In conjunction with Giving Tuesday, the Thomas J. O’Connor Animal Control and Adoption Center will celebrate the addition of a state-of-the-art x-ray machine and specially-designed room at a dedication ceremony on Tuesday, November 29, 2022.
The Foundation for TJO Animals, the nonprofit organization that provides fundraising and granting support for animals in the care of the Thomas J. O’Connor Animal Control and Adoption Center, began a fundraising effort in support of an x-ray machine to assist with the veterinary care of animals arriving at the center in 2020. With the support of donations from community members, more than $40,000 was raised to make that effort a reality.
As in human medicine, a specially designed room is required that includes lead-lining the x-ray room’s walls and occasionally its ceilings and floors to reduce radiation exposure and make it a safe place for animals and veterinary personnel, helping to protect them by reducing potential health risks that may result from long term treatment in an unprotected environment. The City of Springfield bore the cost of building the X-ray room at the center.
The Thomas J. O’Connor Animal Control and Adoption Center provides animal control services to the cities of Springfield, Chicopee, and Holyoke and receives thousands of animals annually. The municipal organization frequently responds to stray animals that have suffered a traumatic injury requiring diagnostics and treatment. Having an onsite imaging capability assists the center’s veterinary staff in triaging animals and advances potentially life-saving veterinary care. In partnership with the Foundation for TJO Animals that raises funds to support costs associated with extraordinary veterinary needs, more animals can be helped, ultimately be adopted into new, loving homes.
