Creating a Brighter Future for Shelter Animals

Christine Lynch and UC Davis alumnus William C. Tanner have a special place in their hearts for shelter animals, especially their feline companions Abby, Baxter, Biscuit and Tobias—who once faced uncertain futures. Lynch has made a difference in the lives of countless cats, dogs and other companion animals at their local shelter in Puyallup, Washington, where she has volunteered more than 7,000 hours over the past 14 years. “Bill and I are committed to creating a brighter future for animals and were inspired to support the Koret Shelter Medicine Program (KSMP),” Lynch said. “The program has transformed how shelters are built and operate.” To advance the life-saving mission of the KSMP, Lynch and Tanner contributed a current-use gift and included the program in their estate plans, creating the Christine Lynch and William C. Tanner Shelter Medicine Program Endowment—to improve the quality of life for animals for many future decades. They also established a scholarship fund to support the next generation of veterinary leaders. “We are so grateful to Chris and Bill for their support and for making sure we can put their good deed to work now,” said Dr. Michael Kent, CCAH director. “Their passion for our work is heartening.”

Lynch and Tanner first learned about the KSMP during a tour of the school in 2018. They were thrilled to find out that the program offers facility design consultations to shelters. “Chris and I were impressed with the science behind installing portals in cages and how they create a healthier environment for cats living in shelters,” Tanner said. Portals are one of the most effective ways to reduce stress and disease in shelters and to increase adoption rates for homeless animals. They provide a cost-effective way to change housing from cramped cages to double-sided cat condos with separate eating/sleeping and bathroom areas. “Our research has shown that low-stress housing saves lives,” said Dr. Kate Hurley, KSMP’s director. “We are energized by Chris and Bill, who share our vision for a better future for shelter animals. Together, we can dream even bigger!”