Isabela, San Cristobal and Santa Cruz Islands, Galapagos
This year, we have had the great honor of working alongside the Agencia de Regulacion y Control de la Bioseguridad para Galapagos (ABG) to run sterilization campaigns in the three major inhabited islands of the Galapagos; Santa Cruz, San Cristobal and Isabela. Together, DAD and ABG provide sterilization services in areas where there is no or little veterinary care available for the number of animal residents. Such campaigns help ensure that each animal in Galapagos has access to veterinary care, and allow for the further humane control of the population of introduced species. Together, these goals help protect the unique and magical ecosystem of the Galapagos.
Over this year, the team have run these campaigns monthly and we have been reporting to you throughout the year how these campaigns have been going. As a few campaigns have gone by, we though it was about time that you heard just how well these campaign have been going…
Isabela
From June 18th to 20th, the team ran a campaign in Isabela island with a total of 37 animals being sterilized. Furthermore, the team were able to provide additional medical services to animals with other medical complaints. The Doctors were able to diagnose and begin treatment for a dog with multiple swellings covering his body and were able to remove a large tumor from the ear of a cat. Further, the team performed a pinnectomy – the removal of some of the outer ear flap – on a dog in need of help. All-round, the campaign was a great success and the team were able to help animals who would otherwise have nowhere to turn to.
“These campaigns need to continue on the islands, especially Isabela were veterinary care is not accessible.” – Dr. Justin
San Cristobal
On the 2nd, 3rd and 4th of July, the team visited San Cristobal to conduct another spay and netuer campaign. This campaign was the most successful to date, with the team performing 91 sterilization surgeries and two additional surgeries for animals in need. Furthermore, the team also conducted general consultations for animals with other varying medical complaints. The DAD/ABG team were extremely satisfied with the result and were amazed at what they could achieve together.
“Everyday we were able to do more and more animals. This campaign was really the example of why these campaigns need to continue. A big thank you to the team, ABG and to all the owners that made the decision to sterilize their animals.” – Dr. Stella
Santa Cruz
From the 16th to 18th of July, it was Santa Cruz Island’s turn for a campaign. During this campaign, a total of 22 animals were spayed and neutered, reaching more animals and giving the volunteer team more experience and practice in surgical preparation and aftercare.
With both July campaigns together, a total of 113 animals were spayed and neutered, additional to those sterilized in the clinic during this time.
Isabela
On the 1st and 2nd of August, the team ran another sterilization campaign on Isabela. In just two days, the team performed 32 sterilization surgeries. The team did an amazing job, working long hours, to conduct such a number of surgeries in such a short time. On top of these surgeries, the team assisted a variety of other animals where were in desperate need of medical care. Their incredible stories will be shared shortly.
“The campaign showed us again that Isabela needs a vet – not only to perform elective surgeries to reduce the amount of free roaming dogs and cats, but also to help the sick animals in need.” – Drs. Stella and Justin.
Since the beginning of this year, these DAD/ABG campaigns have led to the sterilization of 400 cats and dogs – on top of those sterilized in our clinic daily. With five more planned campaigns for this year, we expect to sterilize a large number of additional cats and dogs – reducing their impact on the local ecosystem. These campaigns are extremely important for the protection of the Galapagos, but also allow us to take a big step forward in our goal to ensure that all animals have access to veterinary care.
Congratulations to the amazing clinic team and to the dedicated members of the ABG who have ensured such success in these campaigns so far this year. We look forward to reporting their continued success throughout the rest of this year.
Help us continue to run these campaigns year round! Donate today.