Make Me Smile Program (MMSP)

A sub-committee of the FVD Outreach Committee that provides dental equipment donations and on-site training to shelter organizations and rescue facilities.

Purpose:

• Donate dental equipment and machines to humane societies, animal shelters, and rescue organizations
• Provide on-site training to shelter staff and veterinarians
• Enable shelters to deliver competent dental care to animals

Program Activity:

• Equipment Donations: Approximately 60 dental machines and 20+ imaging systems donated to date
• Recent Focus: Training and equipment updates to existing programs (e.g., Canine Companions for Independence Veterinary Clinic, Santa Rosa, CA)

Participating Organizations:

• Martinez Animal Shelter (Contra Costa County, CA) - First program (2013)
• Center Valley Animal Rescue (Quilcene, WA)
• Canine Companions for Independence (Santa Rosa, CA) - non-profit placing assistance dogs to disabled community
• Additional shelters and rescue facilities nationwide

Support Partners:

• Dentalaire (major equipment donor and partner)
• iM3 (equipment supplier)
• Foundation donations
• Volunteer veterinarians and dental specialists

Geographic Scope: United States

Volunteer Participation: Program relies on generous efforts and time from Board-Certified Veterinary Dentists and veterinary professionals

Application Process

Eligibility:

• Animal shelters and rescue organizations
• Non-profit animal facilities
• Organizations committed to providing dental care
• Facilities with veterinary staff capable of utilizing equipment

Application Steps:

1. Submit expression of interest to FVD Outreach Committee
2. Describe facility, current veterinary capacity, and dental care needs
3. Indicate commitment to staff training
4. Provide information on number of animals served
5. Identify veterinary team members for training participation

Program Components (if selected):

1. On-site Training: Conducted by board-certified veterinary dentists
2. Equipment Donation: Dental machines, imaging systems, instruments, and accessories
3. Wet Lab Sessions: Hands-on training with animals
4. Staff Education: Training for veterinarians, veterinary technicians, and assistants

Support Provided:

• Donated equipment installation and setup
• Equipment-specific training (e.g., DTX systems, workstations)
• Educational wet labs for clinical procedures
• Continuing support from volunteer specialists

Contact for Inquiries:
Mike Overend, Outreach Committee
admin@VeterinaryDentistry.org