People in Belize (Central America) love their animals, they are not kept as pampered pets but must earn their keep by hunting, protection, vermin control, companionship and more. However many families live a subsistence way of life and cannot afford vet fees to properly care for their animals.
We at CELA (Center for Engaged Learning Abroad) have come up with a win win solution. We currently offer veterinary courses to pre-vet students and in doing so we offer free animal welfare clinics to communities in Belize.
Our students get hands on, real time practice in delivering vitamins, dewormers, general check ups and even assist with Spay/Neuter surgeries and this experience helps in their application to Vet school when they return home.
Our clinics are not glamorous, often put together quickly in community centers, but they offer a real benefit to the animals, the communities and our students. We also couldn't do it without our vets giving up their weekends, donations of medicines, energy from the students and the humane societies spreading the word. This post is to "big up" everybody who takes part!
More info: celabelize.com
Team talk at the start of the day
Registration
Registration can be hectic
Waiting their turn
Mayan girl brings her cat for a check up
Mother and son wait with their dog
Sometimes families have many pets that need care
Boy waits with his puppy
You might not be smiling soon
Check-ups, vitamins and dewormer
Health check up
Teamwork pays off when the patient won't cooperate
It really is a team effort
Out for the count
Assisting with Surgery
Getting up close in surgery
Students get real hands on experience
We love seeing the personal growth in our students
Our glamourous surgical recovery area
Family waits for their dog after surgery
Things can get a little messy
Belize City Humane Society on hand with advice and sweet treats.
