Shelter Medicine

All shelter pets are tested, microchipped, spayed/neutered, and vaccinated. Healthy cats and dogs who’ve also passed their behavior assessments are cleared to move directly into our adoption program. Shelter pets diagnosed with a medical condition are placed on individualized treatment plans and monitored until they can be medically cleared to enter the adoption program to find their forever families.

Many animals require intensive, specialized care. Some even need emergency surgeries to save their lives. These pets are treated by our specialist vet partners.

The Maryland SPCA is one of the state’s few shelters with a facility dedicated to treating cats with ringworm. In a shelter environment, it’s costly to eliminate this very contagious infection. Cats are quarantined for six to eight weeks and are bathed twice a week with medicated topical solutions to eradicate the disease.

Did You Know?

Gladys came in dehydrated, emaciated, and covered in fleas. She couldn’t stand or walk. We took her to get an emergency blood transfusion. Then we removed all her fleas and provided IV fluids. Now she’s recuperating in foster care until she’s ready for adoption.

Last year, emergency care to save pets like Gladys cost an average of $1,100. Will you help?

Medical Exams

Emergency Care

Ringworm

Did You Know?

The Maryland SPCA provides life-saving emergency care to pets in need.

Our Veterinary Partners