Making the World a Better Place for Pets – One Rescue at a Time
Dr. Zubin Emmanuel makes the world a better place for pets everyday. We recently caught up with him to learn more about his passion for volunteering and his latest rescue project with the Humane Society of the United States (HSUS).
Can you tell us a bit about your career path and when you knew you wanted to be a veterinarian?
My love for a career in veterinary medicine started when I was 7 years old and began volunteering at my local shelter. I was there every Saturday morning, cleaning kennels and chatting with potential adopters. It was so rewarding to help animals in need find new homes. I was hooked from day one!
With Banfield, I started off as a new graduate associate veterinarian, then purchased a charter hospital which I ran for eight years. I then became a Chief of Staff for the hospital and acted as interim Director of Veterinary Quality, before settling in my current role as an Area Chief of Staff. It’s been an incredible journey.
Can you tell us about your recent volunteer trip with the HSUS?
This was my third trip to their east coast shelter to help rescue dogs. In addition to providing medical treatment, I was also focused on behavioural work and training to help these dogs get more comfortable around people. Socialization is such an important part of the recovery process. Most of them have suffered abuse and are very timid. The HSUS had recently rescued several dogs from a terrible situation in New Mexico, many of whom were pregnant. One of the puppies that was rescued, Sven, is now enjoying life with his new foster family. This is why I volunteer. These positive outcomes keep me motivated to do even more.
How did Banfield support you in this volunteer experience?
I received funding through the Banfield Foundation, which was established to help pets and owners in need. This was the second time I’ve received a grant from their Care Knows No Boundaries (CKNB) program. My first grant was used to help rescue and treat 180 cats from a dire situation in Delaware. The Foundation has been an amazing ally in helping me make a difference.
Are you involved in other community projects?
I currently volunteer for NEPRIS, which connects experienced professionals with students of all ages to help them prepare for their future careers. I was also proud to share my love of pets and the profession with underserved grade school students last year, through Banfield Pet Academy presentations with Friends of the Children and the Boys & Girls Club. Passing along knowledge and skills to the next generation is so important – especially in the veterinary profession where we need more talent and diverse representation.
If you could communicate with pets in need, what would you tell them?
That we are here for them! It’s hard to get past the trauma these pets have faced, I’ll admit I’ve left shelters in tears on more than one occasion. But knowing we are giving them a second chance makes all the difference in the world. Seeing these pets recover and find new homes is so rewarding, and it highlights the important impact that volunteers have on pets’ lives.
