The Humane Society of Greater Dayton has recently initiated a multifaceted program, extending beyond conventional pet care, to cater to the holistic needs of its clientele.
Under the umbrella of their newly launched One Health program, a designated manager, equipped with a social work license, is poised to offer assistance to individuals confronting urgent challenges beyond the realm of veterinary concerns for their pets.
According to insights from the Humane Society, many patrons visiting the Dayton Humane Veterinary Hospital often articulate issues pertaining to their daily lives, such as food insecurity, homelessness, or grief.
In response, the program manager intervenes, facilitating connections to community resources like food banks and mental health counselors, thereby addressing the broader spectrum of clients’ needs.
Brian Weltge, President & CEO of the Humane Society of Greater Dayton, elaborated on the initiative, stating, “The One Health program manager works with people who are presenting some of these other needs that they have in their lives and our social workers are essentially directing them to resources and being an advocate for them to find those resources to help them.”
Moreover, the program manager plays a pivotal role in elucidating the treatment options for clients’ pets, augmenting their understanding of complex medical procedures or terminology, which may otherwise pose challenges.
“The veterinarian, many times, will have to explain some complicated procedure or terminology that might be hard for someone to understand,” explained Weltge. “And our veterinary social worker, the One Health program manager, will be in the room with them and help to explain.”
Funded through a grant from an undisclosed foundation, the program endeavors to provide comprehensive support to pet owners, recognizing the interconnectedness of human and animal welfare.
