Spanky Project

Clinica Laika Sept 27

2011-11-10T19:48:00.036-05:00

On this morning we held a small campaña at Clinica Laika in Habana Vieja.
For those of you that follow our blog you will know this is a home away from home for us.

As always proper attire is required.

Gladys, does it really take three guys to dress you?

Yamilis Correa from our sponsoring Cuban NGO brought her cat to the campaña.

It takes many people to make these campañas run smoothly.
Téc. Jordan Acosta Moya, from Quinta de los Molinos, always joins us and oversees the recovery room.

He also administers an antibiotic injection and tattoos the patient's ear.

Natacha Nuñes, a teacher at the Veterinary Schools, attended with one of her students.
Yordan shows the student his tattoo technique.

Dra. Arely Estébanez Suarez & Dr. Víctor Luís Montané work together.

Dra. Susana Landrian Iglesias

Even will all our efforts to provide a safe procedure there are sometimes complications.

Vlad is one of numerous dogs that are cared for by workers of various institutions in
Havana Vieja. In this case the Museo Orfebrería (silverware).

Dr.Belovich administered fluids, we brought from Canada, and kept watch over Vlad until his release.

On this morning...
dogs 5 neuters 4 spays
cats 2 neuters 5 spays
total 16

Once the instruments are packed away the collaboration continues.

Dr. Alexei Cabrera
Dr.Byron Maas
Dr.Michael Belovich
and
Dr.Fernando Gispert
get together to consult on an x-ray.

The sharing of experiences and techniques is a very important part of the
Spanky Project's mandate.

Not all of these involve veterinary care.

Alexei gives Byron an orientation and explains the technical aspects of his 1948 Whizzer.

Monday September 26

2011-10-21T19:16:00.039-04:00

Up and out early, we headed for San Miguel de Pedron.

We arrived at the Consultorio veterinario Dra Danis Rivero Garcés.
The Spanky Project and Dra.Danis have been collaborating since June 2009

We are here to deparasitize and vaccinate 50 dogs in preparation for a sterilization campaña in late November.

They came in various shapes and sizes.

Thanks to Sergio Chan and Bayer for their ongoing support of Cubans and their animals.
Bayer donated Drontal Plus for the deparasitization part of our campaign.

After lunch we headed to Finca Vigia to check in with our four legged friends.

Dr.B brought a "doggy bag" of lunch leftovers.

Once the dogs were taken care of Ada Rosa, directora of Finca Vigia, gave our group a tour.

We had the great privledge of going inside to view the newly restored Hemingway kitchen.Our official day wound up with a visit to Clinica Veterinaria Laika in Habana Vieja.
This is a clinic where we work each trip.
This visit was to prepare for the next day's sterilization campaña and to present a surprise or two.
Little did we know the first surprise would be for us. Waiting to greet us upon our arrival was the newly appointed director of

Clínica Veterinaria ¨Jose Luis Callejas¨on Calle Carlos III,
Dr. Rafael Pino Ventosa

Dr.Pino was an absolute pleasure to meet with.
He extended the use of his clinic to host any campaigns we care to hold.
¨Jose Luis Callejas¨ is a large facility which once housed the veterinary school.

Our first surprise for Clinica Laika was a generous donation from Marilou of Vacaville, California.
The tattoo outfit will be used to mark each furry patient post sterilization.
Dr.Belovich presented the second surprise.
This came courtesy of Dr.B's mother.
A laptop computer loaded with digitized veterinary text books ... mostly in Spanish.

If you have recently upgraded to a new laptop, I can find a loving home for your recent discard.
We clean the hard drives and then load them with veterinary texts.

Wishlist Wednesday

2011-10-04T21:18:00.023-04:00

We're back !

What a wonderful week.

Thanks go to the veterinarians at Jose Marti Airport.
They had their carbon paper at the ready to facilitate our entry.
As always, we arrived with our supplies pre-cleared by MINVEC/EMED and the Institute of Veterinary Medicine (IMV)

Our four bags, totaling over 200 lbs, took care of our checked baggage allowance.
Thanks to those of you who have delivered donations during your vacations.

This allows us to concentrate on the delivery of medicine, anesthetics and other supplies with which "travelers" would not be able to enter.

Our hosts for the week were Evora and Manuel at Prado#20
I take every opportunity I can to book into this
Casa Particulare.
With views like this, why would you stay anywhere else?

After spending the day finalizing details for the week's program Susana, Spanky Project's Coordinator, had a wonderful invitation for us.
We were invited to a performance at the Teatro Nacional de Cuba by Danza Libre dance troupe from Guantanamo Province.

Susana, on the left, searches in here bag while and her good friend Danza Libre's Director Alfredo Velazquez looks on.

After the show...

... Dr.Belovich bought dinner. Jeje !

Looking forward to future reports on this trip ...
Sterilization campañas
"Desparasitación Masiva de Mascotas"
Collaboration with Cuban Veterinary students
and the
signing of an important agreement.

++++
It's Wishlist Wednesday.
Here is a short list of needs.

Antibiotics:
Amoxil: 100 mg capsule, 200 or 250 mg capsules:
Cephalexin:ie Novolexin 250 mg tabs/caps
Amoxil/Clavulanic acid: ie Bioclav or Clavamox 62.5mg & 125mg or Clavaseptin 50mg & 250mg
Enrofloxacin: Baytril 15mg & 50 mg
Marbofloxacin: Zenequin 25 mg & 50 mg
Clindamycin: Antirobe 25mg/ml suspension or 25 mg capsules

Non-steroidal Anti-Inflammatories
Meloxicam: 20 mg/ml injectable 20 ml or 1.5 mg/ml suspension 10 and 32 ml bottles
Rimadyl: 25 mg tablets or 75 mg tablets – bottles of 60 or 180
Previcox: all sizes

Suture Needles – to be used with cassettes of suture
Reverse Cutting 3/8th circle #13 – come in packages of 10 (for dogs)
Reverse Cutting 3/8th circle #20 – come in packages of 10 (for cats)

Suture Casettes
Catgut Medium Chromic 2/0 50 m cassette
Supramid 2/0 100m cassette

Suture
Monocryl 2/0 Y943H FS1 dyed
Monocryl 3/0 Y923H FS2 dyed

Needles :
22 g ¾ inch box of 100
25 g 3/8 inch box of 100

Syringes:
3 cc with 22 g ¾ needles or 25 g needles
1 cc with 24 g 3/8th inch needles

Antiparasitic :
Ivermectine 1%
Spot on flea tick prevention
Droncit, Drontal Plus
Pyraquantal

Misc. :
Hot water bottles
Nail clippers
#40 shaver blades for Oster shavers

Thanks in advance for
helping Cubans help their animals !!

Busy end to the year.

2011-08-31T08:46:00.019-04:00

This year is rapidly coming to it's end.
With two "missions" in the planning, there hardly seems to be enough time ... or funding.

At the end of September the Spanky Project and Dr.Michael Belovich, of Toronto's
Yonge Street Animal Hospital, head to Havana.
We will supply and participate in ...
four sterilization campañas,
one massive deparasitation
and
two vaccination clinics.
(details to follow)

Emma Clifford, founder and director of Animal Balance, will join us for the week.
She will be meeting many of the dedicated groups and individuals that are helping Cuba's animals.
The hopeful result will be future collaborations with the Spanky Project in Cuba.

Also with us will be Christy Alcebo of Florida based Peluma .
We will be delivering over $5,000 worth of supplies.
Thanks to all who have donated via our PayPal link.

If you live in the USA, Animal Balance will accept donations and ear mark them for Cuba.
These fund will purchase supplies to be delivered from Canada.
They will also issue tax receipts.
Click here to go to Animal Balance's donation page.
Please be sure to specify Cuba or Spanky Project on your donation.
If you are located in Canada ... tax deductible donations can be made by cheque through Mackenzie Papineau Memorial Fund.
They are a Canadian registered charitable group.

mail cheques to:
Mackenzie-Papineau Memorial Fund,
Att: S. Skup, Treasurer
56 Riverwood Terrace,
Bolton, Ontario, L7E 1S4

Include your name, address and telephone number to ensure you receive a tax receipt.
Also, specify Spanky Project on the memo line.

In December the Spanky Project will return to Havana with a group of Canadian Veterinarians.
We will work in collaboration with our Cuban counterparts on a variety of veterinary projects.
We will also celebrate the second annual Cuba - Canada Veterinary Day.

It's been a busy year.

There will be a brighter future ... thanks to you.

Barrio Santo Angel

2011-08-06T09:15:00.030-04:00

At the mouth of the Havana harbour tunnel and spreading westward is the neighbourhood known as Santo Angel.

This is a barrio in transition.
The rejuvenation that has taken place in tourist-centered Habana Vieja is now spreading outward.

We are here to meet a community organizer and activist that is behind some of these changes.

As we walked down this street ...

... and up these stairs we had no idea what we were to encounter.

This building houses the salon of Gilberto Valladares Reina (Papito).

The walls are covered with “art related to the handling of scissors”.

Papito has quite a history. He was troublesome in his youth until he found his calling as a pelequero (hair stylist).
Now he gives the same opportunity to the youth of Havana by offering barber and styling courses at his school.
It too is filled with art ...

..some rather comic.

The neighbourhood is certainly being rejuvenated.

Calles Cuarteles is and example.

Two studio of note are ...

Estudio Martalena

located at

Cuarteles No: 64 e / Habana y Aguar Habana Vieja

and across the street ceramist Carlos Planas has his home and studio.

As I mentioned in my previous posting the area's veterinary "consultorio" is being renovated and will re-open in September.
Allow me to introduce Humberto

He is the head of this neighbourhood clinic.
The locals are very happy to have their clinic back.

Should you find yourself in need of some styling or
would just like to help the community drop by
Calle Aguiar #10, between Pena Pobre and Avenida de las Misiones.

I hear a style will run you 5 CUC.
You could always forgo the style,leave 5 CUC, and just have a look.

Tell them the Spanky Project sent you.

Not So Mean Streets

2011-06-26T21:35:00.000-04:00

These Havana streets are strangely comforting for me.
The same is true for many dogs.
The one above seems to call home the Estacionamento (parking area) adjacent to
Parque Central.

Not all dogs in the street are homeless.
For some, the streets are their home and they are often supported by the community.

This morning we met with Directora Guadalupe Ramos and Dr. Fernado Gispert of
Clinica Laika.
We began at the Museo del Chocolate.
Sadly, they were out of the Aztec hot chocolate.
Then we moved on to La Marina for lunch.

Gladys had been very troubled with the health of one of her cats. Eric el Rojo (Eric the Red) had stopped eating and exhibited other symptoms.
She brought Eric with her so Gispert could do an exam.

After a thorough examination, as thorough as one can be for a non clinical setting, and lots of palpation ... Gispert suggested blood work be done.
This is not an easy feat in Cuba. Veterinary laboratories are near non-existent.

After Eric was back in his carrier we got back to our discussions.

Dr. Gispert, in addition to being proud of his hat, is very happy with the work of the
Comisión de Esterilización.
The number of stray dogs in the streets have been visibly reduced.
Guadalupe and Fernando filled us in on how the work in Habana Vieja is progressing.
They also informed us that the Consultorio Veterinario in the Santo Angel barrio will be totally renovated and ready for opening in September.

To help celebrate the re-opening we have been invited to collaborate in a
Desparasitación Masiva de Mascotas.
Bayer's animal health division is supplying Advantage for over 400 dogs and cats.

+++

One of my favourite walks out of Habana Vieja is up Calle Teniente Rey.
It is a straight shot from Plaza Vieja to El Capitolio.
This route goes from the renovated and rejuvenated Vieja through real neighbourhoods to bustling Paseo de Marti.

This walk up Teniente Rey showed how successful the spay/neuter program for dogs has been.
In 2003 there were few cats visible except, funnily enough, in Barrio Chino.

Now that stray dog numbers have been dramatically reduced feral cats are populating the streets.

And the play grounds.

Preliminary discussions are ongoing with the end goal being a
Trap, Neuter & Release program for cats.
Spanky would approve.
These discussions will be picked up in September when the Spanky Project arrives with
Animal Balance.

El Capitolio

Centro Habana - Barrio Colón

2011-06-25T20:48:00.001-04:00

My lodging on this trip, as many trips before, was the Hotel Plaza.

A three star hotel that straddles the tourist haven Habana Vieja and the gritty Centro.

The roof top views at breakfast are great.

The rooms may be a little tired, but
the bed is firm and the linens clean.
Besides, I'm here to be on the streets not in the room.

After breakfast I was off to meet the Spanky Project's Cuban representative, Gladys, and coordinator, Susana.
These two ladies work so hard on behalf of the Spanky Project.
I will forever be indebted to them.

After catching up we hit the streets.

