Team ECCO (Ecuador & Columbia): South America

We are very excited to be able to be part of the Global Vets initiative. We will be travelling to Ecuador and Colombia where we will be working with local shelters and veterinarians. Veterinarians in these communities are essential for the health of animals, welfare and agriculture. Our journey not only involves helping animals in need, but also making a difference in the community. There is not only a lot that we can give but a lot that we can learn and gain from this experience. Your support can help make a difference in the lives of animals as well as help us gain new knowledge that is paramount in our development as veterinarians.

Placements:

• PAE – Ecuador
• UDCA (universidad de ciencias aplicadas y ambientales) – Bogotá, Colombia
• Dr. Susana Franco (Field service veterinarian)- Bogotá, Colombia
• ADA (Asociacion Defensora de Animales y del Ambiente) -Bogotá, Colombia

A little bit about ourselves:

Alejandra: I am thrilled to be part of Global Vets 2016!!! Even before I was admited into Vet school, Global Vets was in my mind. I can relate with the program’s philosophy of promoting international collaboration on animal health and welfare, agricultural development and ecosystem health. As an individual I am passionate about my profession and I have an innate desire to help. The opportunity to participate in Global Vets 2016 allows me to combine all my interests. I have a keen interest in being able to collaborate with felow colleagues around the world. I am hopeful that this journey will be only the beginning of a life long commitment to promoting animal health and welfare globally. I am originally from Colombia, so having the opportunity to go back to South America to be involved in population control programs and volunteer my time to help make a difference will be incredibly rewarding for me. I am very greateful for the amazing support that Global Vets 2016 has received from mentors, family, friends, the OVC community and various companies as we embarc on this journey. I couldn’t have asked for a better team mate and friend to share this extraordinary adventure with.

Emma: I have always had a love for animals, growing up my dream was to become a veterinarian.  I was ecstatic the day I found out I was accepted into the doctor of veterinary medicine program at the Ontario Veterinary College.   Throughout my development as a veterinary student, I have always been intrigued by traveling abroad.  I am thrilled to have the opportunity to travel with the Global Vets 2016 team.  I have always had a passion for learning and being a part of this program will allow me to continue my lifelong education.  This trip will not only be about gaining knowledge of veterinary medicine but also lifelong virtues that can be used in an everyday setting.  I hope to be able to help animals and people in need in the communities I will be traveling too, as well as too submerse myself in different cultures.  I place great confidence in my team mate and I to enjoy our travels and make a difference.