OSU Gets New Ambulance!

Thursday, August 24, 2017

Thanks to Kelly and Cheryl Johnson of Ponca City, Okla., Oklahoma State University’s Center for Veterinary Health Sciences is sporting a brand new veterinary ambulance cart. Designed and built by Custom Mechanical Equipment located in Ponca City, the couple donated the ambulance to the Center’s Veterinary Medical Hospital for patient use. The Johnsons own Quality Water Services based in Ponca City with offices in Stillwater and Arkansas City, Kan. An avid animal lover, Cheryl is also involved with the Humane Society in Ponca City.

“It was literally made from the ground up except for the wheels and the steering mechanism, which were bought,” explains Kelly. “It is powder coated so it should last for a long time. Both sides drop down if you have a larger animal that you need to transport from the parking lot to the Hospital or vice versa.”

The idea for the cart actually came from the Hospital. Kelly, an OSU graduate, and Cheryl a lover of all animals provided for the OSU Veterinary Medical Hospital several years ago. Wanting to do special projects as they are able during their lifetime, they asked what the Hospital could use and an animal transport cart was mentioned.

“The concept was taken to a local manufacturer in Ponca City. They as well are very much OSU fans and when you put two OSU fans together, anything is possible. The outcome is what we have today,” added Kelly as he and his wife presented the finished product to Hospital staff and veterinarians.

According to Kelly, the project took on a life of its own. The designer, Wendell Clement, and the owners of Custom Mechanical Equipment, Erick Peitz and his family, had a blast with it. Clement would send Johnson progress photos, which he would then share with the Hospital. 

“It was just cool to see it come together. I think you’re going to like it. I know a lot of the veterinarians in our area refer a lot of owners and their pets to Stillwater to the Vet School,” said Kelly. I think it’s an outstanding service. I think having a pet in one’s life just compliments it, as do children. Pets are always giving and don’t take much. Our love of OSU and my wife’s love for the animals, their health and well-being, made today such an easy choice.”

“We are exceptionally grateful for the Johnsons long-term commitment to the health and well-being of animals treated at the Hospital but also for engaging and understanding our current needs and working to make them a reality,” said Bruce Williamson, hospital administrator. “This cart will be a significant and highly visible pride point for our Hospital. It also serves to enhance the visibility of our new Grateful Client Program, an opportunity for those who love animals and have interactions with the Hospital to give back.”

If you would like to support Oklahoma State University’s Center for Veterinary Health Sciences, please contact Chris Sitz, senior director of development at the OSU Foundation, at csitz@osugiving.com or (405) 385-5170.