What is shelter medicine?
Shelter medicine is a dedicated field of veterinary medicine focused on the health and well-being of animals in shelters. It addresses population-level care, disease prevention, and the unique challenges of treating lost and abandoned animals. Shelter veterinarians work to ensure animals are healthy, behaviourally supported, and ready for adoption - while also helping improve welfare outcomes, reduce euthanasia, and promote responsible pet ownership in the community.
What we do
Shelter veterinarians and nurses play a vital role in providing high-quality, compassionate care to animals in need. Every day, the team treats hundreds of sick, injured, and vulnerable dogs and cats, many with little or no known medical history.
Operating in a fast-paced, resource-conscious environment, shelter vets handle a wide range of cases from routine procedures such as vaccinations and desexing to complex medical and surgical interventions, including orthopaedic repairs and trauma care.
They often provide this care without the benefit of prior records or an owner to consult, making decisions in a challenging and often stressful shelter setting.
With a focus on population health, disease prevention, and animal welfare, The Lost Dogs’ Home shelter medicine vets make treatment decisions based on clinical judgment, public health considerations, and rehoming potential - ensuring every animal has the best possible chance at recovery and adoption.
The Lost Dogs’ Home Vet Hospital
Explore how our nonprofit veterinary services are making a difference in the community by providing compassionate, affordable care for pets in need. From routine check-ups to life-saving treatments, our dedicated team ensures every animal receives the care they deserve.