Vet students promote Animal Welfare and Public Health thru the ATIMAN Initiative

The Veterinary Medicine Clinicians Club (VMCC) from Cebu Technological University Barili Campus marked a significant achievement in promoting animal welfare and public health by organizing free pet veterinary services and free seminars for pet owners.

 A total of 284 pets received free veterinary services, including spaying, neutering, vitamin supplementation, deworming, shampoo, dog food, and essential vaccinations on June 5-7, 2024, in an event organized by Veterinary Medicine students, particularly the Veterinary Medicine Clinicians Club (VMCC). Throughout the 3-day event, 172 pet owners actively participated, representing a community dedicated to the well-being of their pets.

The first day featured an engaging seminar that enlightened pet owners on nutrition, responsible pet ownership, and information on available pet products. The session was instrumental in educating the community on the importance of proper pet care. During the first day, comprehensive pre-screening was also conducted to ensure all pets were eligible for the services. Pre-screening is essential, especially for spaying and neutering procedures.

Thirty-one pets were successfully treated for the spay and neuter program the second day. This program is crucial in controlling the pet population and enhancing their well-being. Another seminar focused on business and company-related topics was conducted on the second day. The office of the Municipal Agriculturist of LGU Barili, through Dr. Ryan Paul Gonato, provided an additional five vials of anti-rabies vaccine, ensuring the vaccination drive continues without interruption.

On the third day, the robust vaccination drive continues with the aim to protect numerous pets with essential vaccines, including those against rabies. The organizers also distributed additional deworming, vitamins, shampoo, and dog food.

The ATIMAN, which stands for Advocacy, Training, Innovations, Medicine, Animals, and Nurturing (ATIMAN) initiatives, stands as a testament to the power of community and collaboration in enhancing animal welfare and public health. This comprehensive effort promoted animal welfare and underscored the community’s commitment to ensuring the health and happiness of their animal companions.

The event’s success was made possible by the dedication of numerous volunteer experts, including Dr. Jennifer A. Laurente, Dr. Zandro O. Perez, Dr. Serafin Garciano, Jr., Dr. Adrian P. Ybanez, Dr. Cindy Rose Villordon, Dr. Hereshey Mondejar, Dr. Ryan Paul Gonato, and the Office of the Municipal Agriculturist of LGU Barili.  

The initiative received generous support from sponsors, including Cebu Animal Doctors’ Hospital, PhilVets (Veterinary Products Trading), Univet Nutrition & Animal Healthcare Company Inc. (UNAHCO), Animal Wellness Veterinary Hospital and Clinics, Canis et Felis’ Veterinary Clinic, CTU Society for the Advancement of Veterinary Education and Research (CTU SAVER), Pilmico Feeds, and Rare Pet Care Veterinary Services.   

via Ruel Alfred A. Salazar Jr.