3 min read
Our (good) hearts are full with the prospect that we’ll help a puppy-in-training.
We know that healthy pets have a beautiful impact on families and individuals. So, we’ve made community giving a core value at both Goodheart Animal Health Center hospitals.
We’re committed to improving the lives of Denver’s pets and people. We choose initiatives that matter and support them through free medical care or financial support.
“Our teams live and work in the communities that we serve,” says Dr Alex Robb, Medical Director of Goodheart Cherry Creek, “and we really want to make sure that we’re good members of the community.”
Next up! The Colorado Avalanche will adopt a puppy.
The Avalanche will care for a new Freedom Service Dogs puppy for the next 2 years. This dog will have a life-changing impact on a person’s life, whether it’s permanently housed with a veteran or someone with special needs.
This is where Goodheart steps in. Offering free medical care throughout the 2-year training process ensures the puppy stays healthy and in peak physical condition. This includes routine wellness visits, vaccinations, dental care, and any other health concerns that may arise during training.
The journey from puppy to service dog is both costly and time-intensive. Alleviating the burden of medical fees lets Freedom Service Dogs focus their resources on training more puppies.
“To be able to do this with a group like Freedom Service Dogs that helps make life better for so many people through the gift of a really well-trained service dog” is super meaningful, says Dr Robb. “As well as with the Avalanche team that we’ve had a relationship with for a long time and really enjoy getting to work with.”
Bernie visits Goodheart Cherry Creek for a wellness visit.
How do you choose which organizations or causes to support?
The Goodheart teams choose causes by listening to the needs of our clients and the veterinary team.
Our focus is on organizations that align with our mission of promoting animal welfare and strengthening human-pet relationships.
We prioritize partnerships where our skills and resources can make a difference, whether with local shelters, rescue groups, or community programs offering veterinary care to underserved pets.
At this time, we’ve contributed $270K to Denver animal nonprofits and local events since opening in 2019. As we grow, our giving will expand as well.
How does the hospital encourage the team to get involved?
We foster a culture of giving by encouraging staff to participate in community activities and volunteer opportunities.
We hold events where our team can volunteer, from helping at adoption events to supporting low-cost clinics.
Team members are also encouraged to suggest causes that matter to them, making our community involvement a team effort.
How can clients and the community get involved?
We invite all our clients (plus their pets!) and community members to join us in making a difference.
Join us out and about throughout the year. Each May we host a booth at the Dumb Friends League’s Furry Scurry. And June finds us at Denver Pride Fest and Juneteenth celebrations.
Working together, we can strengthen our community and create a lasting impact.
Our team is excited to watch the puppy develop and eventually graduate as a fully trained service dog. You can join the journey, too! Follow us on Instagram @goodheartvet or on TikTok @denverveterinarian to stay connected.
Stay tuned for another creative and meaningful partnership with a Denver nonprofit to be announced in the summer of 2025!
We’re here for you 24/7. Call us or book an online visit if you have any questions about your pet.