The aim of this trip was to set the stage for the September and November missions.
In September, the Spanky Project has the honour of introducing Animal Balance to Cuba.
This is a "feasibility visit"for Emma Clifford, the founder of Animal Balance.
Their mission statement ...
"Animal Balance believes that high volume, community based sterilization campaigns combined with rabies vaccination is the only humane, logical and sustainable strategy to combat the over population of cats and dogs and prevent the spread of rabies."
Their goals and world wide experience bode well for future collaborations in Cuba.

First stop, Centro.

The Spanky Project has had an ongoing relationship with the
Consultorio Veterinario - Centro Habana.

Photos by S.Hurlich

Magalis (left), the recently retired Consultorio Directora, and Regnit (botom), the current Directora, greeted us. Ibrahim (right) was attending to patients in the treatment area.

With the Comisión de Esterilización doing great work in Havana Vieja, we now have the opportunity to expand our efforts.

This meeting set the stage for that expansion.

Centro Habana is an area with many challenges.
With Animal Balance we will do a modest 25 sterilizations.
This will be a get to know you event and a chance to discuss larger campañas.

Perhaps we will see this guy in September.

On this day he certainly hit a mother load of entrails.

The Barrio Colón area of Centro is a vibrant, real community....

...that can use some help.
We will be here to help Cubans help their animals.

Passage to La Habana

2011-06-25T05:00:00.002-04:00

This late June afternoon found Skeeter
-- once again--
dropping me off
for my bus to Toronto's airport and an onward flight to Havana.
Door to door, these trips are usually a twelve hour haul.

Check- in opened three hours before the flight. Well before that, Cubans and expat Cubans were lined up with a of bounty of consumer products. A sampling of these goods included flat screen TVs, a compact clothes washer and car tires. I didn't even begin to guess what was in the Marshall's bags or the coolers.

Once on board, I had one of those Washington slept here ...
... or Hemingway drank here moments.

This plane was Shepard One during John Paul II July 2002 tour of
Canada, Guatemala and Mexico.

A 20:30 departure and an 2:05 arrival at Jose Marti airport is not my favourite way of passage.

This is especially painful when you must wait for someone held up in Aduana (Customs).
Seems like Aduana does not like to see WIFI routers in your luggage.
Mind you, I saw this as payback for the times I have held up the bus while Aduana cleared 50 kg of veterinary supplies.

I finally greeted my "cama" at 4:30 am.
This haul was 15 hours.

Tomorrow it's off to the Consultorio Veterinaro Centro Habana

From Burnaby to Havana with Love

2011-04-18T16:35:00.005-04:00

I hope you enjoy following the wonderful contribution being made by Anne - Marie and Charlotte.
The article below is an follow up to the Burnaby Now of November 17, 2010.
Journey to Cuba to help animals was "eye-opening"

Two Burnaby residents raised $900 for veterinary supplies

By Janaya Fuller-Evans, Burnaby Now March 19, 2011

Burnaby Now

A trip to Cuba made two Burnaby residents more aware of how differently animals are treated in other parts of the world.

Up until the past twenty years or so, there were only veterinarians available for agricultural animals in Cuba, according to Charlotte Sedens, who recently returned after visiting the country.

"People in North America consider their pets to be a part of their family, however, that is not the case for everyone in Cuba right now," Sedens explained in an email. "Dr. Gispert (who works with Clinica Veterinaria Laika in Havana) told us that up until 1989 vets were not even trained in school to practice on small animals such as cats and dogs as they were thought of as a commodity for the rich."

Sedens and Anne-Marie Nagata visited Old Havana to donate supplies to the clinic on Dec. 4.

The pair raised $900 through clients and staff of the Burnaby Veterinary Hospital, and family and friends, to buy supplies for the clinic before leaving for their vacation.

Representatives from Pfizer Canada, Vetoquinol Canada Inc., and Novartis Pharmaceuticals Inc. also helped them purchase and gather the supplies, according to Sedens.

Sedens came across a website based in Prince Edward County, Ont. - the Spanky Project - prior to the trip and decided to raise funds to buy supplies to help veterinarians spay, neuter and provide medical attention to stray dogs in Cuba.

The Spanky Project, run by Terry Shewchuk, raises supply donations to help dogs, cats and horses in Cuba.

Dr. Fernando Gispert, of Clinica Veterinaria Laika, is in charge of the project in Havana.

After arriving in Cuba, Sedens and Nagata booked a tour of Havana, two hours from their resort in Veradero.

Once in Havana, the pair separated from the tour and met with their contact, Susana Hurlich, who served as their translator, according to Sedens.

They were taken to the clinic, a small three-room building in Old Havana, where they spent about two hours. The facilities were clean and well maintained, though small, Sedens said.

"Most of the time was spent informing us on the sterilization initiative and the Spanky Project," Sedens said. "We also learned that the clinic also initiates several other programs."

Through the sterilization initiative, dogs are nursed to health over a 30-day period before being spayed or neutered, and after recovering are put up for adoption.

According to Sedens, every three months a group of Canadian veterinarians goes down to Cuba and performs the sterilizations.

Since the project began four years ago, 273 animals have been sterilized, she said, adding that none were released back on the streets.

The clinic estimates that the amount of stray dogs in Old Havana has decreased by at least 50 per cent in the last four years, Sedens.

Nagata, who had visited Havana in 2003, said the number of street dogs had decreased dramatically since she had last been there.

Sedens, who graduated from Simon Fraser University in April, is a volunteer at the Vancouver Aquarium and for the Wildlife Rescue Association of B.C.

Nagata works at the Burnaby Veterinary Hospital and recently graduated from nursing school.

She chose Cuba as a travel destination because she had been there nine or 10 years ago, and really enjoyed it.

"Animals area huge part of both of our lives," she said. She and Sedens became friends in high school.

The pair is arranging to deliver the supplies they could not take with them to the Spanky Project, for someone else to take to Cuba.

Veterinarian's Day

2011-03-24T18:08:00.009-04:00

¡Muchas Felicidades a todos los veterinarios en Cuba !

Today, March 24th, is Veterinarian’s Day in Cuba.

It was on this day in 1961 that Fidel Castro and Captain Antonio Núñez Jiménez, signed Resolution No. 254 for the creation of the Revolutionary Veterinary Services.

It's a Record

2011-02-12T20:04:00.007-05:00

Early morning, February 12th, they began to assemble in Habana Viaja.

photos by S.Hurlich

We began at 8:00 am.
The cats and "their" people were first.
They waited near the door for instructions.
Another Esterilización Masiva Gratuita was underway in Habana Vieja.

Gladys, the Spanky Project's representative in Cuba, kept everyone well informed.

Little did we all know - this was going to become record breaking day.

Later the dogs and their people arrived.
Once in the reception area, patient and caregiver information was recorded.

The patients were weighed and given a sedative.

Once again, an excellent team of Cuban veterinary personnel had assembled.

They donate their time to these campañas that provide free spay/neuters.

The recovery area filled up quite quickly.

It was good to have some extra help.
Christina, from Florida based Peluma, dropped by to lend a hand.

Education is an important component of these very successful campañas.
As caregivers prepared to pick-up their dogs and cats they had an opportunity to take away literature on a variety of pet care topics.

Special thanks go to Sergio Chan (left) and Bayer Animal Health for their ongoing support, and
Ulice Acosta (right) of the Society for Heritage, Community and the Environment (SPCMA)
SPCMA, our Cuban sponsor.
More thanks go to ...
Jessica (left) for escaping a Montreal winter to help out in Havana.

and to ...
Pauline and Gilbert (man in red) of Redtail Vineyard
for helping haul supplies for the Spanky Project's work in Havana.

We were done by 2:00 pm.
My thanks go to you all.

27 Cat 56 Dogs
A record breaking day!

VetTrek - Day 6

2011-02-06T20:01:00.031-05:00

Saturday December 5, 2010

Located on the edge of Habana Vieja, in the Tallapiedra district, is the
Cochera Equina (Equine Garage).

The horses and coachmen of Habana Vieja begin their days here...
receiving assignments and purchasing feed .

This is an area that tourists seldom see.

This was the final "working" day of our visit.
Dr.Travers put into practice theoretical presentations given a few days earlier at the
first Cuba Canada Veterinarian's Day.
Lameness tests, hoof tests, wormings and more.

Photo:Susan Hurlich
And boy was there more.
Dr. Carlos Yrurzun proves he knows his horses ...nose to tail.

Dr.Travers with members of the Agrarian University Faculty.

Ezequiel Palacios Coto the cochero of carriage 52 was very appreciative of our visit.
He invited us to join him and his horse for a complementary tour of Habana Vieja.

But first a visit with John Lennon

and a check up for Susana's cats.

The check ups included physicals, vaccinations, nail trimming, ear cleaning and the application of an anti-parasitic.
Susana and Gladys are both great cat lovers.
I have to be sure their kitties are healthy before I can ask them to help others.

We arrived at the Capitolio at the appointed time for our tour.
Again with Ivomec at the ready we manage to fill an some idle moments deworming coach horses.

Should you find yourself in front of the Capitolio thinking of taking a coach tour
look for Ezequiel and CP52.
He cares for and loves his horses. They are in very good condition.
Say Hola from Terry and the Spanky Project.

I am please to confirm there will be a second annual
Cuba Canada Veterinary Day.
The Consejo Cientifico Veternary de Cuba has set the date for
December 1, 2011.
This will be the highlight of a week full of collaborations.

Click on the envelope to send a message - you would be interested in participating..

VetTrek - Day 5

2011-02-06T19:34:00.001-05:00

Friday December 4, 2010

It's
Esterilización Masiva Gratuita
Day
in La Habana Vieja

Photo:Susana
They came early.
Some walked. Others came via Bici Taxi.
Photo:Susana
All were registered, weighed ...
... and prepped.
Clinic Laika is not large.

But the space was maximized.
Five doctors could be working at one time.

As was her custom on this trip, Dr.Travers picked her table and got down to work.

Havana Television was on site documenting the day.

The final surgery of the day was performed by Dr.Belovich.
Note he is doing a "Flank Spay"
under the direction of a top Cuban surgeon.

Despite the seriousness of the work, these campaigns are a fun event
for those donating their time.
Dr.Alexi y Dr.Linda catch up since their last meeting.

Thanks go to Sergio Chan, the Bayer rep in Cuba.
Sergio delivered donated supplies from Bayer and ..
some of the best burgers I have ever had in Cuba

14 Dog 4 Cats
Yes, it was a modest morning number wise.
This day will lead to ever increasing numbers.

A sizable contribution to our donated supplies came from
Codman, a member of the Johnson & Johnson family of companies.

Photo:Michael Belovich
It was good to see patients had a ride home.

We, on the other hand, "hoofed" it.

After a short break at our hotel we were off to explore Old Havana.

Meet Niña or Canela ...
... depending on who or where you are.
She is a street dog that gets love and care from some of the locals in Habana Vieja. We had seen Canela earlier in the trip. She was cruising Plaza Vieja and her deformed leg caught our eye from across the square.
The gentleman seated in the photo told us someone had apparently kicked her a couple of years ago and broke her leg.

Our trio of Vets gave her a close look and she is no worse for wear.
She keeps the paw off the ground when walking on her three good legs.
So there is no abrasive damage.
The consensus was removal would likely allow her to get around better.
It would be great to find her a home.

Canela and her "posse" were parked across from our detination ...
Taller de Serigrafía René Portocarrero
Here I met Cuban artist Yainiel Martinez.
Located at Calle Cuba #513 it is a screen print work shop where young Cuban artists can produce their works.

Prints are priced from 30CUC.
I did come home with a series of three.

VetTrek - Day 4

2011-02-04T10:51:00.003-05:00

Thursday December 2, 2010

¡Hace frío!

¡It's cold!

This Havana morning could very well have been around 10C.

After a morning walk through Old Havana we arrived at the Society for Heritage, Community and the Environment (SPCMA) Sociedad Patrimonio, Comunidad y Medio Ambiente.

SPCMA is a Cuban NGO that concerns itself with “the preservation, rehabilitation, management, development and promotion of the historical, architectural and cultural heritage of the City of Havana, and in the community and environmental issues that affect the City.”

Photo:Michael Belovich
The SPCMA is located in the heart of Habana Vieja.
Space is available for meetings and art installations that promote the NGO's objectives.

Dr. Fernando Gispert opened with a presentation of the work being done by Comisión Nacional de Bienestar Animal lead by Dra. María Gloria Vidal Rivalta

Dra.Vidal also hosts a television show focusing on animal welfare.

The next presentation was the one I was looking forward to.
Comisión de Esterilización

A collective of volunteers working together with the Veterinary Clinic in Old Havana to
carry out free sterilizations each quarter.
The objective is to lessening the number of strays in the streets and therefore reducing disease among animals and humans alike.

This is done with the support of the “Popular Council” and their access to media to promote the work.
The neigbourhood CDRs (Committee for the Defense of the Revolution) identify strays for participation.

From the intake of a stray from the street
- through nursing back to health
- sterilization
- post operative care
the process takes over 90 days.

