An $8 million project at the Nebraska Humane Society looks to bring more affordable veterinary care in the Omaha metro.
The nonprofit this week announced plans to transform its spay and neuter center into a low-cost Pet Wellness Center. The new space will offer spay and neuter services, preventative care, vaccinations and dental services with the goal of keeping pets with their owners.
In the past, the spay and neuter facility operated as a “one and done” resource. Pet owners are asking for more services, including grooming and vaccinations, said Pam Wiese, Nebraska Humane Society president.
“If we can keep pets with good owners, and we can make sure that they stay in those homes, it’s better for the pet, and it’s also better for the shelter, because then we will get in animals who truly have nowhere else to go, who are lost or abandoned, or have no one advocating for them,” Wiese said.
The new addition includes a nearly 3,000 square foot pet wellness minor medical area and a community resource space. When complete, the facility’s capacity will increase from 6,450 pets treated per year to over 9,000. The estimated completion date is mid-2027.
Wiese said 80% of the $8 million price tag is covered by philanthropic donors. Tito’s Handmade Vodka will match up to $50,000 in donations beginning June 16.
Omaha Mayor John Ewing said he’s excited to see the project come together.
“I am confident the Pet Wellness Center will be a welcomed addition and a critical resource for Omaha-area pet owners for the foreseeable future,” Ewing said.