Healthy People + Healthy Pets

Healthy People + Healthy Pets is an annual community care event, led by WSU’s College of Nursing and College of Veterinary Medicine, that provides free health services to unhoused or low-income individuals, along with care for their pets.

Each year, first-semester junior nursing students participate in the event as part of their clinical experience, dedicating a day of service while delivering hands-on care and building connections with community members.

Human health services include screenings such as blood pressure and blood glucose checks, consultations, and immunizations. Pets receive wellness exams, core vaccinations, parasite prevention, and essential supplies such as food, collars, leashes, and toys.

The event underscores the commitment of WSU students, faculty, and community partners to care for those who often go without, while recognizing the powerful bond between people and their pets.

Students gain hands-on clinical experience by encouraging people who attend for their animals to also receive basic health screenings. For some attendees, this may be one of the few opportunities they have to receive these simple screenings, which can help identify potential health concerns early or prevent future problems.

Tiffany Valentine, RN, MN, Teaching Assistant Professor at the WSU College of Nursing

By offering co-located services, the clinic reduces barriers to care and strengthens engagement through the human-animal bond, advancing health outcomes throughout the community. In 2026, the clinic served 56 people and 84 pets in a single day and distributed essential supplies for both.

Since 2018, the program has been supported by community partners including WSU Health, Spokane Regional Health District, MultiCare, STCU, Numerica, and the Denny Murphy Community Nursing Endowment.