In the two years this program has been running, 208 animal have gone through the process. They are enjoying a 100% placement rate into new homes for these former strays. This program has reduced the number of strays wandering the streets and increased the health of many more.

It was great to see members of the Comisión de Esterilización in attendance
with their latest placements.
Not long ago they were strays on the streets of La Habana Vieja.

The Spanky Project delivered anesthetic and supplies for 100 spay /neuters in support of this program in Old Havana. I look forward to seeing this project spread to surrounding barrios.

Professor Natan Vera Rodríguez
of the Agrarian University of Havana gave a presentation on the
lateral flank approach for ovariohysterectomy.
The majority of Cuban veterinarians use this small incision procedure over the North American preferred mid-line spay.
This theoretical presentation was a step towards a practical application by our Canadian veterinarians the following day.
Natan and Dr. Carlos Yrurzun presented a case study involving "external fixation" on the broken jaw of a horse.

Dr.Belovich was called upon for a consultation.
At this moment, with a light being shone up his butt this guy
may have wished he was back in the street.
The tentative diagnosis for the dog was anal gland adenoma.The Spanky Project's Cuban front line of Susana Hurlich and Gladys Morales posed with
Agrarian University Profesores Pavel Herrera Vera and Natan.

After our morning event it was time to collect the supplies we had brought from Canada.
We offered to assist Dr.Gispert and Dra. Guadalupe Ramos-Directora Municipal de Veterinaria de la Habana Viejain in transporting them to the Laika Clinic for a mass sterilization event on Friday.

But first.... time for lunch

photo:Michael Belovich
Some will tell you that "the food in Cuba is horrible".
Well, not true.
Taberna de la Muralla on Plaza Viaja is a micro-brewery that serves up tasty well priced offerings from the grill.
Once we completed lunch we moved across the square to ...
Café El Escorial
Some of the best coffee based infusions in the city can be found here on Plaza Vieja.

Photo:Michael Belovich
Considering the amount of supplies, it was decided that carrying the bags across
Old Havana was not an option.
So,we flagged down a couple of Bici Taxis and load up Gispert and Guadelope.

Photo:Michael Belovich
We would meet up with them the next day, along with other members of the
Comisión de Esterilización.

We capped off our day with friends and dinner in Barrio Chino.
Yes, Havana has a Chinatown.

VetTrek - Day 3

2011-01-29T18:34:00.003-05:00

Wednesday December 1, 2010

This was another busy day.

We arrived for a historic event in a 1946 Ford and were warmly greeted by
Dr. Carlos Yrurzun Estrada
of the Universidad Agraria de la Habana

Assembled on this morning, at the Consejo Cientifico Veterinario de Cuba, were Cuban and Canadian Veterinarians. We were here to partake in the first Cuba - Canada Veterinarians Day.
This is the first time Canadian Veterinarians have been invite to speak before this century old institution.

My deepest appreciation goes to the Canadian Government for recognizing this event.
I was my pleasure to deliver greetings from the
Canadian Minister of Agriculture, Gerry Ritz.

As Minister of Agriculture and Agri-Food for Canada, I am pleased to learn of the first Cuba–Canada Veterinary Day. Our two countries have a strong and long-standing tradition of co-operation and trade in animals and animal products. I was particularly interested to learn that animal welfare is a key theme. As a former producer and breeder myself, I share a concern for the welfare of animals, and I believe that animals should be protected from unnecessary suffering. Delegates may be interested to learn that Canada has developed several unique approaches to addressing animal welfare. The combination of regulatory measures and collaborative non-regulatory measures can be beneficial to advancing animal welfare. I invite all delegates to review the work of Canada’s National Farmed Animal Care Council and of the Canadian Food Inspection Agency, the federal regulatory authority for animal health and welfare.

Also, my local Federal representative sent his greetings.

Greetings Everyone! Please accept my most sincere congratulations as you celebrate the first Cuba - Canada Veterinarians Day. On this important occasion it is only fitting to take time to recognize the efforts of all the members and volunteers who have made this day possible. The had work and dedication that goes into bringing projects like these to fruition are a tremendous accomplishment, one in which you should be very proud. The benefits of sharing valuable resources and information focusing on a common goal will not only benefit animal welfare, pet protection and the protection of the environment but our Countries as a whole. Congratulations on your efforts so far, and continued success in the days to come. Sincerely, Daryl Kramp, M.P. Prince Edward - Hastings

We had a full to overflow crowd for this First Cuba-Canada Veterinarians Day.

Dr. Belovich began with a presentation on "Pain Protocols for Cats".
Gladys Morales, the Spanky Project's representative in Cuba, provided the Spanish translations.

Dr. Belovich and Dr.Pallet demonstrated handling techniques for cats and dogs.
Much to the dismay of the cat.
Dr.Travers spoke on the topic of choke.

Her able assistant, Dr.Yrurzun, proved ... you can have fun with a stomach tube.

Part two of the equine presentation covered lameness in horses.
Radiographs were used to present interesting cases.

Dr. Carlos Yrurzun seemed to be a little perplexed by the uniqueness of this "hoof tester".Photo - S.Hulich
Dr.Belovich explained that Cubans are not the only ones that can make something out of nothing.

hoof tester:shaped like a pair of large pincers. One of the blades is placed on apparently normal hoof and the other on the part to be tested. If there is a flinch response when the handles are squeezed this is taken as an indication of pain at one of the pressure sites.

The first Cuba-Canada Veterinarians Days was a pleasure for Cubans and Canadians alike.
The ladies of the Spanky Project were presented with gladiolas and all in attendance received certificates of participation.
Photo - S.Hulich

Dra. Betty Amaro poses with Dr.Gispert and myself.
Dra.Amaro is President of the Consejo Cientifico Veterinario de Cuba.
She is also the wife of the previous President, my dear departed friend,
Dr. Fermin M. Palazuelos Tuset.

At the end of the scheduled program the interchange continued.

Our next stop of the day was Clínica Veterinaria ¨Jose Luis Callejas¨on Calle Carlos III
Located on this site from 1943 –1976 was the Faculty of Veterinary Medicine.
In 1976, the school moved to San Jose de las Lajas.
Today this is the location of Havana’s largest Veterinary Clinic...
.

... which houses a laboratory that receives specimens from clinics around Havana.
¨Jose Luis Callejas¨ is also the only destination for 24 hour clinical care in Havana

Third stop of the day !!
La Quinta de los Molinos is a national monument located in the City of Havana , Cuba . Important for having been the residence of the Captains General during the colonial period, the residence of the hero Maximo Gomez and host to the Havana Botanical Garden and Museum Maximo Gomez .
After a presentation of the rejuvenation project we toured the grounds.

Work in progress ....... Work completed

Like any good botanical garden this location has become a wedding photo backdrop.

Part of the rejuvenation is a avian breeding program.
Juan Finca explains some of the finer points of the program.
Nothing could be finer than the "footwear" on this pretty bird.

Along these paths we came across some dogs that have made Quinta de los Molinos their home.
Gispert told us there are plans to spay/neuter them.
Always at the ready, we did an impromptu deparasitization.
As we came to the end of our tour each of us were handed a bird.
We were a little befuddled by this.
Once we each had a bird in hand and after a few kind words we were told to release the birds in honour of the Spanky Project's visit.

It is wonderful to see the rejuvenation of this urban oasis of green.
The Spanky Project is honoured to be included in this project.
We said goodbye to our new friends with the promise to return and to
collaborate on a program or two.

These will likely include technical and material assistance with the bird breeding program as well as support for the dog population.

Meet Pica ....
We met this little bundle of energy the night before.
She followed us from La Bodeguita de Medio up Calle Obispo to Parque Central before saying goodnight.
On this evening Pica was waiting for us as we exited dinner at Hanoi.
I told Dr.Belovich that if Pica found us on the next night he would have to take her home.

VetTrek - Day 2

2010-12-22T15:09:00.042-05:00

Day two November 30- at 8:00am we were at the ready in the lobby for our transport to San Miguel del Pardón.
Located on Havana's south eastern outskirts it is one of the 15 municipalities into which the city is divided.

View Larger Map
Numbers from 2004 show the municipality of San Miguel del Padrón had a population of 159,273.

Our day began with a small spay/neuter campaña at the Consultorio Veterinario of
Dra.Danis. The campaña location also happens to be her home which she shares
with her husband, Tony.
The government has sanctioned a small consultorio clinic in her home to supplement the larger municipal clinic. A sign is posted on the entrance ... Don't bother "NO MOLESTE" .. outside of the posted hours. In reality, urgent cases are not turned away.

Upon our arrival, our first patients were waiting for us.
Danis (green scrubs on the left) and Dr.Edgar (red cap) met with the caregivers.
Edgar is a veterinarian from Havana who joined us for the day.
Thanks to Susana, I have come to know Edgar.
He is a talented surgeon and is always very keen to upgrade his knowledge and skills.

Above is Dr.Travers with the municipal veterinary director.

Here, Edgar is doing a flank spay while the dog's caregiver looks on.
It is quite common to have caregiver involvement during these campaigns.

Dr.Linda Pallet has also been donating supplies in Cuba--along with her time-- since 2003.
In the past couple years, Linda has joined forces with the Spanky Project.
This is the first time we have visited Cuba together.

In addition to the spay/neuters performed during this campaña, Linda provided the extra services of checking dental health and giving "manicures"

Throughout Cuba, all veterinary facilities have educational materials posted.
Danis' "consultorio" is no exception.
As they say, an ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure.

The final tally was ...
Dogs 11 Cats 3
Not bad for a mornings work.

These little pups were brought by for a visit.
I hope we see them at a future campaña.

photo:Susana Hurlich

Next we were off to Finca Vigia/Museo Hemingway.

These are four of the 13 resident dogs.

It was good to be back at Hemingway's home.
We were warmly greeted by Ada Rosa Alfonso -Director Museo Hemingway.
My first visit was back in June, 2010. It was then that the seeds were planted for an ongoing project.
June 2010 visit to Finca Vigia

After a wonderful lunch we got down to a little work.
The Spanky Project is continuing it's commitment to Las Mascotas de Finca Vigia.
On this visit, with Danis the project veterinarian, we delivered supplies for ongoing care.

All of the dogs were vaccinated and orally deparasitized with Ivomec.

We had the honour of being given a guided tour of Finca Vigia by Ada Rosa herself.

It was great to have such a glimpse into Hemingway's days spent on the edge of Havana.

Hasta la próxima vez Negrito
(Until next time, Negrito)

After a day full of emotional highs it was back to reality.
Due to economics, the veterinary infrastructure in Cuba is under great stress.
In San Miguel del Padron the only clinic for the municipality is crumbling.

As you can see in this photo, water infiltration is causing problems.
This area of the clinic had no lighting.
Dr.Travers provided illumination via her cell phone.

In true Cuban style ....
Despite the day to day struggles caring for animals a smile is always there.

After our fun-filled afternoon at Finca Vigia, Dr.Travers suggested we continue the Hemingway theme into the evening. She heard that Ernest frequented a spot called the Floridita-- this bar also lays claim to being the originator of the daiquiri.
Our next stop was the Hotel Ambos Mundos where we enjoyed the roof top view over Habana Vieja. A few floors down we were able to then drop by Ernest's room on the fifth floor. Note Dr.Belovich count cat toes in the photo on the right.
Finally, we strolled past La Bodeguita del Medio (another Hemingway drinking hole) before calling it a night.

VetTrek - Day 1

2010-12-21T16:53:00.003-05:00

Our first day was one of "greetings & orientation"

After a roof top breakfast at our hotel we were off to our first official event.

We delivered over $7,000 worth of supplies to our sponsoring Cuban counterpart -
Society for Heritage, Community and the Environment (SPCMA)
Sociedad Patrimonio, Comunidad y Medio Ambiente
Pictured from let to right ...
Ana Lourdes Sotto - Directora Ejecutiva
Ulice Acosta Llanes -Especialista Principal en Cooperación Internacional
Fernando Gispert, DMV - Veterinarian Laika Clinic
Susana Hurlich the Spanky Project's Havana Coordinator and translator

SPCMA is a Cuban not for profit organization that concerns itself with “the preservation, rehabilitation, management, development and promotion of the historical, architectural and cultural heritage of the City of Havana, and in the community and environmental issues that affect the City.”

After introductions and welcoming words it was down to the paperwork.
All the supplies we brought to Cuba were documented for importation and now were signed over to SPCMA for use during our visit and into the future.

After our morning event we walked to the nearby
Jarden del Oriente.
(Amargura No. 12, e/ Mercaderes y Oficio)
This shaded courtyard eatery is few steps from Plaza de San Francisco de Asis.

It has been a favourite of mine for simple, well-priced meals.

As you can see, this eatery is frequented by a number of cats.
The Spanky Project has put forth the prospect of implementing the Cat Café
concept at Jardin del Oriente.

