Rhode Island’s Only Nonprofit Veterinary Clinic to Close Amid Financial Strain
A critical resource for Rhode Island pet owners is disappearing. The Pets In Need Veterinary Clinic, the state’s sole nonprofit full-service veterinary facility, will close permanently on April 25, the Potter League for Animals announced Friday.
The clinic, which provided subsidized medical care to pets in underserved communities, fell victim to insurmountable financial pressures.
A Difficult Decision
“Since taking over the clinic in 2020, we have worked tirelessly to provide low-cost, high-quality veterinary care,” said Brad Shear, CEO of the Potter League for Animals. “But rising operational costs and economic challenges have made continuing unsustainable. This is heartbreaking for our team and the families we serve.”
The Potter League Board of Directors made the final call after determining the clinic could no longer stay afloat. Despite efforts to keep services affordable, inflation, staffing expenses, and supply chain issues eroded its financial viability.
What Remains Open
While the Riverside clinic will close, the Potter League’s other programs continue operating:
Spay & Neuter Clinic (Warwick): Still providing low-cost sterilization services.
Animal Care & Adoption Center (Middletown): Maintaining adoptions and basic care.
The organization is also exploring new ways to assist pet owners in need, directing them to resources like the R.I. Veterinary Access to Care Coalition for alternative care options.
A Growing Crisis in Affordable Vet Care
The closure highlights a nationwide issue: skyrocketing veterinary costs and a shortage of affordable options. Many pet owners, particularly those with limited incomes, struggle to access basic medical services—leading to delayed care or heartbreaking surrenders.
“We are deeply grateful to our community for trusting us with their pets,” Shear said. “Our commitment to helping animals remains unwavering, even as we adapt to these challenges.”
