Animals Fiji is set to launch a mobile clinic for pet owners beginning in September, as announced by co-founder and managing trustee Casey Quimby. The initiative was made possible through a GoFundMe campaign initiated in 2021, which raised $25,000 USD (approximately $50,000 FJD).
Quimby detailed that they have purchased a bus from Coastline Transport and are currently renovating it by removing its seats and electrical systems. “We aim to have it on the road by September,” she said.
For over 12 years, Animals Fiji has operated outreach clinics in various settings, including trucks, porches, and community halls. The introduction of the mobile clinic will allow the organization to offer services directly in neighborhoods. Quimby explained, “With the bus, we can park on every street or village without worrying about setup.”
Additionally, Animals Fiji is collaborating with the Lautoka City Council and the Ministry of Agriculture to gather data in the Tavakubu ward. Quimby noted, “Even with community outreach, people often didn’t know we were there or couldn’t bring their pets to us. The bus will solve this by bringing all necessary equipment directly to them.”
The mobile clinic will be staffed by two to four personnel and will include a generator, surgical tables, and facilities for sterilization. “We’ll have a camping layout with power for surgeries and recovery. Our team will handle sterilization on the road,” she explained.
The first clinics will be set up near Nadi and Lautoka to help the staff acclimate to the process. Quimby mentioned that the team is currently obtaining licenses from the Land Transport Authority to operate the bus.
Encouraged by positive community feedback, Animals Fiji is actively seeking sponsors to help cover costs associated with fuel, repairs, and maintenance. “We’re looking for annual sponsors who will have their logos displayed on the bus,” Quimby added.
While the bus has successfully passed mechanical inspections, the final preparations involve updating wheel taxes and completing the interior setup.