From a Volunteer's Perspective... Working at the Spay & Neuter Clinic

I have been volunteering at the free Spay & Neuter Clinics in Rincon de Guayabitos, La Penita, La Colonia and Los Ayala for the past 4 years. These Clinics are organized by PEACE and Jaltemba Bay Animal Rescue (JBAR). I have witnessed firsthand, the dramatic change in attitude of the local people because of what they've learned at these Clinics... how to take care of their animals, how to bathe them, and what to feed them (not just a few tortillas). A few years ago, they used to bring in their animals... now, they are proud to bring in their "pets". These animals have names, they have collars, and they are well loved. And if you walk the beaches, you will notice that there are far less stray dogs in the area... this too, is due to the great work of the Clinics. It has been an incredible transformation, and in such a short period of time.

The last Clinic was just held in Guayabitos from February 17-20, and it was a huge success. During this 4-day Clinic, we took in a whopping 153 animals, 144 of which we sterilized. This is a new PEACE record.

This is one of the most rewarding things I have ever been a part of. I am so proud to be able to give my time to this wonderful project, with these amazing people all dedicated to helping change the lives of the animals!

Allyson Williams

Proud PEACE and JBAR Volunteer

---

During the February Clinic in Guayabitos, Dr. Malcolm Macartney and his team from Victoria, BC, volunteered their time and talents. Here is a description of his experience...

"I was expecting to come into an area overrun with mangy stray dogs and cats that needed a great deal of veterinary attention, but to my surprise the animal scene in Rincon de Guayabitos, La Penita and Los Ayala seemed to be fairly good from an outsider's perspective. During the week that we spent at the Clinic, and in the town talking to locals and gringos, I became aware that it was because of the long-term efforts of the Jaltemba Bay Animal Rescue and PEACE Mexico that things have so dramatically changed for animal welfare this past decade. Lin, Lacy, Ally, the other volunteers, and PEACE should be congratulated for their efforts.

Myself, Dr. Diane Cruickshank and two animal health technicians, Jen and Sorcha, from our clinic in Victoria, British Columbia, traveled with suitcases full of surgical and medical supplies for the four-day long Clinic in Guayabitos. Lacy and Paul Mutch graciously allowed us to stay at their beautiful home for the week, which worked out well as it was situated close to the Clinic.

The work was hectic and hard on my back. For a volunteer-run Clinic it ran like a well-greased machine. Experienced and new volunteers from the community worked hard during the Clinic. Some told me they had worked these Clinics for at least the past 5 years, and that it was the highlight of their winter months in Mexico!

There were teams of people who managed the patient intake, recovery, autoclave room, and surgery... all amazingly talented and cheerful folks. They kept us busy in the surgery suite. During this Clinic 144 pets and strays were sterilized, and also treated for worms, ticks, fleas, and lice over the course of the Clinic. Quite a feat, especially since it rained and blew hard for two of the days.

Dr. Antonio Carillo, Lalo, Paulina and the rest of the PEACE team were simply outstanding in their skills and knowledge. They made us feel welcome, and it was nice to get to know them outside of the Clinic setting as well. I learned a lot from them. The combined experience of working with all of the Clinic people, and helping improve the lives of animals made this a very worthwhile experience that I know the staff of the McKenzie Veterinary Services want to be a part of in the future. We'll be back!"

Dr. Malcolm Macartney

McKenzie Veterinary Services

Victoria, BC Canada