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Why Caribbean Islands?

Spay-and-neuter programs are effective on Caribbean islands due to a combination of environmental factors and community support. The isolated nature of islands allows for more manageable, large-scale sterilization campaigns, which directly address the common problem of unmanaged free-roaming animals. By providing free or low-cost services, these programs can overcome financial barriers that prevent pet owners from getting their animals sterilized, ultimately leading to a decrease in stray populations, improved public health, and a more sustainable animal population on the island. 

HEALTH CHALLENGES

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  • Heat-Related Illnesses: Heat stress and potentially fatal heatstroke are significant problems for stray dogs, especially during heat waves. They often lack consistent access to shade and fresh, cool water,

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  • Dehydration: High temperatures lead to rapid water loss, making it a frequent and life-threatening risk.

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  • Parasites and Vector-Borne Diseases: The warm, humid conditions provide an ideal environment for parasites to thrive.

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  • Fleas and Ticks: These parasites are abundant year-round and transmit diseases like Lyme disease and Rocky Mountain Spotted fever.

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  • Intestinal Parasites: Hookworms (Ancylostoma spp.) and other gastrointestinal parasites are highly prevalent, as their eggs and larvae survive well in the environment, posing a constant health risk to the dogs and a potential zoonotic risk to humans.

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  • Mosquito-borne diseases: Heartworm disease, spread by mosquitoes, is another persistent threat in the tropical climate.

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  • Skin Conditions: Flea bites can lead to dermatitis and secondary skin infections if scratched repeatedly, a common issue in hot, humid environments.

 

  • CTVT: is a unique, contagious cancer that is transmitted primarily through sexual contact, though it can also spread through non-sexual contact like licking, sniffing, or biting tumor-affected areas.

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