Te Are Manu, in collaboration with the Cook Islands SPCA, has officially launched the first of our southern Pa Enua veterinary treks for 2025, beginning with a successful week-long mission to Mangaia.

This project aims to provide much-needed veterinary care and animal population control services to the southern group islands, with upcoming trips planned to Mauke, Mitiaro and Atiu.

Our team travelled to Mangaia from April 28^th to May 2^nd, and with the incredible support of the Mangaian Island Council and the Ministry of Agriculture (MOA) team, we were able to deliver a wide range of veterinary services.

Over the course of the week, we desexed 32 dogs and 27 cats. In addition, we carried out 37 cat health checks and 21 dog consultations, which included flea and worming treatments.

A day was also dedicated to agricultural support, where we saw 58 goats, 18 pigs and two cattle. These visits focused mainly on health checks and parasite treatment, helping local farmers ensure the wellbeing of their livestock.

This work is vital to the long-term health of both animals and communities. Desexing dogs and cats plays a key role in population control, reducing stray populations and the spread of disease. It also has a direct impact on wildlife conservation – particularly in Mangaia, where the protection of native bird species from predation by stray cats is critical. By providing parasite control and basic medical care, we are also supporting human health and improving animal welfare across the board.

We are proud of what was accomplished in Mangaia and are deeply grateful for the warm welcome and collaboration we received. This trek would not have been possible without the funding support from the New Zealand High Commission, the dedication of the Cook Islands SPCA (with special thanks to Junior and Sarah Nooroa), the Mangaian Island Council, the Mangaia MOA team, and, most importantly, the Mangaian community who got behind the project with enthusiasm and care.

Looking ahead, we are preparing for our next treks in the southern group. We will be in Mauke from May 19^th to 23^rd, followed by Mitiaro from June 2^nd to 6^th, and concluding the southern leg with Atiu from June 23^rd to 27^th. We look forward to continuing this important work and building strong relationships with the communities we visit.

Our mission is to provide accessible veterinary services that improve animal health, support local agriculture and protect the unique biodiversity of the Cook Islands.

With continued support, we are confident that the Pa Enua project will make a lasting difference.

For more information or to support our work, please contact Te Are Manu.

• Dr Rose Hasegawa, medical director Te Are Manu Vet Clinic