New training program aims to help build veterinarian partnerships with animal welfare organizations

Photo: Jack F/Adobe Stock

Shelters United has launched a free Veterinarian of Record (VOR) training program. Supported by a grant from Mars Veterinary Health, the program is designed to help veterinarians and animal welfare organizations (AWOs) establish and maintain successful partnerships.

“The Vet of Record Training Program provides an expanded and mutually beneficial model for veterinarians who want to help homeless pets awaiting adoption while building their practice with an evergreen source of new clients,” Mal Schwartz, Shelters United founder and CEO, said in a news release. “Rescue staff and volunteers who take the training course will learn how to work with veterinarians in a way that minimizes the conflicts that often arise from their different perspectives.”

Shelters United is a cooperative buying program that serves nonprofit AWOs. It’s VOR program provides a framework for veterinarians and AWOs looking to build profitable and impactful relationships, according to the organization. The VOR Training Program is built on the foundation of the Shelters United VOR Toolkit, developed with funding from PetSmart Charities and in collaboration with experts from the University of Florida’s Shelter Medicine program. This comprehensive toolkit provides veterinary teams and shelter leaders with the knowledge and resources needed to support AWOs, improve pet healthcare, and strengthen community connections, according to Shelters United.

The VOR program offers an online training course that provides lessons and interactive experiences to teach veterinarians and AWOs how to work together and use the tools provided in the toolkit. Veterinarians and AWO professionals who access the course can explore how to create successful AWO-veterinarian partnerships, review components of a written legal agreement, and earn 1 hour of RACE-approved continuing education credit.

“As a family-owned, purpose-led company that’s committed to building a more sustainable future for veterinary medicine, Mars Veterinary Health is honored to help make the Shelters United VOR training program,” Molly McAllister, DVM, MPH, global chief medical officer at Mars Veterinary Health, said in a release. “We look forward to seeing how the training contributes to a mutually beneficial VOR model that increases access to care for shelter pets, improves relationships between veterinarians and animal rescues, and makes it easier for veterinarians to give back to their local communities through shelter work.”

Reference

Shelters United launches free training to help veterinarians make a difference in their communities. News release. Shelters United. February 27, 2025.