After lunch we strolled to Clinica Veterinaria Laika.
It is located near the train station on the western edge of La Habana Vieja

Out front was a gentleman with his goat that was suffering from a skin condition.

Clinica Laika is a full service veterinary location.

Dr.Gispert explained the work that is being done in the clinic and with the
community outreach programs.
One program is the "Comisión de esterilización".
I will expand on this later but in short, they are reducing the number of strays in
La Habana Vieja.

The clinic is open seven days a week to serve the community.
The two veterinarians, along with the technicians, do great work with limited resources.

This was an event filled week.

Coming soon-
Day 2 - San Miguel de Pedron - sterilization campaña
Finca Vigia / Museo Hemingway

Day 3 - First Annual Cuba Canada Veterinarians Day
Conference at Consejo Cientifico Veterinario de Cuba
Visit to Clinic Veterinaria José Luis Callejas
Visit to Quinta de los Molinos
Day 4 - Presentation of SPCMA programs
Day 5 - La Habana Vieja sterilization campaign
Day 6 - Early morning workshop with Cochero's and their carriage horses

On The Air

2010-12-14T09:07:00.005-05:00

The video is on the net. Check it out while you can.
Dr.Michael Belovich appears on Animal House Calls. The link is to Toronto's CP24.
Click here and then select Dec 7 Part 3
Dr.Belovich speaks of his recent trip to Havana with the
Spanky Project.
I am not sure how long it will be up - so please take a moment and have a look.

We're back.

2010-12-06T15:34:00.019-05:00

On November 29th, the Spanky Project embarked on a one week VetTrek to Havana, Cuba.

We arrived to learn ...

... and to teach.

Most of all, we arrived to help Cubans help their animals.

Dr. Linda Pallett

Dr.Michele Traver

Dr.Michael Belovich

We attended to dogs ...

.... cats ...

... and horses.

We visited and worked in veterinary clinics ...

...as well as in the streets.

Even though we worked hard, we also managed to have some fun.

Please come back as we share our visit.

More Than Tourists.

2010-10-31T12:15:00.010-04:00

It's official ..... let the packing begin.

We now have our Cuban visas in hand.
This piece of paper permits us to do more than tan, dance and drink rum.

But along with the visa comes other responsibilities.
Like documenting supplies for Customs/Aduana preapproval.
When are bringing purchased supplies totaling over $2800.oo and donations in kind of over $3600.00.

A big thank you goes out to Ethicon and Codman, both members of the Johnson & Johnson Family of companies.
Their generous donation of suture material and surgical instruments will be a huge boost to the Spanky Project's work in Havana.

Also a big thank you to those that have made donations here by PayPal or through the Cuba Canada Friendship Association/Mackenzie-Papineau Memorial Fund.

One of the three veterinarians on this trip will be Dr.Michael Belovich,

practice owner /veterinarian of the
Yonge Street Animal Hospital
in Toronto.
If Dr.B's name sounds familiar perhaps it may be because you watch Animals House Calls.
He is a frequent guest on the Animal Planet show hosted by Ann Rohmer.

This is going to be a great trip !!

Wishlist Wednesday

2010-09-29T18:15:00.008-04:00

Before I present this "Wish List Wednesday" ...

The Spanky Project is please to announce a wonderful collaboration.
Sociedad Patrimonio Comunidad y Medio Ambiente (SPCMA), Laika Veterinary Clinic -Habana Vieja and the Spanky Project will work together to provide 100 free spay/neuters in Old Havana.

On November 28th the Spanky Project, headed by Terry Shewchuk, and three Canadian Veterinarians will arrive in Havana for a one week stay.
During this week the Canadian and Cuban veterinarians will work side by side and have practical and theoretical exchanges.

On this trip the main course will be canines and felines with a side of equine evaluation.
The trip will culminate with the spay/neuter of 25 dogs which were previously rescued from the streets of Old Havana.

The rescue of strays is an ongoing program which I will expand upon in another posting.

In addition to our delivery of the supplies for 100 sterilizations we will bring meds and instruments for use in local veterinary clinics.

In February we will again travel to Havana where that week's work will wrap up with a 50 spay / neuter day. If you are in the veterinary field we are welcoming expressions of interest for February.

Should you care to contribute by delivering supplies to Havana I have provide the Wishlist Wednesday list below.

SURGICAL MATERIAL:
Surgical gloves #8
Surgical gloves #7
Surgical gloves #6

Syringes without needles 20ml
Syringes without needles 10ml
Syringes without needles 5 ml
Syringes without needles 1 ml
Needles 20 gauge
Needles 25 gauge

Scalpel blades # 22
Scalpel blades# 12

Suture Catgut Nº 2
Suture Catgut Nº 1
Suture Catgut Nº 0
Suture Catgut Nº 1-0
Suture Catgut Nº 2-0

Gauze (pads various sizes, rolls)
Medical Cottons (Eye pads, Rolls, Swabs, Balls etc)

DESINFECTANTES:
Virkon S (Bayer)
Fenol

ANTISEPTICS:
Alcohol 90º
Alcohol 70º
Chlorhexidine–alcohol scrub
Povidone–iodine

ANTIBIOTICS:
Erythromycin 100mL
Oxytetracycline 100mL
Penicillin 100mL
Gentamicin 100mL

VITAMINS / BIOESTIMULANTES:
Yatrén Caseína (100ml) BAYER
Vigantol A-D-E (100ml) BAYER
Catosal B12 (100ml) BAYER
Calfón BAYER

Mineral oil
Hairball remedy
Collars leashes

Put to good use your outdated dust collecting electronics ...
2GB or higher USB Flash Drives
Digital cameras
Laptops

Fiesta en Toronto !!

2010-08-24T13:17:00.010-04:00

If you live in the GTA or can make it in for the day come and enjoy a touch of Cuba.

Salsa in the City Square

15th Annual Toronto-Cuba Friendship Day

Saturday, August 28, 2010 - 1 pm to 8 pm
Cuba Sí! Experience the Friendship!

FREE Admission

Nathan Phillips Square, Toronto City Hall
100 Queen Street West at Bay
Three Cuban bands:
Yani Borrell y los Clave Kings
Sonido Cubano
Pablo Terry & Sol de Cuba

Beer Garden, Cuban Food Free Salsa lessons Display and Info tables

ALL WELCOME

Organized by Canadian-Cuban Friendship Association Toronto
www.ccfatoronto.ca

If you will be in attendance and I would be happy to collect donations for the work in Havana.
flea & tick prevention
de-wormers
collars leashes
grooming tools
surgical and exam gloves

Look for Skeeter ...
... the white dog with one black ear and you will find me.

If you can't find Skeeter or me (Terry) you can drop your donation at the CCFA-Toronto booth located next to the stage.

Should you care to make a monetary donation and receive a tax receipt ...
Bring your cheque payable to:

Mackenzie-Papineau Memorial Fund

Write on the cheque "Las Mascotas"
Name and address (& tel if possible) of the donor for the tax receipt.

Cheques can also be mailed to:

Mackenzie-Papineau Memorial Fund
Att: S. Skup
56 Riverwood Terrace
Bolton ON L7E 1S4

Save A Life ...

2010-07-14T15:43:00.009-04:00

Havana is begging for help !!!

These little pests are killing dogs.

The occurrences of the tick borne disease ehrlichiosis seem to be at an increased level this year.

Given the prevalence of the disease in ticks - the absence of tick prevention -
and the lack of available diagnostic testing - all result in a deadly problem.

The Cuban drug of choice for treating this disease is oxytetracycline.
Other antibiotics of use are tetracycline or doxycycline.
You can help !!
For those of you in Ontario, Canada TSC Stores are a source for Oxytetracycline.
Here is their store locator.

Other sources in Canada would be Co-Op and other farm supply stores.

In the USA, online sources include Amazon the Cattle Store and the Tractor Supply Company.

Of course, prevention is the best remedy.
Tick collars, sprays, dips and drops are in great need.

If you will be in Havana in the very near future please lend a paw and save a life.

I will provide drop off locations upon request.

email me

Las Mascotas de Finca Vigia

2010-06-22T19:11:00.030-04:00

June 8, 2010
This was a very exciting day.
It came together quite quickly and may be the seed of a proposed larger project.

For a little background check out this earlier blog posting.

We arrived on schedule at 10:00 at Museo Hemingway.
After intros and a photo op it was off to the task at hand.
It's Spay/Neuter Day at Finca Vigia.

Photo:Susana Hurlich
On the left is Tony of Pata-Paws Cuba .
Tony was a great help by providing transport and food for the dogs during recovery.
Check out their website. They assist existing Cuban groups in their work with animals.

Photo:Susana Hurlich
Me , Tony, Dra.Danis, Dr.Alexis
-Alexis, the veterinarian from the vet clinic in Centro Habana who came not only prepared to demonstrate how to use propofol anaesthesia, but also to do the surgery if necessary.
-Danis, the veterinarian from San Miguel del Padron who Museo Hemingway would like to be the permanent vet but who doesn't know how to use propofol
-Tony, the husband of Danis who, while neither a vet nor a veterinary technician, has worked at her side for 15 years and has learned a great deal.

Tony wrangles Pinto for the long walk

The two Vets get acquainted while heading to our assigned surgical area.

Alexis was lead surgeon on the first neuter.
After some prep of the "surgical suite" ...

Photo:Susana Hurlich
....and a double check of supplies ...

... all we needed was some power.
Not only is Tony a "Veterinary Assistant"
he doubles as our electrician running a line for us to power the tattoo outfit.

Omar, one of the workers at Finca Vigia and who is particularly fond of Pinto, carried him down to the operating area while the rest of us followed. He held Pinto in his arms while he received the injected sedative and was with him until he more or less passed out, feeling very sad that Pinto would blame him for what was happening. Susana told Omar that quite the contrary, rather than blaming him, Pinto will know that Omar was with him throughout a frightening and difficult ordeal, giving him love and comfort all the time.
Omar seemed a bit comforted by that thought.

Photo:Susana Hurlich
Omar and Pinto

After some careful calculations for the anesthetic dosage ...

Photo:Susana Hurlich

It was sleep time for Pinto.

Oh did I mention we operated poolside.

Photo:Susana Hurlich
We were quite the attraction.
As tours came and went we were a stop of interest.
Here Susana took the opportunity to speak with the various management groups of Hotel Acuario Marina Hemingway.

She also made sure to hand out some information about the Spanky Project.
They were impressed with the Cat Café concept.

Once the procedure is completed it's time for a little "ink".

The Spanky Project ensures that each dog or cat in it's spay/neuter programs receives an identifying tattoo in the ear.
In the case of strays it ensure that the females are not opened up again in another campaña.
All tattoos are entered into a database and reunification can be accomplished in the case of found pets that have gone missing.
It will be no different for the dogs and cats of Finca Vigia.

Pinto is FV1

Tony takes Pinto to recovery.

Within an hour Pinto was up ... out and about... charming the staff.

Photo:Susana Hurlich
Negrito, a small black male was next.
This time, Danis did the surgery with Alexis and Tony assisting.

Photo:Susana Hurlich
Before surgery these nasty ticks were removed.
A tick borne disease known as Ehrlichiosis is a big problem in Cuba.
The proposed program "Las Mascotas de Finca Vigia" will provide tick control
and treatment if necessary.

Ada Rosa Alfonso, the director of Museo Hemingway,
checks on our progress and make sure we are all hydrated.

Photo:Susana Hurlich
Cucara the only female operated on this today.
Upon consultation it was decided that all the males be neutered and Cucara, having just come out of heat, be spayed.
This immediately curtails any chance of the dog population increasing uncontrolled.

While Susana and I were off meeting with Ada Rosa the Director of Museo Hemingway there was a spontaneous decision to do Feo, the third adult male. Feo means ugly but he's not an ugly dog. One of the workers at Finca Vigia, Ricardo, a guard, loves Feo and plans to eventually take him home with him as his own dog.

Photo:Susana Hurlich
Result: three males and one female successfully sterilized and with tattoos in their ears, and one other, already-sterilized female, with a tattoo in her ear.

Near our poolside surgery, Hemingway's fishing boat the Pilar is proudly displayed.
Beside that, the resting places for four of Hemingway's favourite dogs.
A testament to his love and caring for those that resided with him at Finca Vigia.

The goal of the proposed project Las Mascotas de Finca Vigia is to create and maintain a stable
population of cats and dogs that Hemingway would be proud to call his own.

"5ta Desparasitación masiva de mascotas"

2010-06-19T21:05:00.038-04:00

Well, it's Monday morning (June 7) and an eventful day is ahead.
This day is the "5ta Desparasitación masiva de mascotas"
A number of us were requested to arrive at 8:15 for a meet and greet.
So I hit the streets at 7:45 for the 15 minute walk.

As per normal, this morning was hot and steamy.

Calle Obispo was quiet enroute to Convento Belen.

My introduction to Convento Belen was in 2003. We toured what, at the time, was a re-construction site for a wonderful social concept.
This massive structure dating back to 1712 now provides ...

