The Manitoba Animal Alliance (MAA) is hosting an upcoming “open to all” veterinary clinic in Fisher Branch later this month to supplement residents’ access to rural veterinary medicine.
MAA founder Debra Vandekerhove said this is the first time they’ve held a clinic that’s open to all Interlake residents.
The clinic will not only provide access to vet care for some rural residents who don’t always have a convenient way to access it, but also provide a low-cost alternative for families struggling with the high cost of living.
“When on a tight budget sometimes a little bit of help goes a long way,” said Vandekerhove. “Rural homeowners sometimes don’t see the same opportunities as in the city. We want to change that.”
In August 2024, the MAA teamed up with area veterinarians, the RM of Fisher, sponsors and volunteers to hold a low-cost veterinary spay, neuter and vaccination clinic in Fisher Branch for RM residents only. Seventy-four animals were treated last year, making it a very busy clinic and showing the demand for veterinary services in that municipality alone.
This year’s clinic will consist of a full veterinary exam, two vaccines to protect pets from rabies and distemper, and a copy of the exam for $60. Cats will receive ear mite medication and dogs will receive de-wormer medication. MAA will also be bringing what pet food it can secure for clients since a delayed shipment of food may not be available by the time of the clinic on Sept. 27.
Headquartered in Sandy Hook, MAA is a registered charity that Vandekerkhove founded in 2013. It provides remote veterinarian clinics in partnership with veterinarians and communities, as well as emergency animal services. It flies companion, homeless, injured and abandoned pets out of remote and northern communities and works with communities to support pet-management programs.
MAA’s veterinary clinic in Fisher Branch is open to all residents of the Interlake. It will be held on Saturday, Sept. 27 at the Ukrainian National Home (hall) at 33 Provencher St. from 10:30 a.m. to 2:30 p.m.
Visit animal alliance on social media. To book an appointment, email FBspayneuterclinic@gmail.com.
