TOWN BOOSTS DOG HEALTH PROGRAM IN YANDEYARRA

Indigenous Trainee Rangers Kevin Allen and colleague Francesca Gobel visited Yandeyarra community last week, educating residents on the dog heath program, raising awareness of responsible pet ownership and treating owned pets for fleas, ticks, mange and internal parasites.

The Town’s Rangers were able to treat 9 dogs and remove 14 unwanted animals.

“We’ve combined traditional knowledge with modern science to help implement the program,” Mr Allen said.

“People in the community were very interested in this collaborative approach with Pilbara Meta Maya.  We are trying to help integrate traditional customs with the needs of other stakeholders like government, to maintain the safety and health of residents of the community.”

Town of Port Hedland Chief Executive Officer Chris Adams said the community actively requested the Rangers visit.

“Council is dedicated to assist with Pilbara Meta Maya’s dog management program across remote communities to help reduce potential health risks and maintain an appropriate number of healthy dogs while promoting health messages to the community.”

Pilbara Meta Maya’s dog health program is funded through the Office of Aboriginal Health.

Further information can be obtained by contacting the Town of Port Hedland’s Rangers Services on (08) 9158 9700 or emailing adminrangers@porthedland.wa.gov.au

Kevin Allen applying Cydectin

Chris Adams

CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER

09 September 2009

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Media contacts

Town of Port Hedland:            Veronique Thomas-Smith (08) 9158 9355

publicityofficer@porthedland.wa.gov.au