Affordable Pet Care Clinic Eases Financial Burden on Pet Owners During Responsible Pet Ownership Event
An affordable pet care clinic hosted by the Department of Agriculture and Guam Animals In Need (GAIN) provided a much-needed lifeline for pet owners on Guam during a responsible pet ownership event over the weekend. The clinic, held at the Mongmong-Toto-Maite mayor’s office pavilion, offered a comprehensive package of essential services for just $25, significantly lower than the standard rate of nearly $200.
According to Mathew Demapan, an animal control officer with Agriculture’s Division of Animal Health, the lack of responsible pet ownership has contributed to the island’s large stray dog population. Many stray dogs are the result of neglect, improper care, or lack of proper containment, leading to overpopulation issues.
The collaboration between the Department of Agriculture and GAIN aimed to address these issues by providing pet owners with affordable access to services such as rabies vaccinations, pet licenses, and microchipping. Demapan emphasized the importance of responsible pet ownership and the impact it can have on reducing the stray animal population on the island.
Guam currently holds the title of a rabies-free island, thanks in part to laws requiring all dogs and cats three months or older to be licensed and vaccinated. The outreach event not only helped pet owners comply with these regulations but also provided a much-needed service for those who may not be able to afford regular veterinarian care for their pets.
Animal control officer Michelle Santos highlighted the importance of events like these in ensuring that all residents have access to affordable pet care services. The goal is to continue hosting similar outreach events quarterly, reaching residents across the island to promote responsible pet ownership and reduce the stray animal population.
Overall, the affordable pet care clinic was a success in easing the financial burden on pet owners and promoting responsible pet ownership practices on Guam. With the support of organizations like GAIN and the Department of Agriculture, efforts to address the stray animal population and promote animal welfare on the island are making a positive impact.
