washington said the service was much needed as he is currently unemployed and experiencing homelessness.

Caregivers staff the mobile unit to provide low- to no-cost veterinary care services, as well as health care and support services for pet owners.

The unit contains anesthesia and surgical unit, exam table, wet sink, diagnostic equipment and built-in animal cages, along with ample storage for equipment and supplies.

Dr. Ariella Samson, assistant executive director of veterinary care and shelter operations, Brianna Kaufmann, assistant director of medical services and a team of technicians from HARP will work together to provide pet health care services including exams, vaccines and more.

“The human/animal bond is a unique connection that often develops between people and their pets. Through the Humane Health Coalition, we are leveraging that bond to help both animals and pet owners get the care they need,” Samson said in the release. 

Allegheny Health Network Center for Inclusion Health nurses, social workers and community outreach staff will also be on site to conduct human health screenings.

Those served during the clinics may also be connected with primary care, behavioral and mental health resources and social services related to housing, transportation and employment.

The M.O.V.E.S mobile clinic is expected to visit underserved communities across the region twice a month. A schedule has not been released.

Check HARP’s website or Facebook page for updates.