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WesternU / Pet Health Care / WAVE Program

WAVE Program

Offering pet owners a meaningful opportunity to honor their departed pets by giving them an even greater purpose beyond death…

Welcome to the WesternU CVM WAVE Program…

At the Western University of Health Sciences College of Veterinary Medicine, we believe that no animals should be harmed for the sake of education. We believe in the profound bond between humans and their beloved animal companions and understand that saying goodbye to a cherished pet is never easy, which is why we established the Willed deceased Animals for Veterinary Education (WAVE) program. This program offers pet owners a unique and meaningful opportunity to honor their departed furry friends by donating their bodies to veterinary education. These selfless donations become an invaluable resource for our students, providing essential hands-on learning experiences that shape the next generation of compassionate veterinarians.

By participating in the WAVE program, you not only contribute to the advancement of veterinary medicine but also play a vital role in celebrating the lives of our animal companions. Together, we create a lasting legacy, where the love and care we shared with our pets can continue to make a profound impact on the well-being of animals in the future. Your pet’s journey does not end with their passing; it lives on through education, healing, and compassion. Join us in this heartwarming initiative and be part of something truly extraordinary—the WAVE program at Western University of Health Sciences College of Veterinary Medicine. Together, we’ll continue to make a difference in the lives of animals for generations to come.

With kindest regards,

Kathleen Manzanares, WAVE Coordinator

“Our pet is only one of the true heroes who will help veterinary students learn the skills and knowledge to better serve our family pets and provide for the health and quality of life for all kinds of animals.”

WAVE donor
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  • The WAVE Mission

    At the Western University of Health Sciences College of Veterinary Medicine, we believe that no animals should be harmed for the sake of education. We truly believe in, and cherish, the profound bond between humans and their beloved animal companions. For these reasons, we established the Willed deceased Animals for Veterinary Education (WAVE) program.

    This program offers pet owners a unique and meaningful opportunity to honor their departed pets by donating them to veterinary education, giving them an even greater purpose beyond death. These selfless donations become an invaluable resource for our students, providing essential hands-on learning experiences that shape the next generation of compassionate veterinarians who will go on to care for other animals who will benefit from their education.

    By choosing to donate your deceased pet to veterinary education through our WAVE program, you can make a lasting difference in the world of animal care.

  • Why Donate to the WAVE Program?

    Your selfless act of donation not only celebrates the profound bond you shared with your pet, but also serves to empower the next generation of veterinarians.

    Through hands-on learning with real animal specimens, our students gain invaluable insights that shape their skills and compassion. Your pet’s legacy becomes a vital source of knowledge, nurturing future healers who will touch countless lives and standing as a testament to the love and care that defined your time together. It becomes a heartfelt tribute to their memory. Your generosity paves the way for a brighter future, where improved veterinary practices enhance the well-being of animals everywhere.

    Join us in this noble cause – one that honors the lives of our beloved companions while igniting the flame of knowledge and empathy in the hearts of aspiring veterinarians. Your contribution matters, and through it, the spirit of your pet lives on, touching lives in ways that are beyond measure. Together, let’s create a legacy of compassion and everlasting care.

    View our WAVE flyer here…

  • How To Donate…

    When the time comes close to your pet’s passing*, please inform your veterinarian or their staff of your decision to donate to the WAVE program. Your veterinary team will contact our WAVE coordinator to start the process. Alternatively, you may reach out to us directly, and we will guide you through the donation process with sensitivity and care.

    The WAVE program will communicate with your veterinarian and will take care of all transportation and document collection for your pet. When your pet has contributed all it can to the education of future veterinarians, your pet’s remains will be cremated and returned to you in a custom wooden box, if you wish to have them returned.

    *Please note that we are only able to accept donations of animals who have had a special bond with caring owners like you. Animals without owners that are euthanized secondary to the “over-population problem” are not eligible to be part of the WAVE program.

  • What to expect…

    We understand that the decision to donate your beloved pet’s body to our Willed Deceased Animals for Veterinary Education (WAVE) program is both sensitive and heartfelt. Rest assured, we honor each animal and client with the utmost respect throughout the entire process. Our dedicated team is here to support you, ensuring that your your beloved companion will be treated with the utmost care and reverence as they become a vital part of our educational mission.

  • Women, scrubs, cat.

    Donate To The WAVE Program

    Thank you for your consideration to donate to the Willed deceased Animals for Veterinary Education (WAVE) Program. Every donation plays an integral part in not only upholding our College’s mission to never harm animals for the sake of education, but also supports the education of future veterinarians who will go on to be compassionate, experienced veterinarians. Your donation today can help countless animals tomorrow.

    You may request to donate directly through your veterinarian, or connect to our WAVE Coordinator who will help you understand the process.
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    Pet Memorial Program

    The Pet Memorial Program (PMP) was developed to assist those who do not wish to participate in the WAVE program, but still wish to support the education of the next generation of compassionate, skilled veterinary healers while memorializing the relationship that existed with cherished pets. The death of a pet is a significant event for everyone involved, with the void created by such a loss stimulating memories of fulfillment, joy and friendship that developed over a lifetime of companionship. Many choose to seek opportunities to enhance the meaning of their loss by memorializing such an important relationship through donation.