It is the dream of every good pet owner to be able to provide the care that their pets need.  This not only helps in keeping pets healthy but also reduces the number of sick animals in both the community and local shelters, not to mention helping to limit the spread of zoonotic disease. 

Unfortunately, there are barriers to veterinary care for many people. According to a study from the University of Tennessee’s College of Social Work and the Access to Veterinary Care Coalition, 28% percent of households reported having barriers to veterinary care in the past two years- money being the biggest barrier.

The study also estimated more than 29 million pets live in homes that rely on SNAP benefits or food stamps. 

Now, COVID-19 is making everyone’s pennies count even more. The US jobs report for April brings news that the US has a loss of 20.6 million jobs since mid-March, resulting in an unemployment rate of 14.7%, a level not seen since the Great Depression in the 1930s. Now more than ever, most pet owners are going to have to dig deeper into their pockets to cater for veterinary care.  

The good news is that better times lie ahead with veterinarians now playing a key role in shaping the present and future landscape of animal welfare.  One such veterinarian is Dr. Michael Blackwell. 

Following in the footsteps of his father, Dr. Blackwell has a Doctor of Veterinary Medicine Degree from Tuskegee University.  He also earned a Master of Public Health Degree from Loma Linda University.  

His career is a clear indication of what defines success since he has served in different top positions.  Previously, Dr. Blackwell served as chief of staff, Office of the Surgeon General of the U.S., chief veterinary officer of the U.S. Public Health Service, dean of the College of Veterinary Medicine, University of Tennessee, and chief veterinary officer of the Humane Society of the United States.

He achieved the rank of Rear Admiral and Assistant Surgeon General during 23 years on active duty with the U.S. Public Health Service Commissioned Corps. In addition, he has served on many national boards and committees

Dr. Blackwell has received numerous awards and recognitions, most notably, the U.S. Public Health Service Distinguished Service Medal (which is the highest personal honor award), and the Meritorious Service Medal (the second highest personal honor award). He also twice received the Surgeon General’s Exemplary Service Medal.

Currently, Dr. Blackwell serves as the Director of the Program for Pet Health Equity, College of Social Work, at the University of Tennessee.  It is in his current position that he is looking forward to improving veterinary care, precisely among families with limited means.  

While some may claim to advocate for animal welfare, Dr. Blackwell is offering solutions for the pet owner who is running on a low budget and he is on a mission to find ways to provide adequate health care to all pets.

To make this dream a reality, Dr. Blackwell is advocating for a One Health approach to not only treat pets but also their families.  This internationally embraced principle aims to address the needs of different socioeconomic groups and discuss the lack of access to veterinary care for millions of pet owners.  

Through Blackwell’s led Program for Pet Health Equity (PPHE), he is hoping to improve access to veterinary care for pets and their families not adequately served by the current system through AlignCare®, the first One Health healthcare system that addresses the needs of people, their pets, and their ecosystem. AlignCare® connects families with veterinary service providers, while leveraging community resources and activities. 

AlignCare® is the main project of the Program for Pet Health Equity and is a collaboration among the University of Tennessee, Maddie’s Fund, veterinary service providers (VSP), social service agencies, animal welfare organizations, veterinary social work (VSW), and community partners who are committed to family welfare through improving access to veterinary care.

To learn more about Dr. Blackwell’s mission click on the link below:

Program for Pet Health Equity