Housing for the elderly

Health clinic and pharmacy

Shelter from natural catastrophes

Services for disabled youth

Choirs and bands

Mass and religious ceremonies

Eye care and glasses

Computer and internet training

Physical therapy and exercise

Occupational training for all ages

Art, music and cultural activities

Meals for those in need

Community outreach

Support for single mothers

Crafts, art and music workshops

Upon my arrival I came upon the morning exercise in progress.

Set up and ready to go to work were the Vets and Techs.
Four stations under two tent provided the treatment area.

The balloons were being filled using a bicycle pump.

As early as I arrived, so did the dogs and their escorts.

Each person was given a number to facilitate orderly treatment.

Some showed up with more than one.

No one got past Susana and into the treatment until a space opened up.

These people truly love their dogs.

Ana Lourdes - Directora Ejecutiva of Patrimonio Comunidad y
Medio Ambiente Sociedad Civil (SPCMA)
opened the event with introductions and recognition of contributors and participants.

As you can imagine, it takes a group effort to put on an event like this. Showing us she has all her fingers is Soledad Pagliuca of the St.Augustine - Baracoa friendship Association. In addition to the wonderful support they give to the Baracoa area, Soledad and her group delivered 1000 needles and syringes for this event.

The St.Augustine group, as part of their varied good works, publishes educational material including Spanish language colouring books on Cuban endangered species.

Mags was happy when I presented her with a copy of 'El Manati" upon my return home.
If you know of a publisher / print house that could help their cause contact Soledad

Dr. Fernanado Gispert, of Clinica Veterinaria “LAIKA”, is the Veterinary Director for this event.
Before the first dog was seen he briefed the crowd on the treatment, which dogs would be excluded, the potential side effects and where to seek follow-up treatment if needed.

Each arriving dogs and escort were registered and interviewed by a Veterinary Technician.

Information was recorded ...

...then it was over to see the Vet were measurements are taken to calculate the appropriate dosage.

Where you have dogs you will have .... well... you know.

Members of Covento Belen diligently kept the streets clean to the point I was only able to use my Poop 'n Scoop bags once.

Seeing that we were going to have a large group waiting we took the opportunity to distribute educational materials. These included the "Benefits of Spay & Neuter".

On display was artwork by school children with the theme being environment and animal welfare.

This art piece points out the need to vaccinate your dog.
+++
They came in all ....

....shapes

... and sizes.

Some, too young to treat.

It was all over, as scheduled, at the noon hour.

The final total showed 428 dogs registered as treated. Some showed up after the tents were taken down - no one was turned away.

By time the big bottle of Ivomec was put away.....

...I would guesstimate a number of 440 for the day.

On this day I made some new friends that I look forward to working with in the future.
Standing beside my dear friend and adviser Gladys Morales is Sergio Chan Valdes.
Sergio is the Bayer - Animal Health Rep in Cuba.
Bayer has sponsored previous mass parasitization events.

Juan Gálvez Anllo - Director del Grupo de Fauna del Centro Histórico.
If you see an animal in a hotel or tourist establishment in La Habana Vieja they are Juan's responsibility.
I look forward to taking him up on his tour offer my next trip.

Congratulations go to Anna Lourdes, Ulice Acosta and their SPCMA crew.
Dr. Eusebio Leal Spengler; Director of the Office of the Historian of the City of Havana.
Dr.Fernando Gispert, Clinica Veterinaria"Laika", and all participating Vet & Techs
Everyone at Convento Belen and the surrounding community.
The dogs and those that care for them.

+++
Special thanks go to Susan C. for the generous donation of 1000ml of Merial's Ivomec which made this event possible.

Clinic Visit

2010-06-12T21:36:00.017-04:00

This was drop off day.

It may be Saturday but there is work to be done.
Every trip I haul as many supplies as I can carry. Flying Cubana Airline, with it’s generous weight allowance, out of Toronto is my ideal.

As I pointed out in previous blog posts. All donations are received and documented by my Cuban counterparts upon arrival. When they are distributed they are listed and signed for by representative of the clinic or group receiving them.

My friend Justo not only translates for me but hauls the occasional box when I need to take a photo.

This location, known as José Luis Callejas to the locals, provides the
only 24 hour clinical service
in the city.

Amparo and I are greeted by the Director and Clinic Manager.

Education is a growing part of Cuban Veterinary care. Everywhere in the clinic there are posters
with various messages.

Supplies and equipment at the Veterinary clinics in Cuba are limited.

This is the main Havana Clinic and a wide variety of service are provide ....

....including Havana's lone X-ray and ultrasound equipment for veterinary care.

As with all delivered donations the supplies are signed for upon receipt.

Major Steps in Old Havana

2010-06-07T21:12:00.006-04:00

As was mentioned in Susana’s wonderful write up we had a meeting at the offices of
Sociedad Patrimonio Comunidad y Medio Ambiente (SPCMA).

SPCMA is a Cuban not for profit organization that concerns itself with “the preservation, rehabilitation, management ,development and promotion of the historical, architectural and cultural heritage of the City of Havana, and in the community and environmental issues that affect the City.”

The Spanky Project found itself here as a result of two efforts.
In planning my dates for this trip pencil pondering turn to penned permanence when I was asked by Amapro Lopez to attend the 5th Mass Deparasitation of Pets. Amparo is the coordinator of Group Dulce Maria Loynaz. Spanky Project supporter Susan Crawford has generously been making donations including a large supply of Ivomec. A 1000 ml donation as a matter of fact. This donation prompted SPMCA to hold a mass event on June 7th.

The second opportunity taken was to discuss setting up a Cat Café in Havana. This is a project Susana and I have been promoting for some time. If you are not aware of the concept you will hear much more soon.

We were warmly greeted by Ana Lourdes Soto Pérez -Directora Ejecutiva and Ulice Acosta Llanes - Especialista Cooperación Internacional at their offices in La Habana Vieja.

After introductions it was down to work. The level of professionalism exhibited by the whole SPMCA team is tremendous. Concerns I had expressed pre-trip, about the June 7th event were not only immediately addressed by email but addressed again in this meeting. This is a group one can collaborate with. Once we dispensed with present projects we turned to future efforts.

I presented Ana and Ulice with a Cat Café brochure which Susana and I had put together.
They immediately embraced the concept and designated a spot for the first Cat Café in Cuba. Stay tuned for more details.

Another matter that was brought up was our project development at Museo Hemingway.
Susana’s excellent senses led us to ask for their support of the project and organizational backing. Ana truly appreciated the project concept but regrettably could not give full backing. She did offer support in making the Veterinary Clinic in Vieja available to assist.
Most importantly she offered SPMCA office as a conduit through which we can be granted permission for entering Cuba with donated medical supplies.

This has been one great meeting...... BUT WAIT !!

The Spanky Project offered to collaborate on a 100 dog / cat mass sterilization event in La Habana Vieja. The offer was accepted immediately accepted in principal and a letter of cooperation and understanding will be drawn up shortly.
This effort will also include some international veterinary cooperation

And this was only day two.........

Museo Hemingway, La Habana

2010-06-06T09:33:00.006-04:00

After settling into my room and a nights sleep it was straight to work on my first full day in Havana
.
Susana Hurlich, who has been living in Cuba for 20 years and has become a big part of the Spanky Project’s work in Cuba has put together a great report on the big development to come out of this trip.

With her permission I offer some excerpts to you ....

June 3, 2010.

Hola -

This morning , for a good two hours, we had our first meeting at Museo Hemingway to discuss what to do about Hemingway's legacy of cats and dogs. No one asked me to prepare notes and perhaps I won't remember everything, as most of the time I was translating, but it seems a good idea to me to begin to document what is going to turn into a very interesting and far-reaching project.

First, the participants:

For Museo Hemingway: Ada Rosa Alfonso (director), Rosalba Diaz (in charge of restoration and conservation), Cari and Omar (two of the museo's approx 50 staff members - more on them below.

For the Spanky Project: Terry Shewchuk, founder and head (this project has been working in Cuba since 2003)

For PATAS PAWS Cuba: Tony Toffoli, founder and head (being created now but already starting to provide some assistance to dog and cat wellbeing in Cuba)

Collaborator with the Spanky Project and PAWS and well-known cat lover: Susana (that's me!)

Collaborator with the Spanky Project and well-known within Cuba's cat and dog community and much, much more: Gladys Morales

Finca Vigia's animal population: 13 dogs and one pregnant cat

After introducing those who hadn't previously met, we got right into the topic. The background of the situation is as follows: There are presently 13 resident dogs at Finca Vigia, most of whom are a fairly steady population. They are all very friendly tale-wagging beings who clearly love people. They are also canines and, as such, have typical canine behaviour: they live in a pack that consists of four males and nine females, including some who are still quite young and who haven't yet entered their first heat. The alpha male is Pinto, who is an attractive black and white dog bearing the scars of his winning fights with great dignity. In times past, the dogs and cats lived together quite well and Finca Vigia has photos that show some of them sleeping together happily and with mutual confidence. Until Pinto got it into his head that he could hunt and kill cats. And, since he's the leader, and the rest of the lot behaves like a typical canine pack, they all get into it. The result is that the Finca's cat populatoin has dramatically diminished to its present population of one cat.

And what a sweetheart! Ñeñe (pronounced nye-nye) she's called, and she's Mariposita-sized, white with a black tale and black on her ears.

Back to the one kitty sweetheart that still lives at Finca Vigia - She's pregnant, due to have her babies in the next week or so. Her second litter. And everyone is worried about her wellbeing. She's been "adopted" by Cari, one of the workers at the Finca, who adores cats. Ñeñe stays with her non-stop at her work site. She gave birth to her first litter on Cari's lap.......

As for where her babies will be born, there is a small closed-in cement structure on the property with a grilled iron entrance on the front. About one and a half metres square. Shaded. It's where the Finca's newborn puppies are kept but now it's going to be the birth and kitten house. (The English speakers laughed when I translated the Spanish word for this as "cat house", and then I had to explain to the Cubans why this was so funny...) Cari is going to be cleaning it out today and Omar - ahh, now you see why they're so important - is going to put a wire mesh on the front so that the Finca's smaller dogs can't get inside, meanwhile leaving one small hole where Ñeñe herself can go in and out. Cari is also going to bring an old piece of clothing or towel from home, all covered with her odour, and several times a day go with this and Ñeñe into the little structure so that she'll feel comfortable - safe odours all round - and know that this will be her new home.

That's the plan for the one cat, anyway, for the moment.

Now, as for specific action plans that came out of this first meeting: before the cat population will be able to grow, the dog pack has to be stabilized and somewhat pacified. As I mentioned, there are four males and nine females, and only two of the females have been spayed. As spaying and neutering usually - not 100% but generally, in most cases - calms animals down, this is the first thing that needs to be done. And we're going to start with Pinto. He's quite a nice dog. To date, a good number of the male staff at the Finca have been against having him fixed. For sure, they like the fact that he's guapo and strong and a leader. But when Ada Rosa and Rosalba began to say to these particular colleagues: "This is Finca Vigia, a historic site, and our plan is to have a viable cat and dog population to reflect Hemingway's life. If you don't want Pinto fixed, take him home with you and keep him as your very own dog." - and there were no takers. Well, Pinto's fate is fixed.

But when we - the Spanky Project and others - realized that there weren't any firm dates for dealing with Pinto, we suggested that we do the operation a day or so before Terry returns to Canada (on Wed). Although there's a good vet in the immediate community, says Rosalba, the vet with whom they like to work lives several km away in San Miguel del Padron. So we suggested they call her, right there and then - and Ada Rosa, being an amazing doer and not just a talker - immediately asked that their cell phone be brought and they called her on the spot. (We were all sitting around the little tables, outside, under the trees, where we had the snacks when you were there, Brian.) It was a kind of conference call, with lots of back and forth and translations. The Spanky Project said they would provide all the supplies for the surgery. PAWS is helping to provide post-operative foods for Pinto (powdered milk, honey, eggs). But when we spoke with the vet, she said that she only has enough ketamine, a good general veterinary anaesthetic, to operate on one animal, and this was being saved for one of the females at the Finca who's presently in heat, but as soon as she's out of heat, kablomb! she gets spayed. Terry said that it's not a problem that Danis doesn't have much ketamine, as he had brought in lots of propofol, another kind of anaesthetic used for veterinary work. And he said he could get lots more propofol for vet work in Cuba, as it's much easier to obtain in Canada, and export, than ketamine as ketamine is also a hallucinatory drug that's been used by people, so Canada has much tighter controls on its acquisition and export. Then Danis explained that she had never worked with propofol. That's no problem, either, said Terry, as we can arrange a propofol-experienced Cuban vet to come with us who would do the surgical procedure, and in the process, teach Danis how to work with propofol.

