Vet Life nurse Kate Schmelz used her time off a few months ago to volunteer her services at the only vet clinic in the Cook Islands.
In December of last year, Ms Schmelz used her annual leave and flew to Rarotonga for two weeks to donate her services.
Te Are Manu, a charitable Cook Island vet clinic founded in 2017, is known for hosting volunteers from all over the world, especially New Zealand.
As a passionate vet nurse, Ms Schmelz has been waiting for the right moment to volunteer since the clinic was founded, and last year she was finally able to achieve her long-awaited goal.
After contacting the clinic, she was not only able to organise a two-week volunteer trip but also brought with her supplies she had collected from Wanaka to give to the clinic.
"I just contacted them ... sent them an email and said I was keen to come over.
"I had a bit of haul to take over as well with me" she said.
The clinic was open primarily Monday to Friday offering a range of services including de-sexing and other surgical procedures for both pets and stray animals.
Ms Schmelz said that a big part of her work on the island was desexing and helping educate the community to prevent stray cats and dogs.
"You don’t want unwanted kittens and puppies being born is the main thing.
"I guess because it’s an island like there’s only so many animals you want to have on there."
The clinic worked alongside the SPCA who helped pick up the pets of those that did not have transport.
Ms Schmelz described the experience as both rewarding and enjoyable, having had the chance to serve the community while also learning more about the Cook Islands.
"They put the volunteers up in a volunteer house which is very nicely bright, on the beach ... I really enjoyed that experience and meeting locals."
