It was February 23, 2026, the day record snowfall slammed the Northeast, forcing people to stay home amid blizzard warnings, transportation shutdowns and school and business closures. It was also the day that Rosa B. of Astoria planned to bring her dog, Francine, to the ASPCA Community Veterinary Clinic by The Rachael Ray Foundation™ in Queens. Rosa had previously called the clinic to report that Francine was experiencing bloody discharge from her vulva, lethargy and vomiting. But New York City was at a standstill, and the Queens clinic, along with many other businesses, was closed for the day. The next day, Rosa received a call from Sophia D’Amico, an ASPCA patient liaison, offering an emergency appointment. “Our Midwest Office got the ball rolling with an afternoon booking,” Sophia says. “But because of the urgency of Francine’s symptoms, we moved up the appointment.” Rosa and Francine braved snow-covered sidewalks and quickly plodded to the clinic. Rosa and Francine make their way to the clinic.…