OUR MISSION
To keep people and their beloved pets together through equitable access to animal care information, veterinary services, community resources and supplies.
OUR VISION
Previously underserved pets are now healthy and well. They and their people enjoy a mutually beneficial life together through connection with needed resources.
OUR VALUES
We serve people and pets with compassion, kindness, and without judgment.
We uphold diversity, equity, and inclusion in every policy and practice.
We commit to continual learning — “Know Better, Do Better.”
We design data-driven programs that evolve with the needs of our community.
We build strong partnerships to create lasting impact and shared success.
Welcome
THE PET EFFECT: Strengthening health through the human-animal bond
At Better Together Pet Resource Center, we do more than help pets; we help people stay whole. Through The Pet Effect, we see every day how the bond between people and their pets improves lives and strengthens families. By providing the support and resources needed to care for beloved companions, we make it possible for families to keep their furry friends at home where they belong, instead of facing the heartbreak of surrendering them to a shelter or rescue.
BOARD MEMBERS
Guided by compassion and commitment, our Board members work tirelessly to strengthen the bond between people and pets. Their dedication drives every effort to build a more caring, connected community.
Deanna Meyers
Co-Founder & Director
Kathleen Makolinski, DVM, DABVP (Shelter Medicine Practice)
Co-Founder & President
Ivan Adams
Board Member
Karen Slomba
Board Member
Carina Halpin
Board Member
2021
2022
2023
2024
2025
2026
October
April
May
August
April
September
Our Story
How it Began...
Inspired by the heartbreaking number of pets surrendered due to financial hardship and housing barriers, the co-founders of Better Together Pet Resource Center set out to create a solution. Their vision was simple yet powerful: to keep pets and families together through compassionate advocacy, shared resources, and affordable support services.
Officially Established...
Better Together Pet Resource Center proudly obtained its federal EIN, marking the official start of our mission to keep pets and families together through accessible care, resources, and advocacy.
On the Move...
With the donation of our mobile clinic provided by our beloved partner Operation PETS, Better Together Pet Resource Center expanded its reach, bringing affordable veterinary care, resources, and support directly to families and pets in need throughout Western New York.
Finding Our Home...
By leasing our first brick-and-mortar clinic, Better Together Pet Resource Center established a permanent space to provide consistent, affordable care and essential resources for pets and families across Western New York.
Growing Through Generosity...
A transformative $250,000 grant from Bailey & Friends of the Golisano Foundation strengthened our mission and expanded our capacity to keep pets and families together. With their support, we continue building a community where compassion and care make all the difference.
Opening Our Doors...
The grand opening of our brick-and-mortar clinic marked a proud milestone, welcoming the community into a dedicated space where pets receive care, families find support, and the mission of keeping them together truly comes to life.