Veterinary Treatment: Floreana and Isabela Islands

Photo By Red Mangrove

 

Photo By Red Mangrove

 

Photo By Red Mangrove

 

Photo By Red Mangrove

 

Red Mangrove aware that tourism activities have far-reaching and impact on small populations began a free of cost campaign to care for the horses on Isabela Island.
The first visit was in May 2010, when 176 horses owned by the muleteers of Puerto Villamil were treated.

This initiative gave excellent results that were verified by August on the second visit by the brigade of veterinarians. They found very important improvement in horses that received treatment. The horses gained an average of 40 pounds, achieving to solve the malnutrition which was one of the most serious problems; it was also leading to weekly horses' death. By now the deaths have ceased completely.

The August visit was also intended to train and achieve the muleteers to engage within the animals care and with the support of MAGAP (Ministerio de Agricultura de Galápagos ) started a process of certification of horses suitable to work in tourism. All this helped to the horse owners to become aware of the importance of caring for their horses and keep them in a healthy condition. The seminar given to the horse owners was also attended by 18 muleteers.

The following table shows the results, knowing that the valuation parameters were:
Weight gain, better hair, better spirited and increased body structure of the horses.