Whenever the medical staff has a wish, the Friends of the Saratoga County Animal Shelter tries to make that wish come true. The shelter wishes are never frivolous. There is always a good reason. There are always discussions about what new equipment could be useful in the surgery suite. Sometimes, medical supply companies inform the shelter medical staff of upcoming ‘deals’ that we may want to consider. And the deals are often worth the expense at that time if the equipment is useful.
With all of the surgeries that go on at the shelter weekly, (primarily spays and neuters, but sometimes more than those), ultrasound equipment was an absolute necessity. The shelter did have a donated ultrasound unit but it was very outdated and not meeting the standards of medicine today. The veterinary staff, very knowledgeable in medical equipment, suggested a very user-friendly portable ultrasound unit that provides the technology needed in today’s shelter medicine world. The Friends of the Saratoga County Animal Shelter did not hesitate and purchased the new equipment. The ultrasound unit that was purchased provides clear and quick readings necessary in decision making. Pictures can be sent in real time to their partner veterinarians for multiple opinions on decisions regarding care. Again, the Friends of the Saratoga County Animal Shelter helps to make a difference in the care and treatment of the shelter animals. The photo shows Kelly, the shelter director and vet tech, demonstrating the new unit during a diagnosis of one of the shelter cats.