Using Animal Care to Promote Empathy in Children

Our community veterinary clinic in 2018 had some pretty impressive results:

• 151 dogs and cats were provided with veterinary services (60 were spayed or neutered; additional 91 received a full range of clinical services).

• 15 education sessions were conducted at community level (1 preschool with 31 parents and 50 children; 9 schools with 234 staff and 4,198 students; and at 5 dip tanks for surrounding community members).

• 2 radio sessions shared personal testimonies from participants to national audience.

These results are only possible working in partnership - with yourself and Wild at Heart, who provided the financial resources to make this clinic happen; with the Swaziland Veterinary Association, who donate their services; with Swaziland Animal Welfare Society, who coordinate all technical requirements; and with Waterford Kamhlaba’s community service group AWARE.

As part of United World College, students at Waterford Kamhlaba (www.waterford.sz) are actively involved in community service. Their AWARE group plays an important role in our community veterinary clinic - they assist the vets and oversee the recovery room, and help with all the not so glamous tasks needed to set up and clean up.

Eleven students from eleven countries assisted us in 2018:

Elshaddai (Malawi) - I think it was an eye-opening experience because I actually thought it was easy to operate on animals but after seeing operations first hand, it changed my mind. It made me more aware of the well being of animals and I am glad for that.

Lisa (Netherlands and Tanzania) - I’ve always known that when it comes to domestic animals, not a lot of attention is given, but after seeing all the dogs and cats under weight, it made me realize how important our service is to not only them, but their owners. I really enjoyed helping out at this clinic, even if there are still thousands of dogs without any care.

Mona (Belgium, Mozambique) - This weekend, no matter how much work it was, I felt like I was making an actual difference to the community we were working in.

Stephen (Irish) - It was a fine job we did and I feel that the service we helped provide has had a profound effect on not only hygiene and safety, but also on the trust between the community and service providers such as us. It’s good.

Sarvesh (Nepal) - I was very grateful to be part of this event. I learnt a lot and had the opportunity to use and showcase the abilities I have learnt. I really loved the things all of us did and even to get out of our comfort zones and contribute the most we could. Everyone loved the opportunity where we could make some contribution like this (humanity, helpful, aware). I would be ready to help again.

Sedt (South Africa) - I was impressed that most people in the community made such an effort to bring their animals to the clinic. It was also interesting to observe the vets and learn a few things about operating on dogs. The weekend was hard work but very enjoyable and a valuable experience.

Sameel (Pakistan) - I enjoyed the experience, although bit overwhelming at times. I feel as if I have achieved something special and I believe that this clinic is making the lives of the pets and owners easier.

Abigail (Canada) - These last few days I have been able to get out of my comfort zone and enjoy myself while doing so. I’m very grateful for the encouraging people and the adorable animals that helped me do so.

Kandi (South Africa) - It never fails to amaze me how humanity can gather together and perform great feats of kindness, in order to help our in their community. My faith for humanity is restored when I participate in community services such as these.

Iyara (South Africa) - I felt and still feel a great sense of achievement after this clinic. I learnt new things and overcame a few challenges. I would definitely do it again.

Bobbie (eSwatini) - One phrase to describe this weekend: eye opening! Animal welfare in Swaziland is something that needs a lot more funding and attention

We are already receiving requests from community members as to when the next clinic will be. With your help, we are planning for June 8, 2019.

Links:

• http://www.vusumnotfo.org