Doney Coe Pet Clinic is proud to be the first no-cost veterinary clinic in the nation dedicated to serving individuals experiencing homelessness and low income. Our name honors our founders—Dr. Doney and Dr. Coe—whose pioneering vision continues to shape every aspect of our work. While not flashy or easily remembered, our name is a tribute to their legacy of compassionate, barrier-free care.

In 2018, we renamed the organization from The Doney Memorial Pet Clinic to Doney Coe Pet Clinic to formally recognize Dr. Coe’s lifetime of service to the community.

A feature in People Magazine brought national attention to our work in the clinic’s early years. Dr. Coe responded by generously sharing his expertise, helping others establish similar clinics across the country. Today, we carry that spirit forward and are committed to sharing what we’ve learned with other communities and providers—so more animals and the people who love them can access the care they deserve, wherever they are.

At the age of 50, Dr. Charles “Bud” Doney shifted his life’s focus toward giving back. A respected veterinarian, Dr. Doney was deeply moved by the growing number of people experiencing homelessness in downtown Seattle—especially those with beloved pets and no access to veterinary care. Determined to make a difference, he brought supplies from his for-profit clinic and, alongside his wife Nancy, treated two dogs at the very first free clinic, held in a small chapel at the Union Gospel Mission.

That humble beginning marked the birth of what would become our mobile field veterinary clinic.

Word of Dr. Doney’s compassion spread quickly, and it wasn’t long before clients began lining up hours before each clinic opened. Though Dr. Doney passed away in 1987 after only a few clinics, his legacy endures in every act of care we provide. His vision, shared and supported by Nancy, laid the foundation for a mission that continues to grow decades later.

In 1986, Dr. Stanley “Stan” Coe made a promise to carry on his friend’s legacy—and he delivered. Taking the reins of the clinic, Dr. Coe formally established the nonprofit organization that continues to serve today. For 45 years, until his retirement, he was the dedicated owner of Elliott Bay Animal Hospital. In the spirit of Dr. Doney, Dr. Coe treated every animal using his own supplies and equipment. When pets needed more advanced care or surgery, he transferred them to Elliott Bay Animal Hospital—always at no cost to their owners.

Dr. Coe’s lifelong commitment continues to inspire our volunteers and the next generation of veterinary professionals. A proud graduate of the College of Veterinary Medicine at Washington State University, Dr. Coe has since relocated to Pullman, WA, where he remains a passionate supporter of the WSU Cougars in both academics and athletics.

Doney Coe’s legacy of compassionate community service has been shaped by many talented individuals—among them, Don Rolf, a mammal behaviorist and founding member of the clinic. From the very beginning, Don stepped into any role needed to help the organization thrive. Whether building equipment for the mobile veterinary clinic or collecting donated food and supplies, his versatility and dedication have been instrumental.

Don’s wide-ranging skills helped establish Doney Coe Pet Clinic as a lasting and vital resource in the community. Today, he continues to share his knowledge and inspire new generations of volunteers. His commitment laid the foundation for the clinic’s operations, and he remains a valued member of our Board of Directors.

For 35 years, Doney Coe Pet Clinic has been a trusted source of compassionate care in our community. In June 2022, our ability to serve grew exponentially thanks to an extraordinary act of generosity. Dr. Mona Radheshwar—a longtime volunteer and passionate advocate—donated a fully equipped and stocked veterinary clinic, giving Doney Coe its first permanent home.

This transformational gift has allowed us to expand our services, offering on-site veterinary care and surgical procedures with the aid of advanced diagnostic tools. Dr. Mona’s commitment to the belief that no one should be denied care due to financial hardship reflects the very heart of our mission.

We are deeply grateful for Dr. Radheshwar’s vision and support. Her generosity is a powerful reminder of what’s possible when community members step forward to make a difference. If you are inspired by her story, we invite you to join us in continuing this legacy of care.

On February 28, 2024, Doney Coe Pet Clinic celebrated a new chapter as Board President Marti Casey joined King County Executive Dow Constantine, and Dr. Gene Mueller, manager of Regional Animal Services of King County, to open the clinic's new permanent location in Seattle’s SoDo neighborhood. Housed in a formerly vacant King County building, this move strengthens the clinic’s ability to provide no-cost veterinary and wellness care to eligible pets and their people.

After nearly a year operating from a temporary space in White Center, Doney Coe now offers regular clinic services every Wednesday and Thursday from its new home at 1101 Airport Way S. in addition to the bi-monthly Saturday clinics. The grand opening was marked by a symbolic “leash linking” ceremony, honoring the collaboration between King County and Doney Coe to remove barriers to essential pet care.