So, a plan quickly emerged: On Tuesday, June 8th, at 10am, our team - Spanky (all the surgical supplies plus the propofol-experienced vet), PAWS (post-operative food supplies), Susana (contributing some eggs to the post-operative recuperative diet) and Gladys will appear at Finca Vigia. Danis will also be there. And Pinto with a capital P will become pinto with a small p. Rosalba will do post-operative care...

...Now, this brings up another interesting piece of the puzzle: Rosalba. A highly trained and qualified specialist in conservation and restoration. And a heart that embraces all living things. She has been one of the main caregivers of the dogs at Finca Vigia, often buying food and medications out of her own pocket to keep them in good health. Doing it willingly and would never complain, but obviously it's hard to sustain in the long run. (It was Ada Rosa who talked about this, not Rosalba...) And some of the other workers help as well, as when we were introduced to several, it appears that each staff member has his or her favourite among the lot and gives them tidbits from their own meals.

What we suggested is that we do a campaign at the Finca, with a mass sterilization of all the males and the older females ....
And we suggested that this involve not only Danis, but some of the advanced vet students from the vet school (coincidentally, it turns out that Danis's daughter is a vet student!) who would then be involved in a community-wide sterilization campaign that would radiate out from Finca Vigia. Ada Rosa and Rosalba loved the idea - but it won't quite work in this way...

...the main reason being that while Finca Vigia has good conditions for operating on the dogs, they can't take on the post-surgical care of lots of dogs at once, as they simply don't have any place to put them. So we'll have to modify this part of the campaign and do one or two dogs at a time, until they're all done. Then the dogs will have to be observed for a couple of months - until their hormonol change kicks in and hopefully brings with it a change in temperament. In the meantime, we'll start the wider community sterilization campaign, using Finca Vigia as the base. Because without stabilizing the wider dog population a big through keeping their reproduction rates down, we won't be able to control the Finca Vigia dog population either, as new dogs will constantly arrive.

Once Step 1 is complete, which may take a couple of months to get all the dogs operated and then a couple of months more to do careful observation of behaviour of pack behaviour, then - assuming things are controlled and calm - we'll start the cat reintroduction program.

Lots of interesting ideas for this but first, some background: as I mentioned, though Hemingway loved his dogs and apparently had eight or nine around at all times, his heart was really with cats, having over 50 at Finca Vigia at any one time. In his house at Finca Vigia, he had one room dedicated only to cats. And with the tower out back, the bottom floor was also completed dedicated to cats. Plus, among his staff, he had one person who was full-time responsible for the care of his animals, both dogs and cats. He also had some six-toed cats, just like he did when he was in Key West. As you know, six-toed cats do not constitute a breed, but instead represent a genetic mutation. I think, although I'm not sure, that it's a recessive gene, meaning that if both parents are six-toed, all their babies will be six-toed as well.

So what we want to do is to try to get lookalikes, among the cats, for some of Hemingway's famous cats. And what the Finca is doing is to use the same names for the dogs and cats on the premises that Hemingway used for his own dogs and cats. And we're thinking of eventually doing a "Hemingway cat lookalike" contest in the community, as well as possibly including neighbouring communities, for people to put any cat up for possible Finca Vigia adoption - and if the cat looks like one of Hemingway's favourites, it'll find its new home at Finca Vigia. We might combine this with some fun outreach education programmes about Hemingway and his animals, etc. Again, everyone liked this idea very much.

On Tuesday, after P becomes p, we're going to talk a bit more about our various ideas, and then probably Terry and I will draft a formal project, in English (both of us) and Spanish (me), pass it around for collective comments and feedback and additions, and then Museo Hemingway will formally submit it to the Consejo Nacional de Patrimonio Nacional (National Council of National Patrimony), under which Finca Vigia comes within the Ministry of Culture. And then it becomes an official project and, perhaps once it's a formal undertaking, with this weight we might be able to sort out the problem of food supply for the animals, with the Ministry of Culture entering into an agreement with the slaughteryards for a regular supply of viscera.

The cats will also get their own structure at Finca Vigia which might look like a miniature of the watchtower that's already there. This would give the cats a regular place for receiving food, having water, being able to climb up to higher "floors" and having a space that gives them protection from the sun, rain, etc. And visitors could go see them there as well as happily wandering around the grounds.

OK, now there's still another piece: this morning Terry and I met with the Sociedad Patrimonio, Comunidad y Medio Ambiente (SPCMA for short), which is the Heritage, Community and Environment Society that comes under the Historian's Office in Habana Vieja. It's the only NGO (non-governmental organization) in Habana Vieja. To briefly explain what SPCMA is about, it's a non-profit civil organization that includes individuals and institutions (national and international) who are interested in the preservation, rehabilitation, management, development and promotion of the historical, architectural and cultural heritage of the City of Havana, and in the community and environmental issues that affect the City.

Our main question to SPCMA was if they could be a co-sponsor of the Museo Hemingway project. In short, they said they couldn't do this, as, first, they're already up to their ears in projects, and second, San Francisco de Paula where Finca Vigia is located is outside of their territorial mandate. However, because of the importance of Finca Vigia and the project, they're prepared to do the following: if Finca Vigia itself has any problems getting the necessary customs clearance for donated materials and supplies for the project to enter Cuba, SPCMA is prepared, through their organization, to get the support from the Historian's Office for claering the entry of supplies into the country for the Finca Vigia project. This alone is a huge help to the project. And given how important Finca Vigia is as a museum, they're prepared to inform the Historian's Office about the project. And if we ourselves, through our own contacts, can't organize a propofol-experienced vet in time for Tuesday, they're prepared to help us do this through their own vet contacts in Habana Vieja. And, in the long run, we can also use their video camera to visually document the ongoing development of the project. (We can't use it next week, as the SPCMA will be using it to document their week-long programme of activities to makr World Environmental Day in Habana Vieja.)

So, this project is getting some very good collaboration...

And there's even more: I just spoke with Ada Rosa (director of Museo Hemingway) about an entirely different matter that Brian asked me to follow up on, and while talking with her, I gave her a brief rundown of our conversation this morning with the SPCMA. Ada Rosa said it's fabulous that SPCMA is prepared to help clear things into the country, as they have the links (Historian's Office) to do this, which the Finca doesn't. She also said that we should prepare to do TWO dogs on Tuesday, Pinto and Cucara, the latter being the female dog in heat who will be out of heat by then. I've just spoken with Terry (who wisely informed me of his meeting schedule today so that I'd know where to find him) to let him know.

In summary: on the Canadian end, the Spanky Project, PAWS, Hemingway on Stage and CCFA. On the Cuban end, Finca Vigia and SPCMA and who knows who else?

Sorry I've gone into such detail, but this email is part of documenting the development of the project.
Abrazotes para todos de Susana

Stayed tuned for more great news !!

Havana Here I Come

2010-06-02T12:38:00.004-04:00

It was up and out early this morning for a bus trip to Toronto's Lester B Pearson Airport.

Saying goodbye to your buddies is always hard.

This trip I used the services of Coach Canada to get me from the Quinte area to Toronto.
Usually I find myself taking the train then having to haul 100 lbs. worth of baggage from train station to airport.
This service provided me with direct service to the airport in about 2 hours.

The airport is deader than I have seen it in years. Upon check-in I was told that the flight was very light. I'll give some numbers in my next post.

With coffee in hand I guess I won't be catching up on my lost sleep.

Our first stop is the resort area of Holguin. I wonder how many of us are going onward.
The resort goers are usually lined up at check in before opening. This morning the queue way made up mainly of Cubans.

Mas tarde .....

Havana June 4 th

2010-05-29T10:26:00.005-04:00

On June 2nd I depart for another one week adventure in Havana. Thanks to generous donations, both monetary and in kind, I will be arriving with the usual near 100lbs of supplies for animal welfare projects.

One of the highlights of the visit will be the mass deparitization of dogs in Habana Vieja. Although the event organizers have every eventually well covered this event has put a stress on some supply levels.

If you could help by purchasing and delivering to Havana some supplies I have a unique experience for you.
Have you heard of the Polar Bar in Miramar?
How about the Canadian Embassy?
On June 4th the Canadian Embassy is hosting a BBQ / Musical event they affectionately call the Polar Bar. Rumour has it they have the "best hamburgers in Cuba". On this evening a Cuban rock band will be performing between 8 - 10 pm.
Sometime between 8:30 and 9:00 Tony Toffoli, the head of a newly formed international group called PATA - PAWS Cuba will give a presentation about their planned efforts to assist Cubans that are helping their animals.

So come by any time after 6:00pm with some supplies or a donation and you will be
warmly greeted.

"help the cats and dogs of Cuba, and Cuban organizations working with them, by supporting PATAS-PAWS Cuba. Donate and learn more at the Polar Bar!"

Address:
 Calle 30 No. 518 (esq. 7ma) Miramar (Playa) Ciudad de la Habana 

NEEDED SUPPLIES
From you local drug store or surgical supply outlet you can obtain ...
reusable needle with a gauge of 20,21 or 22.
syringes 1 cc and 3 cc
cotton balls
exam and surgical gloves

From a pets store ...
muzzles
flea & tick control (drops, shampoos,sprays)
bio degradable Poop n Scoop bags
These items can be purchased at Farmer’s Co-ops and Tractor Supply Stores (TSC) in Canada and the USA.

#40 (surgical) shaver blade for Oster clippers
Ivomec 1% Injectable or generic like Noromectin 1%
Strongid T (pyrantel pamoate)

It would be appreciated if you could drop me a line that you intended to attend. This way we can make sure we have a “cold one” for you.
I look forward to seeing you and telling you about the great people doing great things with Cubans to help their animals.

TERRY SHEWCHUK
 Spanky Project

1000 Dogs

2010-05-15T16:29:00.002-04:00

On June 7th I will be in Havana for a massive deparitization of 1000 dogs.
This event begins at 9:00 am at Convento de Belen in Old Havana.
The location is Calle Compostela between Luz y Acosta.(or just follow the barking)

Drop by and say HOLA if you are in Havana.
I will be the long grey haired bearded pooper scooper.

View Inglesia y Convento de Belen in a larger map

Spay Blitz in San Miguel de Allende -Volunteers Needed

2010-04-22T18:08:00.006-04:00

Yesterday I received news that

Amigos de Animales
in San Miguel de Allende, Mexico
are continuing their great work.

If you are in or plan to be in San Miguel during the dates below they could use some help.

UPCOMING BLITZ: SATURDAY AND SUNDAY, MAY 8-9, 9 AM to 5 PM

LOCATION:
The blitz will be held in the Escuela Primaria Gral, Avenida (or Calle) Manuel Avila Camacho, Comunidad de Don Diego, Colonia Santa Teresita de Don Diego. This colonia is on the road to Celaya just beyond Los Frailes on the right hand side, bordered by the Presa.

DIRECTIONS:
Detailed directions will follow as we get closer to the date.

ALTHOUGH THERE IS BUS SERVICE FROM SMA TO COLONIA SANTA TERESITA CLOSE TO THE BLITZ LOCATION, IT IS PROBABLY EASIER TO GET THERE BY CAR. WE ARE CONSIDERING OFFERING A SHUTTLE SERVICE FROM THE MEGA PARKING LOT TO THE LOCATION BUT NEED TO KNOW HOW MANY OF YOU WOULD NEED THIS SERVICE. PLEASE NOTE THAT THIS SHUTTLE WILL NOT RUN CONTINUOUSLY THROUGHOUT THE WEEKEND, BUT ONLY AT THE START AND END OF EACH SHIFT.

BLITZ VOLUNTEER JOBS:

If you want to work with dogs, please email Alex Delechambre to sign up.

If you want to work with cats, please email Pam Knoles
to sign up.

You may sign up for one day or two and choose either morning or afternoon hours that work best for you. When you e-mail, please specify the position(s) from the list below that you are interested in filling and the times you are available. Also, if you are a Spanish speaker, please let us know. Specifically for this blitz, also note whether you will need transportation (shuttle) from and to the Mega.

Volunteers are needed to help with:

- Posting flyers
- Setting-up
- Registration
- Weigh-in
- Number Calling
- Dog Recovery
- Dog Carrying
- Dog Recovery Calling
- Grooming (must have grooming tools and experience)
- Collars/Leashes Dispensing
- Check out
- Photography
- Errand Running (must have car)
- End of day clean up
- Post blitz pack up
- Shuttle driver (must have car)

PROXIMO BLITZ: SABADO Y DOMINGO, 8-9 DE MAYO, 9 AM HASTA 5 PM

DONDE:
El blitz estara en la Escuela Primaria Gral, Avenida (o Calle) Manuel Avila Camacho, Comunidad de Don Diego, Colonia Santa Teresita de Don Diego. Esa colonia esta en la carretera a Celaya pasada de Los Frailes a la derecha, lindado con la Presa.

SENAS:
Senas detalladas van a seguir mas cerca de la fecha.

