Veterinary Specialty Hospital of the Carolinas Creates Special Partnership With the SPCA of Wake County

Cary, N.C.  – December 8, 2006  –The Veterinary Specialty Hospital of the Carolinas (VSH) and the SPCA of Wake County have created a partnership to ensure that animals with illnesses or injuries that would prevent them from being adopted can be treated and ultimately provided with new homes.

“In addition to emergency services, VSH provides specialty services in the areas of surgery, internal medicine and oncology,” said VSH co-founder Dr. Kevin Concannon.  “Our participation in the partnership allows us to give back to the community by providing unique services to animals that other doctors may not be able to.”

The first success story of the new partnership is a three-year old husky/German shepherd mix named Ellery, who was found wandering in a Raleigh neighborhood and was turned in to the SPCA lost and found pet center. Several vets that saw Ellery noticed that his gait was not quite right.  He was having problems with his back legs severely crossing over as he walked and he would not lift up his right rear leg very far.

Staff at the SPCA had radiographs made of Ellery’s hind legs. At this point, Ellery and his radiographs were sent to VSH to consult with Dr. Gary Spodnick, a surgeon who performs both general and orthopedic surgery. Upon physical examination, Dr. Spodnick determined that it was Ellery’s front legs that were the problem and the abnormalities in his hips were not likely to benefit from surgical repair.  Ellery had a large calcified mass between his left shoulder and body that was affecting his shoulder joint.  Dr. Spodnick surgically removed the mass. During Ellery’s recovery, he was adopted by a couple that accompanied him to his follow up appointment at VSH and was able to meet with hospital and SPCA staff members who were responsible for his care.

“This is a great example of a true non-profit/private partnership,” said SPCA Executive Director Hope Hancock.  “While Ellery was at the SPCA, the entire staff fell in love with him.  Thanks to the partnership with VSH, Dr. Spodnick determined the main cause of pain and now Ellery is recuperating with his new family.”

The partnership not only helps animals in need but it also educates the public about the many programs and services offered by both organizations.