Indigenous community dog health program

• Reach:

  NSW

• Focus area:

  Indigenous

• Status:

  Current

• Evaluated:

  No

Overview

This program aims to improve the health and safety of Aboriginal children and families in rural New South Wales Aboriginal communities through:

• the delivery of veterinary (vet) services

• the presentation of information to schools and the community on the links between human and animal health, including the prevention of dog bites and tips on animal health and well-being

• working with the local groups, including: local area land councils; Aboriginal health services; regional area health services; local shire councils; Aboriginal corporations and local vets and other interested stake-holders, to develop an animal management plan and to establish the role of a local animal health care worker to ensure the program continues.

This program involves environmental health officers working in the population health unit of regional area health services.

Communities visited so far include Boggabilla, Bourke, Bowraville, Brewarrina, Collarenebri, Enngonia, Gingie, Goodooga, Ivanhoe, Jabullum, Namoi, Purfleet, Taree, Toomelah, Walgett, Walhallow, Weilmoringle and Wilcannia.

Abstract adapted from RSPCA New South Wales

Contacts

RSPCA NSW
PO Box 34
Yagoona NSW 2199
Ph: (02) 9770 7555
Email: amwithers@rspcansw.org.au

Links

• View information: Indigenous community dog health program
• View information: Wicannia dog desexing and health clinic
• View website: RSPCA New South Wales