Baypath Humane Society of Hopkinton announced a new partnership with the Banfield Foundation that includes a $5,014 grant to support a new medical program, the Baypath in-house diagnostic kit. Funds will provide five critical pieces of medical equipment that will allow shelter staff to provide a better level of care in a more efficient manner.

Due to veterinarian shortages, Baypath is experiencing delays in getting animals seen. The proposed kit will help to triage animals more quickly, increase service capacity and save unnecessary, stressful and often expensive trips to the vet or vet hospital, while freeing Baypath’s vet partners from simple diagnostic tests.

“I am so thankful to the Banfield Foundation for recognizing the importance of having onsite tools that help our certified vet tech and veterinary interns to gather essential preliminary data, proactively monitor animals, and work with our vet partners to ensure successful outcomes for pets in our care,” said Baypath Executive Director Liz Jefferis. “This support will make all the difference in getting rescue animals the immediate help they need.”

Baypath estimates approximately 1,500-2,000 pets will benefit from the proposed diagnostic kit equipment in the next five years.

MRMC recognized with Humanitarian Award

Milford Regional Medical Center was the recipient of the Humanitarian Award from the Tri-County Regional Chamber of Commerce. The award recognized the hospital’s dedication, service and support during the pandemic.

“This award is for every single doctor, nurse, office worker, the maintenance crew — really every single person who works at the hospital,” Chamber President Laura O’Callaghan said at the chamber’s Aug. 10 annual meeting and award presentations. “We wanted to recognize all those who were and continue to be on the front lines.”

Over the course of three COVID-19 surges, Milford Regional treated more than 1,800 COVID-19 inpatients. And, the Milford Regional Healthcare Foundation worked diligently with the Purchasing Department to distribute thousands of COVID-focused donations, including masks, sanitizer, ponchos, gloves and eye protection.

“Milford Regional is honored and humbled that the Tri-County Regional Chamber of Commerce would recognize our service and commitment to the community during the pandemic,” said Milford Regional Healthcare Foundation Annual Giving Officer Julie Whitney, who accepted the award on behalf of the hospital. “The entire hospital staff worked tirelessly during the height of the pandemic and we’re grateful to be recognized for that.”

The Tri-County Regional Chamber of Commerce is a private, not-for-profit, membership-based organization that advocates for local businesses in a number of area towns, including Hopkinton.