Run for Rabies, a Huge Success

Sunday, September 28, 2008 was World Rabies Day (WRD) which was observed all over the world. In Grenada, we observed this educational day on Saturday, September 27, 2008 at the Morne Rouge Playing Field in Grand Anse.

The schools of Medicine and Veterinary Medicine came together to provide a free health clinic for both humans and animals. Persons received blood pressure, blood sugar, vision & hearing checks as well as various examinations. Animals received physical examinations, flea treatments, dewormers and vaccinations if healthy. It was largely a success. The event was four hours long, but significant rain started to flood our location just over half way through. Nevertheless, when it was not raining, the turnout was great. During the first half of the event, SVM students examined over 40 dogs and cats!

Following the clinic, the Run for Rabies was held, which took participants on a route through Grand Anse, Golf Course, and Coconut Beach. Even though participants had to walk or jump through water to sign in, the event was still a success. Clad in their blue t-shirts, some of our runners were asked about Rabies, and thus the mission of education accomplished!

We are still finalizing the total amount raised at the event, as 100% of the money raised will be donated to the World Rabies Alliance. There were at least 80 participants in WRD activities Saturday. The event was supported by donations from Intervet/Schering-Plough (Garry Primeaux), Pfizer (Jen Lopez), and Hills (Shauna Anderson). Thanks to all of the sponsors, students, SOs, faculty and staff that participated!

Submitted by: Raye Taylor-Vokes, Term 3
St. George's University-School of Veterinary Medicine
SAAVMA Junior Delegate, LAS Secretary
PAWS Facilitator Co-Coordinator