On Saturday, Wendy’s Misfits Animal Rescue brought free veterinary services to a Lufkin parking lot, helping roughly 100 East Texas residents care for their pets without the usual expense. The event, sponsored by the Jason Heigl Grant, was staffed by DeHart Veterinary, a practice known for offering low‑cost care.
Community‑Driven Relief for Pet Owners
Roxie Little, director of the rescue, explained that the organization has long wanted to address the growing demand on shelters and rescues. “The shelters and rescues are overrun with calls and emails every day asking people to take abandoned, unwanted, sick animals … So we’re just trying to do whatever we can to curb that overpopulation, but it takes a village,” Little said. She added, “It’s going to take all of us as owners, as animal lovers, as a people, as a nation to help the ones that can’t speak.”
Pet Owners Share Their Stories
Lola Seal, who lives on a fixed income, brought a stray to the event. “I can’t afford it, ma’am. I want it out there, so they’ll understand that animals, even strays, need help too,” she said, noting that the low‑cost clinic saved her dog’s life and provided needed medication.
Evelyn Knight drove 30 miles to bring her dog Sabrina for care, saving nearly $300. “Her name is Sabrina. Sometimes she’s a good witch, sometimes she’s a bad witch. That’s why I named her that,” Knight laughed, grateful for the financial relief.
Faith and Responsibility Highlighted
Volunteer Susan Brown emphasized the moral duty of pet ownership. “A dog can give unconditional love. Cats can do it; all God’s creations can do it. And they deserve that; we’re here to take care of them. If you don’t want to take care of them, don’t own one,” Brown said, underscoring the rescue’s faith‑based commitment to stewardship of God’s creatures.
Upcoming Free Services
Wendy’s Misfits Animal Rescue will host another low‑cost vaccine education clinic on Saturday, Nov. 14, outside the Lufkin Planet Fitness. The event will also offer microchipping for $15, further helping owners keep their pets safe and identifiable.
These free‑care events provide vital support for families facing inflation‑driven budget pressures, ensuring that pets—often considered family members—receive essential medical attention without forcing owners to choose between care and other necessities.
How to Get Involved
Community members who wish to volunteer, donate, or learn more about upcoming events can contact Wendy’s Misfits Animal Rescue directly. The organization encourages local churches, businesses, and families to partner in future initiatives, reinforcing the shared responsibility of caring for all of God’s creations.
Original reporting: KLTV 7 Tyler (news) — read the source article.