In the vast majority of Canadian communities it is unusual to have pets that have not been spayed or neutered or have not had regular vaccinations and basic health care. In fact, for most of us, it is difficult to imagine having little or no access to health care for your pets, however, there are countless pet owners in communities in Canada (and beyond) where this is the reality.

These communities are full of pet owners with dogs and cats that are not sterilized, not vaccinated and do not have access to minimal health care. They are either in very remote locations with no access OR the community members are financially not able to afford to travel to a veterinary clinic (often a fair distance) or pay for the services.

Rehoming pets is often used as a solution to overpopulation. This is a never-ending task for the animal welfare groups involved and the supply of new animals to replace those that were removed continues. Outbreaks of parvo virus and distemper are common and rabies is a real animal and human health threat in some areas.

The Canadian Animal Assistance Team (CAAT) is a registered charity that provides volunteer veterinary services right in the community so everyone has access. Our main focus is on Indigenous and remote communities. Along with services that address pet population control and disease prevention we also work in partnership with the community leaders toward a locally run, sustainable pet population management plan for the future.

Animal health is undeniably intertwined with the health of the people in the community (both physically and psychologically) thus helping the animals, helps the people and the community as a whole.

Most of our communities are remote access and getting to them is part of the challenge (and also the reason why they need our help!) To get our team members to the location to do the work that is needed, we rely on our Aeroplan program to help get them there. Your Aeroplan donation will make a difference to the animals in need.

Please visit our website at www.caat-canada.org or follow us on social media at:

Facebook https://www.facebook.com/CAAT.Canada/

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