Tongatapu May 2025: From the Lead Vet
I have volunteered multiple times with SPAW but this experience was nothing short of incredible. We had a hardworking, adaptable and positive team of eight vets and nurses who worked extremely well together to treat hundreds of animals in what were very challenging conditions. Torrential rain, high winds, a power outage, having no water at our accommodation and illness among the group, were some of the issues the team worked through during the week-long clinic. Despite this, laughter was abundant and the support from those with more experience was invaluable. Many of us picked up new techniques and I’m certain that everyone walked away having learned something.
One of the most challenging cases we attempted was a dog suffering from a diaphragmatic hernia after being hit by a car a month earlier. The dog was struggling to breathe and the damage was extensive — its liver had shifted into its chest and fused to the heart with fibrin. Despite the combined efforts of two veterinarians and three nurses, the surgeons ultimately had to make the decision to euthanise him. The complexity of the case exceeded what could realistically be handled in the clinic. Nonetheless, they were heroes for trying, giving the dog every possible chance under very difficult circumstances. The owners were aware that the outcome was likely grim before the surgery began.
We were grateful to have the support of MAFF and Volunteer Services Abroad (VSA), who entered surgery cases, worked through consultations and ensured everything ran smoothly. Their ability to oversee patient recovery and discharge surgical cases helped enormously in ensuring the team could handle the volume of cases that came through the doors.
On the final day, with our flight scheduled for 10:45pm, we made the most of our time with an island tour. It was the perfect way to wrap up the trip — relaxing on the sand, swimming in the ocean, seeing some sights and enjoying a delicious local BBQ lunch. A great finish to the week! It’s been nearly 10 years now since I went on my first SPAW clinic. Despite the challenges, it is a privilege being able to give back to communities where our skills are needed and the services provided make such a huge difference. As always, the pet owners were grateful for all of the support offered. Thank you to my team and to the other volunteers that made this trip such a success for Tonga but also for me. Working with such great people under trying conditions was definitely my highlight and one of the reasons I keep going back.
