Our reflections by Dillon and Kenneth, final year vet students, University of Adelaide

Our placement at Noah’s Ark Natural Animal Sanctuary (NANAS) was truly a memorable experience. Upon stepping into the sanctuary, we were welcomed by dogs of all breeds, ages, colours and sizes (even number of legs). Although each of them had a different physical appearance and personality, one thing common amongst them was their freedom and happiness. This emotional state is possible because of the environment (and home) which the ark provides. The property is aptly named a sanctuary; a safe haven for the animals, a home for abandoned, abused and neglected pets and a place where the animals are protected and taken care of.

One of the many areas the dogs are allowed to roam.

The Cat Wisma, a 2 story house specially for the cats to live in.

The sanctuary also houses the Animal Birth Control clinic which aims to provide low cost sterilization of animals to the community. We spent most of our first week in here, performing spay and neuter surgeries under the watchful eye of Raymund. Under his guidance, we learnt many different surgical techniques and how to handle various situations in ‘shelter’ surgery. This has helped us to gain confidence and become competent in the tissue handling and resolving problems.  

From left: Kenneth and Dillon performing sterilization of female cats in Malacca.

In our second week, we were given the opportunity to perform numerous sterilizations on stray animals and pets in the different communities in Muar and Malacca. This has helped us to further develop our knowledge and skills set.  Besides the technical skills, we were also able to grasp a good understanding of shelter medicine. Raymund also shared with us the structure of the organization and its role in reducing the number of stray animals on the street. Through our interaction with him, we gained an insight into his passion and love for the animals, which is what motivates him everyday.

Among the many conversations we had with Raymund, there is one thing that stands out. He told us - the only way an animal can reciprocate your support and kindness (choosing to rescue, save, treat them etc) is with its love and affection. It is this innocence and purity that compels people to give back to the animal society.

Dillon with the playful cats in the wisma.

Kenneth bidding goodbye to the canine residents at Noah's Ark.

  

In summary, our experience at Noah's Ark has been a rewarding and meaningful one. We would like to express our gratitude to Raymund and his staff for their kind hospitality and for providing us with delicious food each meal. We would encourage anyone reading this to find out more about Noah’s Ark Natural Animal Sanctuary, to share in its vision and join its cause in providing a better tomorrow for all animals.

"The greatness of a nation and its moral progress can be judged by the way its animals are treated." - Mahatma Gandhi .

Written by Dillon & Kenneth

Final year vet students, University of Adelaide