Coalition Forces And Iraqi Army Conduct Animal Medical Clinic
The coalition worked with members of the local Iraqi Security forces to mount a veterinary clinic for farmers in the Fetoah region. The medical animal event was held to help support the efforts of Fetoah Farmers to rebuild and restock their flocks in the wake of a lot of battle damage over the last several years.
Iraqi Soldiers from the 17th Iraqi Army Division, 23rd Brigade, 2nd battalion, 4th company set up security for the effort, and medics and animal veterinary officers from the Coalition 101st Airborne, 3rd BCT, 35th Armored division.
Most of the animals were brought in from outlying regions, and received external pest treatments, and vaccinations and internal treatments for other diseases. Local farmers who did not have veterinary care previous to now were very pleased and excited to have their animals receiving care and assistance.
The VETCAP operation was held to assist local Iraqi veterinary officials who are just now starting to get back on their feet.
More than 200 sheep and a number of cattle were treated and given back to their farmer owners. The operation was a mobile operation, and instead of veterinary effort at one central location, the soldiers and veterinary officers moved around.
A number of local farms were visited and animals treated. This allowed more animals to be treated in less time, and was an efficient operation from start to finish.
