Sunday, May 6, 2012

Pre-trip entry


In one week I will be on a plane, headed to the Top of the World, Barrow, AK. 

Why? Well, I've been offered an externship with the North Slope Borough and the Arctic Slope Regional Corporation to work with the current veterinarian in Barrow. This involves visiting some of the Arctic Slope Villages to vaccinate dogs for rabies and perform spays and neuters to control the domestic dog population. Rabies is actually endemic in the arctic foxes, so it is important that all dogs be vaccinated for rabies so that people do not encounter a rabid dog. In fact, I've recently received my rabies vaccine as well. Bring it on, Arctic Foxes!

I arrive in Barrow on Saturday, May 12th and will be flying out to Point Hope and Point Lay on May 17th until May 25th. Its going to be busy first couple of weeks!

I'm excited for this very unique opportunity and once in a lifetime experience. I have always wanted to meet my relatives in Alaska and to learn more about my native Alaskan heritage, I might even get to experience a whaling festival in late May or June! I will miss my family, friends, and my boyfriend terribly and I will miss the warmth of the hot summer sun., but it will be worth it. 

I can't wait to see what the next 3 months hold in store for me. 


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