In this video, Dr. Delia Large-Hart shares why volunteering is so important in veterinary medicine and in her own life, and how it helps her find purpose and joy in caring for pets and people.
“I’ve loved working with animals since I was little. I grew up around horses and dogs, always involved in their care, and inspired by the veterinarians who helped my animals when they needed it most.”
Dr. Large-Hart’s passion for helping others started early. In fourth grade, a teacher took her class to a local nursing home each week to read, sing, and spend time with the residents. It taught her a lesson she carries into veterinary medicine today: no matter where you are in life, there is always a way to give back.
Veterinary medicine can be challenging, but volunteering brings joy and perspective, reminding us why we do what we do.
“When you volunteer, you get this sense of passion and joy. It makes those hard days worth it because you see something positive come from your work, and it refills your cup.”
When Dr. Large-Hart chose to join Columbia Pike Animal Hospital, she was drawn by Dr. Hall’s commitment to supporting volunteer medicine. Our hospitals provide three volunteer days annually to our doctors, covering time and costs for them to support causes close to their hearts, whether locally or internationally. This support enabled Dr. Large-Hart to volunteer in Ukraine, with flights and medications provided so she could make a difference where it was needed most.
Locally, our hospitals partner with organizations to provide low-cost spay and neuter services and support local rescue groups. One of these partnerships is with Wolf Trap Animal Rescue, an organization dedicated to rescuing and placing homeless animals in loving homes. Our veterinarians spend a month with Wolf Trap Animal Rescue learning high-volume spay and neuter, gaining hands-on shelter medicine experience while volunteering to help pets in need.
“Many of us who have volunteered with Wolf Trap continue to go back to support their mission. It’s an amazing group to work with, and it’s deeply rewarding to give back to the community in this way.”
At Columbia Pike Animal Hospital and our sister hospitals, we believe caring for pets means caring for people too. Supporting our veterinarians in their efforts to give back is part of our commitment to the whole picture of wellness in our community.
Dr. Large-Hart sums it up beautifully:
“People have given so much to me throughout my life, and now it’s my turn to pay that forward. Volunteering allows us to do that, one pet and one person at a time.”
Interested in learning more about how we support our community and care for pets in need?
Visit our websites below or stop by one of our hospitals. We would love to welcome you to the family.
Love People. Love Pets.