Welcome to Team Fred SPCA, Dr. Aebli!

The Fredericksburg SPCA announced in February a temporary pause on select programs and services following the departure of its Veterinarian-in-Charge (VIC), which created operational challenges for both shelter and community-based programs. VIC oversight is essential to shelter operations, as this role establishes medical protocols, ensures compliance with state veterinary regulations, and oversees the administration of vaccines, medications, surgeries, and disease control. Without a licensed veterinarian in this critical role, the Fredericksburg SPCA was forced to limit animal intake to maintain compliance and ensure access to medical care through offsite veterinary partners while actively recruiting a replacement. 

The Fredericksburg SPCA announced this week that it has signed local veterinarian and founder of Auravet, Dr. Lindsey Aebli, to serve as interim Veterinarian-in-Charge. With Dr. Aebli in this role, the organization can resume operations and begin processing intake requests from local county shelters that rely on transfer partnerships to prevent unnecessary euthanasia.

Under her oversight, essential medical services, including vaccinations, preventive care, and coordination of spay and neuter procedures, will resume, supporting the efficient transition of animals from intake to adoption. The Fred SPCA’s People Empowered Through Support program will also benefit from this partnership, with future plans to continue vaccine clinics and expand community care through more accessible, low-cost sick and wellness appointments during scheduled events.

“At its core, Auravet is about showing up for our community and providing veterinary care that supports both pets and the people who love them,” says Dr. Lindsey Aebli. “My goal has always been to make veterinary care more accessible for pets and their families. This partnership allows us to continue and expand that work, ensuring more animals receive the care they need while supporting an organization that does so much for our community. I’m grateful for the opportunity to support our local SPCA and help strengthen access to care for animals throughout the area.”

Dr. Lindsey Aebli is no stranger to bringing vet care where it is needed. She founded Auravet with a vision of making thoughtful, compassionate veterinary care more accessible for pets and the people who love them, a passion deeply in line with the Fred SPCA’s mission of keeping families together through resources and education. A mixed animal veterinarian serving Northern Virginia since 2018, Dr. Aebli has experience caring for a wide range of species across homes, farms, and barns. Her approach is grounded in the belief that veterinary medicine should feel personal, supportive, and adaptable to each pet and family’s needs. She also has significant experience in animal welfare and shelter medicine, having previously served as Veterinarian-in-Charge for a large county animal shelter. 

“This partnership is transformative for both vulnerable animals in need of care and the families in our community who rely on us for support,” said Brittany McNulty, Practice Manager and Licensed Veterinary Technician at the Fredericksburg SPCA Locke Community Medical Center. “With Dr. Aebli stepping in as Veterinarian-in-Charge, we can once again say yes to animals who need us while expanding access to essential community care. We are proud to welcome such a strong and compassionate partner to our team.”

The Fredericksburg SPCA has begun reopening services to move animals toward adoption and will continue keeping the community informed about upcoming events and programs. The Fred SPCA Locke Community Medical Center is currently caring for shelter animals, with plans to hire additional veterinarians to expand both shelter and public services.

To learn more about Auravet and book an appointment for your pet, visit auravetcare.com