Pups’ health at forefront

Geraldton pooches and their owners gathered on the foreshore when the RSPCA held a community action day to promote pet health.

With assistance from local TAFE veterinary nursing students, Geraldton Dog Rescue and Mid West Vets, around 150 animals were checked for worms, ticks and diseases.

RSPCA community outreach officer Nat Foster said there had been a huge demand for the group’s assistance, with people lining up an hour before the event started, and half the supply of dog food for the needy had gone within the first half-hour.

“Most of the dogs are in good nick, but there are just a few people who we’re trying to touch, who might not have the money for food or worm treatment and that’s the whole reason for the event — we’re trying to help everyone out before there’s a real issue,” she said.

“Financially at the moment a lot of people are struggling, so if we can get in there and help them with the basics, just food and a health check, and if there’s issues they can ... book to see a vet.

“It’s all about education ... I said to the ranger, ‘leave your infringement book in the car’ because it’s not in the spirit of what we’re doing here.”

TAFE lecturer Skye Strutton said the day was an exceptional chance for the students to practise their client communication and train them in a real world practical environment.