HSVMA Presents Grant to University of Florida College of Veterinary Medicine for Surgery TrainingNovember 9, 2010 The Humane Society Veterinary Medical Association has joined with the Florida-based Kislak Family Fund to present a $25,000 grant to the University of Florida College of Veterinary Medicine for a surgical training program that benefits injured and ill shelter animals. Dr. Natalie Isaza, who oversees the HAARTS program, and Willow, a rescued dog who received treatment through the program and is now up for adoption. University of Florida College of Veterinary Medicine The innovative UF surgical training program, known as Helping Alachua’s Animals Requiring Treatment and Surgery, is one of only two programs in the country that provides a variety of surgical training opportunities for veterinary students, while also providing care for shelter animals. “The HAARTS program is a perfect example of animal-welfare-friendly surgery training,” said Dr. Susan Krebsbach, an HSVMA veterinary consultant who presented the grant to the university on Monday. “It’s a win-win situation because the students get enhanced training opportunities, and injured and ill animals receive necessary medical care.” Types of procedures performed include fracture repair, mass removal, cystotomy and tooth extractions, among other procedures. Animals accepted into the program come from Alachua County animal rescue groups and the county animal shelter. “The HAARTS program has provided invaluable experience to veterinary students by exposing them to surgical techniques they will commonly see in veterinary practice,” said Dr. Natalie Isaza, who oversees the HAARTS program and accepted the grant on Monday. “Just as importantly, the program has helped save the lives of more than 200 animals in our community who most likely would have been euthanized due to lack of resources to pay for their care.” Background
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