Veterinarians from the Australian and US armies, Spanish navy, World Vets and Vets Without Borders provided veterinary care to animals on a four-day mission in Timor-Leste last month.
The exercise was part of the Pacific Partnership annual humanitarian aid mission, and is sponsored by the US-led Pacific Fleet.
Queensland vet Major Amanda Parry, a reservist with the Australian Army, said her time in Puno, in the mountains region, was an invaluable experience.
“It’s very rewarding working here, and heartening to see how much the community appreciates your work,” she said.
The team largely treated dogs and pigs for fleas and worms, and provided a sterilisation service.
Veterinarians attached to the mission passed on information regarding disease control and animal handling, and learnt about how communities work with their livestock.
Over two months, the team has treated 1000 animals and engaged in about 30 community service projects in Tonga, Vanuatu, Papua New Guinea and Timor-Leste.
AMELIA DALTON
Picture: Seaman Nick Hearne and Major Amanda Parry at work in Puno, East Timor