BCT brings hope to pets and their people in Joplin
Hundreds of animals suffered trauma and life-threatening injuries during the May tornado in Joplin,
Missouri and were in need of urgent veterinary care with only one veterinary hospital in the area left
undamaged and equipped to handle medical emergencies—Banfield Pet Hospital. Rescue organizations
including the local Humane Society transferred their critical and surgical cases to the hospital to treat
pets for injuries such as bone fractures and amputations, and shock.
A dog rests after receiving medical treatment for injuries suffered during the tornado.
Banfield Charitable Trust worked to raise and distribute HOPE Funds, which are contributed by donors
through the more than 750 Banfield Pet Hospitals across the country.
While the first two weeks after the tornado were the most intense with nearly 250 pets in need of
critical care and surgery, the need for free or reduced medical care continued throughout June and into
July. Since the tornado touched down, BCT has donated nearly $30,000 to cover expenses for surgery, x-
rays, stitches, pain medications and antibiotics.
“Throughout this tragedy, BCT has been in a unique position among pet-focused nonprofits to have
been able to work closely with our pet hospital network, Banfield Pet Hospital, to help the Joplin
community,” said Dianne McGill, president and CEO for Banfield Charitable Trust. “With the support of
our donors, we have pulled together to help those who have lost so much hold on to their four-legged
family members.”
Melissa Wilson, Banfield Pet Hospital Field Trainer in the Joplin area, recalled how funds were used to
treat the onslaught of needs they faced in the first few days and the dedication staff showed to save
lives, as well. In one instance, Dr. Thomas Schwartz, a Banfield Pet Hospital owner in St. Louis, travelled
to Joplin to perform a complicated orthopedic surgery on a dog who suffered a broken hip and leg.
Veterinarian staff assist a dog hurt in the tornado.
“The best thing overall was seeing the gratitude on people’s faces when we were able to help them and
their pets at no charge,” Wilson said. “Knowing that they’ve lost homes, cars and family, and that we
could help in some small way by caring for their pets was the best!”
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