Although there is still room for improvement, I have seen this need being actively addressed in my community. Since my district does not have a veterinarian, the local health post organizes rabies vaccination campaigns. I have accompanied nurses as they walk many miles to vaccinate dogs in different neighborhoods.
When we do these visits, families receive a special collar to show that their dog has been vaccinated, along with a document to help them keep track of their pet’s vaccines. In some cases, we even use the ambulance to reach faraway communities, where families rarely make it to the town center.
In addition to vaccinations, we visit schools to teach students and parents about the importance of caring for pets and community animals. Through education and meeting people where they are, I have seen firsthand how local professionals work together to protect public health in rural Peru.
Along the way, I’ve also met many friendly furry companions, including my host family’s puppies, who are all up to date on their vaccinations! My host family even travels to the next town to visit a veterinarian, showing how education and community effort can make a real difference.
