St. Croix Fix!

          ABBEY ANIMAL HOSPITAL

 (757) 471-1003

    Did you know that approximately 4.5 million people each year are bitten by dogs?  These result in over 800,000 people seeking medical attention. This problem affects children the most. Almost half of those bitten are under the age of 12.  We in the United States are privileged to some of the most sophisticated veterinary medicine on Earth and yet dog bites are still a major problem in this country.  Sometimes it is hard to imagine what it must be like to live in areas where this type of help is not available.  One area where the feral dog population was out of control not so long ago and strays are still a problem, is St. Croix.  Some older residents walk with large sticks for fear of dog bites.  Pet population control is imperative.

    As part of our Final Fix Project, Abbey Animal Hospital and  FiXiT Foundation is joining forces with the only animal shelter on St. Croix in the U.S. Virgin Islands, St. Croix Animal Welfare Center.  We will offer no cost spay/neuter for the residents of St. Croix to overcome the 80% euthanasia rate that plagues the island.  Beginning in October 2012, veterinarians will be encouraged to visit and volunteer services to the public both at the shelter and in high shelter intake neighborhoods in a mobile spay/neuter clinic.  Surgeries will be provided in a high pace/high volume environment.  Abbey Animal Hospital will be sending Dr. Knopp down to donate a week of surgeries in October (provided there are no hurricanes in the area) and to help out with these veterinary problems.

    To offset the costs associated with this project, Abbey Animal Hospital will be donating 2$ for each six months supply of Vectra that is sold for flea and tick control and will match any donation for this cause.  We are encouraging owners to protect their furry companions from fleas and ticks as well as donate to a good cause.