We've all heard countless stories about the relief efforts going on in the aftermath of the Haitian earth quake. Our hearts ache at the sights and sounds coming from our Caribbean neighbor. Being a Vet, I've often wondered about the effects of natural disasters on pets.
Is there an organization like Dr's Without Borders that helps animals in devastated areas like Haiti? Turns out there are a couple and one of them has been in Haiti almost since the beginning.
A French speaking US Veterinarian takes us on a tour of the devastation and its effects on the animal population of this island nation.
The HSVMA also performs good work domestically. I was heartened to see that they had a team visiting Indian country in the West, last summer. You might remember a post I did on
Navajo Dogs and the struggles for animal welfare on our Indian Reservations. Life is tough for many tribal members and it's tough for many of their pets, too.
Dr Eric Davis, the Director of Field Services at HSVMA, led a team of volunteer Veterinarians, Veterinary Technicians and Veterinary Students to several Western Reservations last summer. I'm not sure if they visited the Dine on the Navajo Rez, but they helped out on the White Mountain Apache reservation in Eastern Arizona, not far from my home in New Mexico.
Over the course of the summer
Dr Davis's team spayed and neutered thousands of rez dog and cats and provided basic veterinary care for countless more. They do good work and, as a Vet, I'm proud that we have a group like HSVMA. I may just have to become a member.
I still think about those dogs roaming our campground last summer. Nursing mother dogs looking for scraps. Judging from their condition it didn't look like they were getting enough food for themselves, let alone milk production for the pups.
The HSVMA relies on volunteers, donations and membership fees. Anyone can donate and you don't have to be a Veterinarian or Veterinary Technician to join. You can become an
affiliate member for a measly $25 a year. You'll get a newsletter in return that is full of stories to warm the heart of any animal lover. Give them a shot if you can.