We are One!

On March 15, 2003, the Socrates Oliver Veterinary Hospital completed one year of existence. Having treated over 600 patients, of which 239 were stray animal neuter operations, and another 200 odd were animals vaccinated or treated free of cost, the staff celebrated the day in a spirit of quiet calm fulfillment.

For every patient who came in at death's door, and went home running, we offered thanks to God. The day began with a simple puja to the God of all animals, their patron saint St Francis, and a prayer for the Chairperson's grandfather, whose birthday it was too.

Dr Rathod offering prayers

This was followed by Gauri serving out a special scrumptious kheer, enjoyed most by Philo, who came in with severe dog bite wounds, and is now on her way to full recovery.

Philo, a dog bite miracle recovery

All the staff proudly wore their new olive green uniforms

Lunch was at Lynn's place with a cake and flowers to complete the
simple meal.

With Tony singing special love songs in Konkani for all his doggy girlfriends - Shaloo Puja, Sheba and Kitty. At the evening mass at the Salvador-do-Mundo church, the Vicar gave us a free commercial by announcing at the start that his dog Gurkha is now leading a healthy happy life after spending two weeks with us for treatment.

Here's hoping for many more years in service of the birds and animals of Goa, with the blessings of all our friends and wellwishers.