Nonprofit group helps with spay and neuter services, and provides vet visits and additional resources for unhoused and low- or no-income residents

Southern Oregon-based nonprofit Rogue Valley Street Dogs is one of six organizations in the state to be chosen to receive the Veterinary Service Award by the Oregon Veterinary Medical Association. 

The accolade is presented to an individual, group or organization that has promoted the veterinary profession or the well being of animals, with emphasis on educating and benefiting the public.

The award was announced by the Oregon Veterinary Medical Association in mid-March.

“It definitely means a lot. It’s a huge honor and we certainly are especially honored because it’s coming from OVMA and to have them recognize that we contribute to veterinary care of animals is wonderful,” said Laurie Cuddy, board president of the Rogue Valley Street Dogs. 

Rogue Valley Street Dogs was founded in 2013 and provides a wide range of services and help with pet-related needs. 

The group partners with numerous organizations, veterinary clinics and groups across the region to help with spay and neuter services and provide vet visits and additional resources for unhoused and low-or-no income residents.

The nonprofit is a regular site at outreach events for the unhoused for agencies including Set Free Ministries, Ashland’s OHRA shelter and at Rogue Retreat Crossings.

“We have 35 volunteers, a working board and we have two dedicated phone lines that people are answering constantly as well as Facebook and a website,” Cuddy said. “We gave out over 10,000 pounds of food in 2024.”

“We’re incredibly grateful to the veterinarians that partner with us – and many of them give discounts – and we hope that more veterinarians partner with us because the need is so incredibly overwhelming right now,” Cuddy added. 

Some of the organizations that Rogue Valley Street Dogs partners with include Friends of the Animal Shelter, The Street Dog Coalition, ACCESS and other groups and individuals.

The award-winning organization also facilitated more than 500 spays and neuter surgeries in 2024.

Cuddy said the organization faces the same challenges as many others working in animal welfare including increasing veterinary bills, shortage of affordable services, overpopulation of animals and other difficulties.

Cuddy said she is encouraged in knowing that her organization makes an impact.

“It’s challenging but it’s also just knowing that we’re making a difference; I’m trying to make a difference in overpopulation and (for) the community at large but with each animal we help,” Cuddy said.

“Sometimes you have to focus on that, step by step.”

Cuddy said the local organization is always in need of donations as well as volunteers.

To donate, volunteer or learn more about the Rogue Valley Street Dogs, visit roguevalleystreetdogs.org. 

Reach reporter James Sloan at jsloan@rv-times.com.