Early Success for the New Community Medical Program
Addressing the need for access to affordable veterinary care
The reviews are in, and we are proud of the early success of Rancho Coastal Humane Society’s (RCHS) Community Medical Program. We officially launched the program last November, following the opening of the brand-new, state-of-the-art Charlotte’s Medical Center, and we already knew that the need in this community was great. In just a few short months, RCHS has received an abundance of 5-star reviews! ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
I’m over the moon to have found Rancho Coastal. Just amazed at the professional friendliness of the entire staff… this is really such a blessing for those in need. Thank you.
Everyone was very nice and helpful. They are taking great care of my dog and I appreciate the staff and grant that made it possible.
The place looks fantastic, and the staff are professional, patient, and very friendly. They took the time to inform me about everything I needed to know before, during, and after the appointment, and they answered all my questions.
Everything was perfect. Thank you all for your great work.
The Community Medical Program expands access to veterinary care beyond the shelter by offering low-cost spay/neuter services for animal rescue partners, medical care for pets enrolled in the Veterinary Care Program for low-income seniors, and owner-present euthanasia services.
RCHS also hosts quarterly FREE vaccination clinics – open to the community. These clinics not only provide essential vaccinations, but also offer licensing assistance, low-cost spay/neuter referrals, and Ask-A-Trainer consultations. Our next clinic is scheduled for March 7 – reservations required.
Clinics take place on our campus alongside Brock’s Community Pet Food Bank, which is open every Saturday from 9 a.m. – 11 a.m. The pantry offers free essential pet food and supplies to pet families in need.
RCHS President and CEO Judi Sanzo explains:
“We recognize that economic factors, including the high cost of living in Southern California, along with a shortage of affordable veterinary care and veterinarians, are creating a strain on pet families. With our Community Medical Program, we are delivering compassionate, essential veterinary care to those who need it most. No one should have to make the difficult decision to relinquish a beloved pet because they can’t afford care; or to euthanize a pet due to the inability to access veterinary services.”
Keeping Families Together
One of the major benefits of the Community Medical Program is the ability to expand the Veterinary Care Program for low-income seniors. Launched in 2020, until now, RCHS partnered with outside veterinary hospitals and covered the cost of care for the pets of vulnerable seniors in San Diego County. Unlike any other program for seniors in the area, the ability to bring some of these cases on-site to Charlotte’s Medical Center positions the VCP for significant growth. Notes of gratitude reinforce the impact the program is making.
Dear Vet Care Team,
I’m writing to extend my deepest gratitude for your generous support in covering the cost of Zoey’s dental surgery. Thanks to your kindness, she was able to have her teeth extracted safely and is now comfortable—pain-free and on the road to a full recovery. It’s been incredible to see how much brighter and more energetic she’s become since the procedure. She’s truly thriving, and it wouldn’t have been possible without your compassion and willingness to help. Thank you again for being there for us during a time of need. Your support made a world of difference—not just for Zoey’s health, but for our peace of mind as well. We are forever grateful. -VCP Client
Zoey & Friends
The Community Medical Program team oversees multiple programs, coordinating animal care for rescue partners, domestic violence victims, active and retired military, low-income seniors and the public. They are also tasked with maintaining compliance and quality standards consistent with hospital-level operations.
A Vision Becomes Reality
None of this would have been possible without our loyal supporters who persevered during our Capital Campaign to see the renovation of the RCHS campus completed in the Fall of 2024. This included our Campaign Co-Chairs, Pam and the late Jerry Cesak. The Medical Center is named in honor of their beloved former cat, Charlotte.
The new 5,000+ square foot medical center replaced our old medical space, which was just under 500 square feet. Charlotte’s Medical Center features advanced medical equipment, a dedicated X-ray room, surgical suite, dental tables, multiple treatment and recovery rooms, separate kennels for our Animal Safehouse Program pets, and a private Serenity Suite for when it’s time to say goodbye to a cherished pet.
Sustaining these programs and services requires ongoing support, and we rely on our donors to help drive this mission forward. If you would like to donate to our Community Medical Program, please consider becoming a monthly donor. It’s all about keeping pets happy, healthy, out of shelters, and with the people who love them.