The Alberta Spay Neuter Task Force has had an amazing year. In 2008, we spayed or neutered 173 animals and rescued 103 dogs and 6 cats. We are so grateful to the many rescue groups who support our work. In addition, a total of 51 dogs have been vaccinated and treated for parasites at our clinics.

Our September 2008 Blood Tribe Dog Wellness Clinic was a “dry run” where we rented a veterinary clinic and brought in vets, techs and surgical equipment to see if we are prepared to host on-site clinics. We are thrilled to report that it was very successful! 63 dogs received surgery with no reported complications. In addition, from this “safe site”, we were able to compile equipment and medical supply lists.

In November 2008, three board members travelled to Edmonton to make a presentation to the Alberta Veterinary Medical Association Council members in the hope of gaining approval for on-site clinics.

In January 2009, The Alberta Veterinary Medical Association approved, in principle, the operation of spay and neuter projects for First Nations communities where dog overpopulation has become a problem.  A committee of the council is working on developing standards for these projects.
 
This is the first step in moving towards on-site spay/neuter events with First Nation communities who have approached the Alberta Spay Neuter Task Force, or other groups, for assistance in managing their dog populations.

>We are planning at least two Blood Tribe Dog Wellness Clinics for 2009. We also look forward to facilitating the Northern Dogs Conference with the World Society For the Protection of Animals in the Spring of 2009.

Thank-you so much to the many vets, techs, donors, rescue groups and volunteers who made all of this possible.

The Alberta Spay Neuter Task Force is a Member of the World Society for the Protection of Animals Member Society Network.