PetSmart Veterinary Services partnered with Cornerstone Animal Center to offer a five-year free lease. An additional $1.4 million grant from Maddie’s Fund will support the clinic’s first five years of operation. Photo via Cornerstone Animal Center

A $1.4 million grant and five-year lease will bring pet care to a Visalia pet store once its new clinic opens in April.

Cornerstone Animal Center will debut its clinic inside the Visalia PetSmart store, located at 4240 S. Mooney Blvd., on April 24, bringing with it preventative veterinary care, spay and neuter services, core vaccinations, microchipping and parasite control to Valley pets, according to a news release.

PetSmart Veterinary Services partnered with the provider to offer a five-year free lease. An additional $1.4 million grant from Maddie’s Fund will support the clinic’s first five years of operation.

“Services like spay and neuter, vaccines, and parasite prevention are basic healthcare that keep animals healthy, and in their homes,” said Cornerstone Animal Care Executive Director Cassie Heffington. “People love their pets, but oftentimes basic veterinary care is just out of reach. Cornerstone aims to help change that.”

Maddie’s Fund, a nonprofit foundation that provides grants, research and training to animal shelters and veterinary programs, has historically focused on expanding access to affordable veterinary care, specifically in underserved areas.

Cornerstone aims to remove cost barriers to basic veterinary care; vaccines start at $20, with $25 microchipping and spay and neuter services ranging from $75 to $250. The provider also offers additional discounts and payment plans.

Following its grand opening, Cornerstone Animal Care will expand its schedule, operating Monday through Friday from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. Services are available by appointment only. Appointments can be booked through the Cornerstone Animal Care website.