Getting Dogs in Bolivia the Essential Care They Need

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In Bolivia, a vet training center is helping the country’s dogs get essential medical care.

In the capital city of La Paz, Humane Society International (HSI) teaches trainees to become veterinary surgeons and assistants. A recent profile from The Humane Society’s blog describes how HSI is training high-quality vets across Latin America:

“With calculators in hand, trainees formulate customized anesthetic plans for their patients…Each patient has a dedicated anesthesiologist, and a veterinary surgeon guides the trainee through the procedure.”

Taking Care of Bolivia and Its Dogs

At over 12,000 feet above sea level, La Paz’s thin air makes for tough people and tougher dogs. Since 2014, HSI’s facility has raised veterinary standards in Bolivia and across Latin America. Every morning, families bring their pets in crates, cardboard boxes, and even sacks. Not surprisingly, the clinic has gained a reputation for giving quality care and access to pet parents without many options. Meanwhile, the country’s best vets teach trainees essential skills in surgery, pain management, and anesthesia. Afterward, trainees return to their home communities. There, they apply their skills in places where it’s most needed.

With over 200,000 stray dogs, performing safe spay and neuter operations is a critical goal. For one dog, Kitty, the training center saved her life. After living on the streets, battling strong weather and careless drivers, Kitty’s parent brought her into HSI’s clinic. There, she was humanely spayed and vaccinated, saving her from contracting various diseases.

Incredibly, now rural towns in Bolivia can access low-cost procedures that ensure dogs the help they need. Thanks to HSI, this is only the first step in developing a “growing local animal welfare movement” in Bolivia. Hopefully, the work they are doing will continue to grow, and more dogs can get the healthcare they deserve.

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