(Lawrenceville, Ga., Jan. 18, 2018) – Gwinnett’s animal shelter will add full-time, on-site veterinary care under a new $360,000 contract approved by commissioners on Tuesday.

Planned PEThood of Georgia Inc. will provide a full-time veterinarian and veterinary technicians five or six days a week depending on the season.

They will handle in-house evaluations and treatments including vaccinations and surgery for fractures, prolapses, cuts and wounds, and sterilization. Services will also include routine wellness care such as testing and treating heartworm and Feline HIV. Stray and unclaimed animals will be vetted, sterilized, and ready for adoption more quickly unless follow-up treatment is necessary.

Board of Commissioners Chairman Charlotte Nash said the goal is to help dogs and cats find a forever home sooner. “This contract increases the shelter’s efficiency by promptly evaluating, testing and treating contagious or infectious diseases such as parvovirus, feline distemper, mange, ringworm and flu,” said Nash.

The animal shelter is in Lawrenceville at 884 Winder Highway. It is open for adoptions from 11 a.m. to 6 p.m. Monday through Thursday and 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. on Friday and Saturday. Photos of some animals available for adoption are posted online at www.gwinnettanimalcontrol.com.