A charity providing free veterinary care to pets whose owners are experiencing homelessness will have access to new veterinary equipment through a Hydro Tasmania Community Grant.

Pets in the Park is one of six Tasmanian organisations to receive a 2025 Community Grant to help make their communities a better place.

Pets in the Park is a national charity that operates free monthly pop-up veterinary clinics in Hobart and Launceston to help ensure people who are experiencing or at risk of homelessness can access care for their animal companions.

Pets in the Park Program Support Officer Gabby Lawson said that for people experiencing homelessness or hardship, the human-animal bond provides profound emotional and psychological support.

“Pets are more than animals, they are lifelines,” said Ms Lawson.

“The benefits of unconditional love, companionship, emotional security, and protection contribute significantly to a person’s wellbeing, meeting essential needs that might otherwise go unmet,” said Ms Lawson.

“The Hydro Tasmania funding will enable us to acquire much-needed veterinary equipment for the monthly pop-up veterinary clinics in Hobart and Launceston.”

“This will expand the scope and quality of care provided at our clinics and directly improve the health and wellbeing of companion animals and the people who care for them.”

The clinics are led by veterinary professionals with support from dedicated community volunteers and services include free health checks, vaccinations, parasite control, microchipping, and access to essential medications.

Hydro Tasmania Executive General Manager, People and Corporate Affairs, Ruth Groom said the business was thrilled to award a grant to a charity that has such an impact on the local community.

“Many of us can relate to the special bond humans share with their pets and we are so pleased to be supporting a charity that ensures people experiencing hardship can access care for their beloved animals,” said Ms Groom.

“Pets in the Park and all of our other five grant recipients are making a real difference in the lives of Tasmanians.”

The Community Grants Program provides community groups with up to $5,000 in funding for projects and activities that make a difference to the lives of people in their area.

Other grant recipients include the Central Highlands Community Garden, Bears of Hope, the Tasmanian Transport Museum, Tullah Progress Association and the Jordan River Community Theatre.

To learn more about the 2025 Community Grant recipients visit: https://www.hydro.com.au/sustainability/community-support/community-grants