Hopping on board

Area businesses donate vehicles, products and services to help the Humane Society London & Middlesex transport and care for shelter animals

Photo: Humane Society London & Middlesex staff pictured with three donated vehicles

THREE LOCAL BUSINESSES have stepped up with donations of vehicles and transportation services to help the Humane Society London & Middlesex (HSLM) continue its work of sheltering and caring for approximately 2,500 annually.

Voyago has donated two vans and a bus from their retired fleet inventory, and OK Tire (London Thames) and Overland Custom Coach have each donated services, products and maintenance to tailor and maintain the vehicles for their new use.

The previously used vans will be out on the road as shuttles to transport shelter pets to and from veterinarian appointments. Because the HSLM shelter does not have a vet clinic, and HSLM Animal Health must transport pets to vet partners for surgeries, consultations and treatments.

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The donated bus will serve as an on-site response vehicle for large surrenders of multiple animals and will also serve as a clinic on wheels for microchipping and rabies vaccination events in the future. 

“Although these vehicles are retiring from everyday commercial service, they have lots of life left to support the services of HSLM,” says Voyago president, Corey Jarvis. “The addition of these vehicles help HSLM diversify and expand their community support ― we are thrilled to see these vehicle repurposed for such a great organization.”

OK Tire (Clarke Road) stepped in to assist with vehicle maintenance and tires to make sure that the fleet continues to run smoothly and safely.

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“We are thrilled to be involved with such a worthwhile cause and are lucky to have met such incredibly dedicated people,” notes owner, Jordan Nash. “They are truly passionate about the animals they care for and the people they connect them with.”

Retrofitting of the bus was donated by Thorndale-based Overland Custom Coach, and the work includes stainless steel counters and secured kennels to make the vehicle operational for emergency response and service the community at events.

“It was a particularly meaningful pleasure to be involved with the HSLM mobile project as the Overland Custom Coach team has so many dog lovers on our staff who are deeply and actively supportive of animal well being,” says Overland Custom Coach owner, Bart Dries. “We appreciate the opportunity to be able to contribute to animal health and education here in our own community with HSLM.”

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According to HSLM executive director, Steve Ryall, as an animal shelter operating solely from donations it receives, these type of partnerships with the London business community are a critical component in the work of the shelter.

“Without their gifts, we would not be able to provide medical care and shelter to over 250 animals each day,” says Ryall. “We celebrate these partnerships because it is the true mark of our community, coming together, supporting each other and making change for the better.”