Ruby Ma, clinic manager of Saipan Humane Society, holds a playful dog at their Garapan facility.
A VETERINARIAN and two veterinary technicians from Washington State University will be on island this week to conduct animal welfare clinics, train Saipan Humane Society staff, and assess the food needs of animals owned by local ranchers, SHS said in a news release.
Dr. Jessica Bell, a veterinarian, and veterinary technicians Aleena Nemeth and Nicole Valdez will provide clinical care for island pets on Dec. 5, 7, 9, 10, and 12 from 9:30 a.m. to 2:30 p.m., SHS said.
The focus of this visit will be clinical care and training, not spay/neuter, SHS added.
The visit is funded by a USDA NextGen Grant (No. 2023-70440-40175), a five-year initiative of Northern Marianas College with Washington State University as a key strategic partner.
While the visiting team is on island, they will also assist with health certificates for pet export or travel, with help from DLNR Animal Health Services, on Dec. 9 and 10.
Ruby Ma, clinic manager for SHS, said the health certificate is a document required by airlines for animals departing Saipan. The document can only be certified if signed by a USDA-accredited veterinarian.
To schedule an appointment, go to www.saipanhumanesociety.org/, email info@saipanhumanesociety.org or call (670) 233-7387.
Bell and her team will also host an educational session in Room V-205 at Northern Marianas College, 4 p.m. on Friday, Dec. 6. They will discuss veterinary career pathways and responsible pet ownership.
The session, which is open to the public, will also emphasize opportunities for NMC students and employees.