AUNQUE HAY SERVICIO DE CAMION DE SMA A LA COLONIA SANTA TERESITA CERCA DEL BLITZ, ES MAS FACIL A LLEGAR EN COCHE. ESTAMOS CONSIDERANDO DE OFRECER UN SERVICIO DE SHUTTLE DESDE LA MEGA HASTA SANTA TERESITA PERO NECESITAMOS SABER CUANTOS VAN A NECESITAR ESTE SERVICIO. FAVOR DE REALISARSE QUE EL SHUTLLE NO VA A CORRER TODO EL DIA PERO SOLO AL INICIO Y AL FINAL DE CADA TURNO.

OPORTUNIDADES POR TRABAJO VOLUNTARIO:

Si ud. quiere trabajar con los perros, favor de mandar un correo electronico a Alex Delechambre a palomalex@yahoo.com para voluntar.

Si ud. quiere trabajar con los gatos, favor de mandar un correo electronico a Pam Knoles a pgknoles@yahoo.com para voluntar.

Se puede voluntar para uno o dos dias y escoger un turno en la manana o la tarde como quiere. Cuando manda su correo, favor de especificar su eleccion de la lista abajo y el turno que ud. elige. Especificamente para ese blitz, apunte si va a necesitar transporte (shuttle) desde y hasta la Mega.

Necesitamos voluntarios para:

Poner avisos
- Instalacion
Registracion
Pesar de las mascotas
Llamar los numeros
Recuperacion de perros
Llevar perros
Buscar duenos despues de recuperacion
Almohazar (necesite equipo y experiencia)
Collares/Correas
Check out
Fotografia
Ir de compras (tener que tiene coche)
Limpiar al fin del dia
Arreglar despues del Blitz
Shuttle chofer (tener que tiene coche)

Wish List Wednesday

2010-04-20T21:19:00.009-04:00

Allwormer

Havahart® Collapsible Live Animal Trap

Biodegradable Dog Poop Bags

Kids Interacting with Dogs Safely™ Coloring Book Spanish Version

The above items will be greatfully accepted in Havana, Cuba.
Should you not be able to deliver in person I would be happy to receive and arrange delivery.
Spanky Project
Box 224
Consecon ON K0K 1T0
Canada

Destination Specific
Street Animals of Morocco

Austin, Texas

San Miguel de Allende, Mexico

If you are in the USA - Christy at Peluma Cuba will happily accept donated supplies.

Peluma Cuba
P.O. Box 7322
West Palm Beach, FL 3340

Peluma Cuba also has a wishlist.

Amigos de Animales, Mexico

2010-04-03T19:32:00.012-04:00

(Animals have feelings and need love just like people)

During my visit to San Migel de Allende Mexico I had the opportunity to meet with Amigos de Animales' president Arno K. Naumann.

We meet at El Jardin during a fund raising campaign.

Amigos de Animales has been in operation since 2002. In that time they have run spay/neuter programs that average 1000 animals each year. Numbers like that make a huge difference in the stray population.

I addition to it’s spay and neuter programs Amigos de Animales promotes education on responsible pet care giving and animal welfare.

They are also guardians, overseeing the operation of San Miguel de Allende’s “dog pound”.
Amigo de Animals has situated a small clinic on site. Every day a Veterinarian on site
ensure that the condition of the animals ...the premises... and the level of care is of a humane standard.
Animals that enter the pound are not there long. City law mandates that if an animal is not claimed or adopted after 5 day they are put down.
Working with the state government they have changed the local method of euthanising animals from electrocution to more humane methods.

If you are planning a visit to San Miguel, and would like to assist or donate supplies,
Amigos de Animales
would be happy to hear from you.

S.P.A. Dog Training Program

2010-03-17T19:40:00.018-04:00

The S.P.A. facility in San Miguel de Allende conducts a wonderful training program - the brainchild of Kathi Hamblet.
-Kathi doles out the chicken bits-

S.P.A. TRAINING PROGRAM - PROGRAMA DE ENTRENAMIENTO

During these sessions, led by Tomas, the students learn training methods.
The shelter's dogs learn proper behaviour and socialization. This helps the dogs become more adoptable.

On this day a youthful group were completing a twelve week course of dog training. Usually restricted to students between 13 and 18 years this special session was held due to the overwhelming enthusiasm on the part of those registered.

For complete details on the S.P.A. TRAINING PROGRAM
- PROGRAMA DE ENTRENAMIENTO-
and how you can sponsor a student..
CLICK HERE.

The final task each session is to walk the cages.
This is an exercise of immense value.
All staff and volunteers are trained that when approaching a kennel to ignore the dog unless they sit and remain quiet.This is to reinforce behaviour that will work in the dog's favour
when any potential new caregiver comes to visits.

Good dog !!

Community outreach ...

On Tuesdays at 5:00 pm locals gather for an open training session in Parque Juarez.
Drop by and say "hola".

This is an excellent opportunity to meet Tomas and become familiar with his training methods... ... just like Skeeter did.

We had a stray, with a bout of mange, drop by to improve his people skills.

If you would like a consult...
email Tomas

Cycle4Strays - Mexico

2010-02-23T21:29:00.021-05:00

Here he goes again !!!

Davide departed the Best Friends sanctuary on January 26.
His journey will take him from Kanab, Utah (departure video) to Costa Rica where he will be greeted by the McKee Project.

The stars truly aligned for this meet. With Davide cycling through Mexico and us being in Patzcuaro for the month of February - Morelia was only 57km (35miles).

This was the first time Davide and I have met.
We have been in email contact regarding a cooperative effort - putting a Cycle4Stray Ride together in Cuba.

This initial meeting was great.
The dogs of the world have a true advocate in Davide and his work.
Mexican animal welfare groups will benefit with increased publicity as a result of this ride.
The fact that Aliac (Archivio Latinoamericano de Identificacion Animal) requested he remain in Guadalajara for several days is a testament to the interest this ride is garnering.

After conspiring on some canine adventures and enjoying espressos and tea we hit the streets.
We took Davide to visit a mobile/stationary spay neuter clinic located in Plaza del Carmen near the Museo de la Mascara.

Our timing was poor as it had closed for the day.
I look forward to providing more info on this outreach program.

Davide hit the road this morning for Mexico City.
Looks like there will be quite a reception upon arrival.

Follow the ride on..
TWITTER

Buen Viaje Davide.

This program is Skeeter approved!
DONATE !

Spa -San Miguel

2010-02-11T09:31:00.027-05:00

¡Ayúdeme!

The Sociedad Protectora de Animales (SPA) is the only animal shelter in San Miguel de Allende. It houses up to one hundred animals and is staffed 24/7. The shelter is self funded and relies on donations and income from the low cost veterinary clinic within.
During my first week in San Miguel I had a serendipitous event.
Kathi, a volunteer at SPA was my neighbour. At the time Kathi was fostering a puppy named Mercedez (Miche). Part of the fostering program requires the pet to be brought to SPA for vaccinations and regular check ups. Miche was due for some shots so we went to SPA and I was given a tour.

We left Miche in the capable hands of Dr.Vanessa and began our tour.

.
The first stop on the tour was a lesson for me.
Workers and volunteers are trained that when they approach a cage they are to ignore the dogs until they sit and remain quiet.
This "good" behaviour is reinforced with a treat reward.
This training is done so that when a prospective adopter approaches a cage the dogs are not all barking and jumping.
No doubt you have been a witness to "crazy" dogs in shelters.

SPA has the capacity for about 100 animals.
Above you will see some of the older kennels.
These are at a low end of the property which poses a problem during heavy rains.
New kennels, as in the photo of Kathi with the two dogs, will soon be the facility standard.

This is a no kill facility. No animal in SPA's care will be killed for lack of a speedy adoption.
This policy has saved the life of Silky. She has been at the facility for over four years.
No one can quite figure out why she has not been adopted.
It sure would be great if some of you in San Miguel could consider Silky as a new companion.

One of the great stress relievers for the "inmates" is the new dog park that has been opened as part of the facility.

Improvements at SPA are ongoing.
Every animal gets the greatest of care.
Every animals is spayed/neutered before adoption.
Help contribute to the betterment of San Miguel's furry denizens.

¡Help Me!

Blessings

2010-02-03T20:02:00.020-05:00

Upon our arrival in San Miguel de Allende we discovered a few events that were of much interest.

On January 17th, St.Anthony the Abbot Day, the blessing of the animals was held.

This event took place at a few locations around town. We attended the fourth annual “Blessing of the Poodles” held in front of the Oratorio de San Felipe Nari.

Locals and “Gringos” waited patiently for the event to begin.

Despite the event being called “Blessing of the Poodles” critters of all sort were brought forward.

Some of which were less than impressed with the goings on. Check out this little feline.

The Padre and his crew waited until all that wanted to be part of this blessed event came forward before calling it a day.

This day also allowed us to make some new friend.

Big or small ...

... share some love.

Austin "Pets Alive"

2010-01-27T11:45:00.018-05:00

During our drive south we took the opportunity to visit with friends.
Jayne, whom we met recently on a trip to Morocco, took us in for a night. To Skeeter’s amazement we spent that night in the company of cats that Jane fosters. I must say the cats handled this socialization much better than Skeeter.

For a number of years Jayne has be working with “Austin Pets Alive !” (APA!).
In providing foster care Jayne is assisting APA! in it's goal of making Austin TX a no kill city.

Austin has a unique trailer culture. It seems there is an over abundance of Airstreams.
Some of these have been converted, in many cases, into eateries.
Other even "mobile" vet clinics and welfare shelter / adoption centers.

Pets Alive has a spay / neuter / clinic trailer in the parking lot of an
Austin's Pizza.Pets alive also has a trailer located at Gibson and South Congress.
This location is know as the Baby Bottle Trailer. In addition to feeding puppies and kittens
this location serves as an adoption center.

In the Austin trailer tradition this location is shared with
Crepes Mille.

So, if you find yourself in Austin Texas drop by one of the Pets Alive locations and help the cause.
If you can't make it to Austin you can make a donation online.

Skeeter's Got Bling ....

2010-01-05T20:11:00.003-05:00

... and is headin' for the border !!!

All shot up and certified free of parasites.

Only 3522 kms to go.

Rafael Oliver Diaz

2010-01-01T15:45:00.010-05:00

As we enter this new year I would like to reflect upon a loss in the previous.

If you have visited the Spanky Project website you most likely have read about my first encounter with

Rafael Oliver Diaz.

Oliver was born in Havana, May 20th, 1915. As an Agricultural Engineer he held different positions in that field until his retirement. Oliver was also a professor at the University of Havana, where he taught Biological Sciences and microbiology.

Rafael Oliver Diaz was founder of the Cuban Association for the Protection of Animals and Plants (ANIPLANT). On the 19th of February, 1987 the group was formed with the aim to protect animals and plants.

Plans are in the works for a fitting memorial marker to be located at Oliver's place of rest, which is the Colon Cemetery in Havana.

Goodbye dear friend.
I'm sure you had a warm welcome at the Rainbow Bridge.

The announcement of Oliver's passing was reported September 2nd by
Radio Guantanamo.

It's better to give ...

2009-12-29T11:49:00.013-05:00

Having been a rescue myself I know what it's like to be held in a shelter.
We count the hours, days and even months until someone -- hopefully-- comes to take us home.
With hope we wait.

What can help pass the time is a new toy.
I know!!
Especially if I can help it make lots of noise.

Recently my pack went through the closet and to our surprise (not) there was an abundance of brand new toys ...
some of which could make a joyous noise.

Knowing that my shelter friends would appreciate these, we went for a drive.
After all, how many toys does one mutt need?

The
Quinte Humane Society
was our destination.
Located in Belleville, Ontario, this is the shelter from where my pack adopted Spanky.

My Mom made the delivery for me.

I would have done it myself but there was an outbreak of kennel cough.
It was best I stay in the car as I have a big road trip coming up.
MEXICO !!!!

As the new year approaches extend a paw and aid your local furry friends.

by
Ms. Skeeter Mudhen

Cycle 4 Strays

2009-12-12T14:48:00.006-05:00

A few months ago I was contacted by a gentleman named Davide Ulivieri of
Cycle 4 Strays.
Davide was interested in the work of the Spanky Project in Cuba.

Cycle 4 Strays Mission Statement:
A non competitive fund raising event, Cycle 4 Strays is dedicated to advancing the rights of homeless companion animals in developing nations.
By pedaling with no support vehicles, we wish to duplicate the hardships that strays experience on a daily basis throughout their lives, educating the public about responsible pet ownership and the need to be compassionate towards unwanted animals.
Our outreach programs refute violent methods of dog and cat population control, promoting spay and neuter instead as the only viable, long term solution to the tragedy of homeless pets.

The idea of Cycle4Strays was spawned in early 2009.
Click hear to read of the genesis.

Upon further discussion Davide asked if there would be interest in a Cycle4Strays event being held in Cuba. More on this later.

In January 2010 Davide will be cycling from Kanab,Utah to San Jose, Costa Rica in support of the McKee Project and our furry friends.
Read about 2010 ride.

