Spay & Neuter street dogs of Huanchaco, Peru

Hello wonderful supporters,

We are officially one year away from returning to Huanchaco, Peru to conduct our biennial spay and neuter clinic! If previous experience has taught us anything, it is that July 2015 will be here in no time. Here is what we’re doing to prepare:

• Working with Amigo Fiel and individual supporters on the ground to locate an appropriate clinic space. The space will need to have good light, running water and, if possible, separate areas for checking patients in, performing surgeries and allowing for recovery time. In 2013 a supporter in Trujillo was kind enough to lend us her large apartment and we quickly turned it into a temporary clinic space. Next year we hope to have a bit more room : ).
• Gathering information on the possibility of using Zeuterin as a nonsurgical method of neutering male dogs. Our partners on the ground are trying to assess local attitudes towards the procedure, as well as determine whether the Peruvian government will allow our veterinarians to bring the drug into the country.
• Trying to firm up commitments from previous volunteers and people who have expressed interest. We generally keep an informal list of people who have said they would like to be part of future clinics and use this time to circle back and see if they can indeed participate.
• Sending funds to Amigo Fiel for their ongoing work in Huanchaco and Trujillo. Recently these funds have been used on a variety of important projects which include:

1. fumigation at the shelter to rid it of fleas and ticks. Because the shelter is open air in some areas, staff must remain vigilant to avoid infestations.
2. responding to kitten and puppy season. While the mother and her puppies featured below would warm anyone’s heart, it can be difficult to find permanent and safe homes for these animals, especially as they grow out of the puppy phase.
3. continuing the successful Perros monthly clinic. Not only have sterilizations taken place at the clinic, but sick and injured animals have also benefited from the tireless services of Dr. Ingrid.

We hope that all of you are well. Please let us know if you are ever visiting the Huanchaco area. We are happy to put any of our donors and supporters in touch with our partners on the ground, giving them the opportunity to visit the shelter and, if they are able, to assist in the clinical work being done with Perros Project funds.

Un abrazo grande (a big hug),

Courtney & Matt