by Dara Paoletti

A little UCAN history
The United Coalition for Animals (UCAN) is a non-profit group formed in 2001, with the mission of providing spay/neuter to the Cincinnati community as a solution to the enormous pet overpopulation issue. Their efforts began with a voucher program that they developed by partnering with 49 of the areas local veterinarians. Through this program they spayed and neutered 1000 animals.

An idea
In 2005 UCAN decided that they could expand their mission by opening a spay/neuter clinic of their own and began work in that direction. The idea was to provide high quality, affordable spay/neuter to the low income communities in the area. UCAN’s plans for the clinic closely follow the Humane Alliance model and will be strictly focused on spay/neuter.

Open to the public
The UCAN clinic is due to open its doors to the public on April 23rd. Partnering with many local animal organizations, UCAN feels they can really improve the pet overpopulation problem in the area. Sarah Skoglund, the clinic’s executive director, sees this as, “an opportunity for rescues and shelters to come together on a large scale.” Dr. David Maloney will be the clinic’s veterinarian and will be very busy, no doubt. Dr. Maloney, who most recently worked for Best Friends Animal Society, is very passionate about spay/neuter and its role in reducing the number of displaced pets. Ms. Skoglund also mentioned that they are developing a volunteer program for the clinic. She hopes to include volunteers in many of the clinic’s daily tasks. For folks interested in finding out more about the UCAN clinic there will be an open house on April 14th and 15th running from 1pm to 4pm each day. For more specific information about the clinic including hours of operation, volunteer opportunities, fees and how to schedule an appointment please visit UCAN Clinic

Showing your support
A unique way that the community can support UCAN’s efforts is by shopping at, consigning or donating items to their non-profit store Pedigree Interiors. Pedigree features furniture and many other items for the home and has recently added a new women’s jewelry showcase. The store is run mainly by a large group of dedicated volunteers lead by store manager, Jane.

To learn more about UCAN and their non-profit consignment store, Pedigree Interiors please visit their website UCAN

Photo of Dr. David Maloney courtesy of Best Friends

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