Everything Under The Sun: From The US To Uganda

The children from Laminadara taking their field trip at the rhino sanctuary.

There are animal welfare groups in many parts of the world. Some, like THE BIG FIX UGANDA, working primarily in northern Uganda, have arms that reach out into more developed countries, where there are more resources, for critical assistance and supplies. In the countries that they serve, frequently the people who have the animals need as much help as the animals themselves. So, their services must be broader, serving the people as much as the animals.

Sarah Schmidt, who is secretary of The Big Fix, noted the lack of resources in the local schools. Books were scarce, both in the schools and in students' homes. That gave her an idea, which became story, Adongpiny & TamPira, about a woman and her dog, written by both Sarah and Dr. Wilfrid Opira. In addition, older children were enlisted to make coloring book-type drawings, corresponding with the text (in both English and Luo).

Once written, the book was printed and has been distributed inexpensively into the local schools for the children to enjoy. The next step was organizing Animal Kindness Clubs for children. A total of 28 clubs with about 30 members each, have been established in schools and with local advocacy groups. Club leaders meet about every two months for support and direction in completing the next portion of the Club's activity schedule. Each year there is a special trip for the most active club. The Laminadara Animal Kindness Club was rewarded with a trip to Ziwa Rhino Sanctuary in January.

Some of the Clubs' activities have included: a "Wash Your Dog" event; learning dog training with positive rewards; participating in radio talk shows; giving educational talks and performances; and looking out for cases of animal neglect in the villages. Children learn about the special bond between people and animals, about treating animals kindly, and about animal rights, through participating in the activities.

Some of the other activities of The Big Fix Uganda include The Comfort Dog Project, which uses the healing power of dogs to help those who have been traumatized in Uganda's conflicts; Mission Rabies, which provides free rabies vaccinations, particularly in areas where rabies has been reported; spay/neuter services; free comprehensive veterinary care for people residing in the impoverished villages; anti-cruelty investigations; and various types of animal education experiences. The group is raising money to complete construction of an animal hospital, with a target opening date in June 2016.

The Big Fix Uganda conducting outreach in the schools of Gulu district.

There is even a Volunteer Adventure trip being offered for one week in July of this year. Volunteers will work with staff of The Big Fix, helping to immunize vulnerable animals. The trip is under the sponsorship of MISSION RABIES. There are other ways to help out, including monetary donations. And the part of the organization that isn't in Uganda is located in Olympia, Washington. And that is what makes the connection with the more developed country, where there are more resources available to help.