The MAC C.A.R.E.S. Center

Pets are no longer an after-thought when it comes to meeting the needs of humans, they are an integral part of the majority of American families. Chattanooga is no exception – one need only take a walk downtown or through a local park to see residents enjoying the City with their pets. We estimate there are more than 14,000 pets living with their owners below the federal poverty line in Chattanooga. But In most of these neighborhoods, there are no veterinary offices, no pet supply stores, and no easy access to pet care resources.  We aim to change that. 

 

This Center is located within Chattanooga City limits at 4001 Rossville Blvd. Chattanooga, TN 37407 and is NOT a new animal shelter.

The MAC C.A.R.E.S. Center will provide MAC a physical presence in the heart of the communities that most need our support. Located inside the MetMin Impact Hub, the Center will bring pet food, supplies, preventative veterinary services and other critically needed pet owner support directly to those who would otherwise have no access to it.

 

By bringing pet care support directly to those who need it most, the new MAC C.A.R.E.S. Center is a critical step in fulfilling MAC’s mission of Saving Animals. Helping People.

Services Provided by MAC

Most pet food donated to MAC is distributed back into the community.  We not only typically have pet food available here at MAC, we also distribute donated food to food pantries and organizations throughout the community.  Please note that clients are only eligible to receive food once per month, we cannot guarantee specialty or prescription items, and we are dependent upon donations to serve community needs so we may not be able to accommodate types or amounts of food requested. 

We are happy to share pet caretaking items like crates, carriers, litterboxes, leashes, toys and more that have been donated to us.

Finding rental housing that accepts pets can be difficult; when funding allows, MAC can work directly with landlords to help secure pet deposits (up to $250.00) for renters with pets. 

MAC provides low cost spay and neuter services for pet owners in Hamilton County, TN. For pricing, more information and to schedule an appointment, please visit our Spay/Neuter Services Page.

MAC hosts weekly low-cost vaccine and microchip clinics at the Center every Monday from 12 PM to 4 PM, no appointment necessary.  MAC also hosts periodic free and low-cost clinics in locations throughout the community – click HERE to see calendar of upcoming events.

Many of the behaviors that frustrate pet owners are actually fairly easily fixed, and MAC has experts in cat and dog behavior that can help address basic behavioral challenges to help you keep your pet. 

 Occasionally we receive donations of dog houses and cat shelters that can provide shelter for animals outdoors from the elements, and we are happy to share them.

Community/feral/loosely owned cats are part of our landscape, and while we care deeply about their welfare we know that for a variety of reasons the last place a healthy community cat should end up is in a shelter.  Please check out our Community Cats web page for information on dealing humanely with nuisance cats, what to do when a community cat or litter of kittens shows up at your door, and preventing unwanted litters.

Unfortunately, MAC’s kennels are almost always overflowing with strays and surrendered animals, making boarding additional animals difficult.  We do have relationships with boarding facilities and foster homes around the area that can assist with temporary housing when needed.  We also at times have foster homes available that are willing to help pet owners who need temporary care for their pets due to an emergency (available for individuals partnered with Red Cross, Family Justice Center or other local advocacy organization).  Placement depends on availability, skills and willingness of approved foster homes. While we are committed to doing everything we can to help, we cannot guarantee placement in an emergency boarding facility or foster home.

Hours & Contact Information

Need Assistance? We’re happy to help! Please contact our Community Solutions Team by calling (423) 305-6505 or email our Community Solutions TeamYou can also apply for assistance online – click here.

 

If you plan to visit the MAC C.A.R.E.S. Center you can find us at the MetMin Impact Hub located at 4001 Rossville Blvd. Chattanooga, TN 37407.

 

Hours

Monday: 10 AM – 4 PM

Tuesday: 10 AM – 4 PM

Wednesday: Closed
Thursday: 10 AM – 4 PM 
Friday: 10 AM – 2 PM
We are closed daily from 12:00 PM to 12:30 PM for lunch.
Support This Initiative

If you feel moved to support this initiative, we invite you to learn more about the MAC CARES Fund. Click below to learn more about making a life-saving donation.