I urge you to support Davide on his ride in support of our furry friends and the
McKee Foundation.

Donations are accepted at First Giving.

Campaña en Centro Habana.

2009-09-02T08:07:00.013-04:00

Dra.Magaly is the Director of the Colon Clinic in Centro Habana.
The joint and cooperative efforts of her clinic, Grupo Dulce Maria Loynaz
and the Spanky Project allows for free sterilization clinics to be held on a near monthly basis.

Colon is one of two (soon to be three) clinics that the
Spanky Project is working with.

Cats and dogs arrive in various forms of conveyance.

An important part of the program in Cuba involves education.
While the caregivers are waiting materials are provided to expand awareness
on the topic of animal care and welfare.

A history ...

and examination ...

...take place before each procedure.

The procedure is often completed in less than 15 minutes

Once the ear is tattooed all that is left is..

...post op and few zzzzzzzzzzz's

Another campaña completed.

Thanks go to the whole gang for their caring and dedication.
Also thanks go to those that have sponsored a spay.

Yo Quiero No Mas!

2009-07-22T17:46:00.005-04:00

Today is a sad day in dogdom.
The most famous Taco Bell spokesdog has died at the age of fifteen.
Gidget, helped make famous the slogans ...
"Yo quiero Taco Bell"
y
"Drop the chalupa"

In her hay day she traveled in limos and flew on corporate jets.
She even had the occasion to opened the New York Stock Exchange.
It has been reported that some Hipanic watchdogs protested that the commercial promoted stereotype and demanded they be removed from air.

Adios Gidget !

Canadian Chihuahua Rescue and Transport
British Chihuahua Rescue Association
Chihuahaua Rescue USA
Chihuahua Rescue Transport CRT

Wish List Wednesday

2009-06-23T19:31:00.006-04:00

I would like to take this opportunity to thank those that have delivered needed supplies to Cuba.

Although I haul big bags of supplies every trip...
every delivery is important no matter how small.

Flying with Cubana, one can check two bags of 23kg each.
With a 46 kg limit...

...you can even carry a gallon of medicated shampoo.

Please give some consideration to setting aside a small portion of you weight allowance to aid the Cubans that are supporting animal welfare.
Dogs, cats, horse....
Havana, Trinidad, Camagüey and Varadero...
I can provide you with convenient drop off locations.

Wish Lists

email

Delivering The Goods

2009-06-02T09:31:00.006-04:00

It was a good day today.
With the assistance of my friend Justo it was off to Vedado with the latest donations.
Waiting for us at Amparo’s were members of Dulce Maria Loynaz.

All arriving supplies are listed and checked by a veterinarian...

Before we go to the clinic a list is prepared which will be signed by the clinic director.  A detailed paper trail is mandatory for all donations

On this trip I brought anesthetic enough for around 100 spay/neuters depending on size. This anesthetic was purchased with donations received at the Spanky Project blog.

This morning we will deliver anesthetic for a campaña to be held in Centro Habana. 
Dra.Magaly (LEFT) is the director of the Colon Clinic in Centro Habana.

Patzcuaro

2009-05-28T07:39:00.005-04:00

After a few nights in Queretaro, and a side trip to San Miguel de Allende, we were off to Patzcuaro.
Thanks to some great research by Mags we stayed in a wonderful Casa.
I highly recommend Casa Encantada. Not only are the accommodations, food and staff great but the operators Cynthia and Victoria give back to the community. One of their projects involves support for a free sterilization clinic for animals.

Through their own efforts and support from AIPA in Monterry Mexico and Summerlee Foundation free sterilizations are available to the locals for their animals.
Upon my return to Canada I followed up with Cynthia and Victoria. I hope to be able to assist those helping the “ animalitos” in Patzcuaro.
If you find yourself visiting Patzcuaro drop off a donation at Casa Encantada.
Leave a little kindness behind before you leave.

Stay Tuned for Cuba postings.

Queretaro

2009-05-16T19:36:00.014-04:00

Where are all the dogs?
The first sign of dogs in the street happened to be sculptural in nature.
Plaza de Armas has a wonderful fountain that incorporates four canines.

I was surprised at the derth of streets dogs in Mexico's cities.
I put this down to one of two things..
successful sterilization programs
or
a very efficient dog catcher.
I lean towards the latter.

Here are some groups helping the animals of Mexico.
If you will be visiting any of these areas, drop them a line and ask how you can help.

Yucatan
AFAD Albergue Franciscano del Animal Desprotegido A.C

RAP Founder is Dhorea Ryon formerly of Coquitlam, BC Canada

Morelia
A.I.P.A. in Pátzcuaro

Baja California Sur
Baja Dogs La Paz

Guerrero
Rebeca Payne
OPALO 206
COLONIA CENTRO
ZIHUATANEJO, GUERRERO. MEXICO
TEL (755)554 3330

rebeca_payne@hotmail.com

Next stop Pátzcuaro

2009-05-05T08:41:00.005-04:00

¡FELIZ CUMPLEAÑOS!

Ms. "Skeeter" Mudhen.

My little girl is growing up.
Six years old today.
Heartworm negative for two years.
Still a "terrier-ist"

Mexico Querétaro

2009-04-20T15:53:00.009-04:00

Time sure does fly. I was stunned when I realized that it had been over a month between posts.
Speaking of flying...
During this hiatus I did find myself in Mexico for ten days.
During this trip stops were made in Querétaro, San Miguel de Allende, Pátzcuaro and Mexico City.

View Mexico April '09 in a larger map

Our route from Toronto to Mexico City took us through Atlanta's Hartsfield-Jackson International Airport. I have, in the past, been leery about arriving at my destination via connecting flights. We were allotted 55 minutes between our arrival in Atlanta and our onward flight to Mexico City. All went well. Hartsfield-Jackson is a well designed and efficient airport.

Arrival in Mexico City's International Airport Benito Juárez was also smooth. Terminal 2 is new and far superior to the older, drab, tired, etc. Terminal 1.
Within 20 minutes we had claimed our bags and the immigration officer was asking me if a 180 day visa was long enough.

Benito Juárez airport contains a bus terminal. We were lucky enough to have our destination town Querétaro served from the airport therefore eliminating the need to go to one of the city's other terminals.

Traveling on the Primera Plus bus line, we were at our destination town in just over 3 hours and 256 Pesos (25 Canadian).

Mexico is "tourist" friendly. At the bus terminal there is a booth that sells "taxi tickets".
The surrounding area is zoned for fare purposes. You buy your ticket, in our case centro historio, and head for the taxi stand. No haggling ... no fare disputes ... you just decide on the tip.

Our lodging in Querétaro was at Casa Santiago. Carl and Francis, a couple of ex-pat Canadians, purchased rubble and created a fabulous home for themselves along with wonderful guest accommodations.

Where are the dogs?

2009-04-20T08:24:00.002-04:00

We're back ....

Stay tuned for some Mexican connections.

Urgent Need!!!!

2009-03-04T19:06:00.011-05:00

The dogs and Protectoras of Havana need your help.
If you are looking for something small and compact that will have
a big impact.

...

50 mL. 1% Ivomec
Injection for Cattle and Swine
Dosed at a rate of 1/10 cc per lb. this product goes a long way.
Ivomec is a brand name ivermectin product.
Other brand names include Noramectin and Bimectin.

This product can be purchase online .
TSC Stores in the USA and farmers Co-ops in Canada carry these products.
You can also check with your veterinarian for a local source.

Ivermectin products are used at free worming sessions.

This one was held at the University of Havana garage.
The workers take care of a group of dogs that have made the garage a home.

If you can help there are two convenient delivery locations in Havana.
The Spanky Project also has contacts in Trinidad and Varadero.

Email me!

Celebración

2009-02-25T17:12:00.009-05:00

What do 6000 spay / neuters look like?
December 2003

Niña,Misu,Niña,Mariposa,Gordo,Murri,Viridiana,Sissi,Rayita,Marisol,Blanquita,
Luana, Malu,Sissi,Dinca,Sussy,Katy,Lassy,Max,Canela,Betty,Niña,Gaviota,
Hade,Sissi,Leona, Niña,Sissi, Luna,Flaqui,Sussy,Negrita, Lia,Niña, Canela,Mini,Malu,Duquesa,Astric,Romina, Negrita, Currucha, Negra,Muñeca,Mini1,Mini2,Latia,Minita,Pinta,Jivara,
Canela,Mochi,Niña,Niña, Apingora, Chiripa,
Negrita,Sofia,
Niña, Duquesa, Burbujita, Preciosa,Yassi,Sexy,Niña,Princesa,Lily,Luna, China,
Mocha, Chaquira, Roky,Negrita, Negra,Blanquita, Blanco, Sussy,Donatela,
Castigate,Princesa,Bijirita, Chiqui, Niña,Lala,Sofy,Catrina,Chiqui,
Musu, Niña,Misa,Niña,Palomo,Niño, Machito, Gaviota,Niña, Mariguana,Vengador,Princesa,Florencia, Linda,Bandy,
Canela, Niña, Lola,Dicsi,Mini, Bamba,Negrita,Medea,
Pintica, Estrellita, Chiquitina,
Chiqui,Blanca,
Linda, Buji,Tina,Panchita,Hade,Canela,Mirringuita, Chary, Rosita,Lissi,Elena, MonaFini,Manchi, Musa,Manolito,Linda, Dinky,Max,Negrita, Lala, Chivy, Cleo,Michita,Kiara,Gina,Laissy,Luna, Musiña, Miky, Almedio, Negrita, Negra,Negrita,Negrita,Negrita,Prince, Princesa, Sindy,Fefy,Yorky,
Lenta, Malu, Guarina, Machi, Fanny,Nala,Laika,Linda, Tuqui,
Yuvi,Yeira, Carina,Lassy,Tita, Sopita, Negrita,
Luna,Marina,
Niña,Niña,Yaika,Duquesa,Musa,Misu, Cuca,Fiona,Nemesia, Blanca,Rosa, Barsina, Misu,Felipe,Motica, Yasmin,Cleo,Brujita,Cosita,Chachi, Maricusa,Pelusa,Linda,
Yaria, Linda,Wendy,Lassy, Negrita, Negrita, Friqui, Chiquiña,Mocha, Suny, Boca,Bichi,Pepita,Sacha, Lucy,Chiquitica, Niña,Mini,Gretel,Misi,Kira,
Laura, Lati,Betty,Yeti,Deisy, Barsy,Rubia, Barsina,Rayita, Niña,
Shakira, Negrito,Micho,Picaso,Mariposita,Lucerito,Cielito,
Estrella, Mirringuita,Cosi ,Cleopatra, Nefertiti, Feucha,
Ricondo, Cesar,Augusto,Niño,Bonito,MusaI, MusaII,
MusaIII,Mirringuita, Lucero,Grisel,Kiara

Misita,Motica,Niña,Malu,Bruji.Suricata,
Mariposa,Miosoti,Matica,Domec,
Misu,Moñito,Suca,Via,Nora,
Monica,Bebe,Lola,
Mini,Yosy,
Mei,
Tigre,Leidy,
Kenia,Musa,Nefer,
Ramiro,Julieta,Suca,Duquesa,
Olaf,Eric,Laura,Sissi,Niña,Grisi,Omar,
Milagro,Lisi,Tito, Cintia,Maya,Sabina,Niña,Nani,
Negra,Negrita,Mariposa,Mimosa,Misuca, Enclenque,Benita, Tigresita,Pantera,Isabelita,Mariposit,Jimena,Luci,Shakira, Misitin, Misouri,Tigre,Boro,Mariposa,Orus,Luci,Muchi,Macha,Minina, Miqu,Tita, Beliña,Cuki,Lili,Negrita,Motica,Ali,Hanny,Suri, Blanca,Lequima, Misa,
Lili, Mariposita,Chula,Linda,Sissy,Pelusa,Cariñosa, Lupi,Alzu, Pipa,Lea,Fifita,Yoyi,Niña,Mariposa,
Mican,Via,Misugata
... and 5650 more

December 2008

In a period of five years more than 6000 spay / neuters have been provided free to the people of Havana. Those pictured in the above photographs are pioneers in Cuban animal welfare.
I am honoured to be a part of this group.

It takes many people to accomplish such a feat...
protectoras, vets, vet techs, caring people.

At the gathering in December 2008 Dr.Joe took the time to individually acknowledge the contribution of all those present.
Please note that Silvia (2nd from the left in the 2003 photo), a founding member of this group, is no longer in Cuba. At the celebration she was with us in spirit and represented by the happy dog.
Here's to 6000 more.
.... and to all those that have supported these campaigns.

Ground-Dog Day

2009-02-02T14:49:00.005-05:00

Ya ... aha... I see it?

So what does it mean?

It's A New Day

2009-01-20T12:01:00.001-05:00

"Let us seek together a better world in our time"-Barack Obama
We are the ones.

Si Se Puede!!!!