When someone is elderly, terminally ill or simply stuck at a very low-income level, the companionship of a pet can make all the difference in the world. It can also be devastating when people in these situations can’t afford the necessary treatment if their animal becomes ill.
Since 2006, the organization has provided more than $2 million in veterinary care to pet parents who fit into the above categories.
Three years ago, it achieved a crucial milestone—opening a nonprofit veterinary hospital that’s the only one of its kind in Oklahoma. While the focus is on helping those mentioned above, people at every income level can bring their pets in to take advantage of the reduced care costs, said executive director Wes Shaw.
The event that sparked the whole venture occurred in 2005, when Wes and his spouse, Eric McCune, adopted a puppy they named Bella. A mere three days later, Bella passed away from parvo. A few weeks after that, their cat Tigger became ill and needed a very complicated and expensive treatment to survive. Luckily, Wes and Eric were able to provide their pet with the care he needed, but they realized that many others would not be so lucky.
“Losing Bella was extremely hard on us, and then managing Tigger’s illness got us thinking about how many people have had to choose between feeding themselves and their kids and paying bills, rather than on veterinary care,” Wes said.
“That can be emotionally devastating for someone who’s older or terminally ill and relies heavily upon the animal for companionship, or even just a low-income family that is unable to obtain the needed care for their pet. Pets are an invaluable addition to our lives, and no one wants to see them suffer for lack of proper care when they’re ill.
“Every year, thousands of animals are euthanized, turned over to animal shelters or pass away because the people who love them cannot afford to have them treated,” he added. “We’re not just caring for the pet; we’re also helping the client. These animals are really like children to them.”
A fundraiser held on the University of Oklahoma Campus Corner provided the initial funding to create the nonprofit, and from there the two began aggressively raising funds. For several years they helped at-risk pet owners through their Veterinary Assistance Program, plus operated a pet rescue and adoption program. They also created and still operate Bella SPCA Pawsitive Heelers, who take rescue dogs to visit people in assisted living centers, VA hospitals, hospice facilities and schools.
Since starting the nonprofit, however, Wes and Eric determined that their top priority was to make the veterinary hospital a reality. Three years ago, they achieved that dream, opening an Oklahoma City facility that today operates with a full veterinary team. Bella SPCA does not operate as an animal emergency clinic.
“Our hospital raises the funds for everything we do to help provide free and reduced-cost care to pet owners in dire financial straits,” Wes said. “So, whenever a regular client brings their animal to us to treat, at the same time they’re paying it forward to save another pet.”
The name “Bella” is special in two ways, Wes noted. Not only was it the name of their pet, but it also serves as an acronym for the organization’s mission: “Because Every Little Life is Amazing.”
Wes, who has a background in business management and customer service, took the reins in July 2023 as full-time executive director. The association also is seeking new members for its board of directors; those interested can learn more via the website.
Bella SPCA is supported entirely by individual financial donations and grants. It annually hosts an annual fundraising gala, Cause for Paws, plus other smaller fundraisers. Monetary donations are always needed and can be made through the organization’s website.
“Eighteen years ago we never dreamed we would be doing this, but I am so proud of the work that we’ve done,” Wes said.
“It’s not me and Eric—it’s the community as a whole. Our success is because we have such a great base of people with a passion for the community we serve.”
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