About

---

The Rhode Island Veterinary Access to Care Coalition (RIVACC) is a collaborative effort that brings together several dedicated animal welfare organizations across Rhode Island. Our mission is to make essential veterinary care accessible to all Rhode Islanders, ensuring that pets receive the care they need to live happy and healthy lives.

In Rhode Island, thousands of people and their pets face challenges in accessing adequate veterinary care. This issue is multifaceted, encompassing concerns related to income inequality, transportation accessibility, language barriers, and the veterinary industry, among others. RIVACC strives to address these challenges locally and make veterinary care more accessible to all Rhode Islanders and their beloved pets.

The mission of the Rhode Island Veterinary Access to Care Coalition (RIVACC) is to ensure that every Rhode Islander has equitable access to essential veterinary services. 

We understand that different pet owners may have varying needs and circumstances. To meet these diverse needs, we've partnered with several reputable organizations, each offering their unique approach to providing accessible veterinary care. Our coalition includes:

• Potter League for Animals
• Rhode Island SPCA
• Providence Animal Rescue League (PARL)
• Volunteer Services for Animals (VSA)
• Providence Animal Control
• RIVMA Companion Animal Foundation (CAF)
• Friends of Animals in Need
• Rhode Island Veterinary Medical Association (RIVMA)

These organizations have come together to ensure that every Rhode Islander, regardless of their financial situation, can access vital veterinary services for their beloved pets. We recognize that each of our member organizations has a unique approach to providing assistance. 

1. Make veterinary care more universal and accessible in Rhode Island by reducing or eliminating barriers and improving access to veterinary care.
2. Recognize that companion animals are bonded members of the family and work to work their well-being and decrease their suffering.
3. Foster veterinary care that is equitable to all and that is compassionate, respectful, and considerate of pet's and family circumstances.
4. Enhance collaboration and communication among Rhode Island non-profit organizations dedicated to providing subsidies, services, and financial assistance for veterinary health for individuals facing income constraints in caring for their animal companions.