Building a Better World for Animals Through Project Samana
Project Samana was founded in 1993 by a group of veterinarians from the Massachusetts Veterinary Medical Association who dedicated themselves to animals in need in the Samana peninsula in the Dominican Republic, one of the poorest countries in the world. Animal ownership is very common, particularly that of horses, donkeys, and mules, who play a vital role in the culture and livelihood of the residents. Due to their struggling economic conditions, however, many residents do not have the resources to focus on the welfare of their animals. That’s where Project Samana fills the gap.
Our Connection with Project Samana
Our hospital director and veterinarian at Stone Mountain, Dr. Carrie McColgan has been involved with Project Samana since 2003. Starting in January 2018, she now serves as the organization’s president. Her first experience in the Dominican Republic had a deep influence over her, and she soon after dedicated herself to international veterinary medicine and welfare issues of working animals in developing countries. In 2015, a number of our vets and staff made their first journey to the Dominican Republic along with Dr. McColgan. Now many of our staff go routinely each year!
Treating Animals and Empowering People
Project Samana focuses on the welfare of horses, mules, and donkeys, as well as companion animals including cats and dogs. The team provides both medical care for the animals and education for their owners. Some of the services provided include:
For equines:
- Castration for stallions
- Dental care since diseases of the mouth and teeth are a serious problem
- Lameness evaluations and treatment
- Senior horse care
- Wound care for injuries
For cats and dogs:
- Spay and neuter surgeries
- Vaccinations (particularly rabies)
- Treatment for parasites
- Basic medical care for wounds or injuries
- Donated collars and leashes for dogs
- Post-surgical medication for at-home recovery
For people:
- Education about parasite control, basic first aid, nutrition, and animal husbandry
- Local animal health seminars in the community
- Medical and surgical training to students and vets from Dominican schools
For more information about Project Samana, visit their website at projectsamana.org, or ask us at your next visit!