Source: KNBA
A coalition of Alaska Native organizations is launching a two-year rural Veterinary public health program to provide free Veterinary services to approximately 80 Alaska villages beginning in July. Led by the Alaska Federation of Natives and Alaska Native Rural Veterinary, the initiative will offer rabies vaccinations, infectious disease testing, and spay and neuter services to improve animal and public health. Leaders say the program addresses longstanding challenges in remote communities where access to Veterinary care is limited and costly.
Rabies remains endemic in northern and western Alaska, with an estimated 25 human exposures each year, often involving infected wildlife and village dogs. The program also aims to reduce dog bites, which occur at significantly higher rates than the national average in some regions, while protecting subsistence wildlife from diseases such as distemper. Organizers hope the initiative will improve quality of life for both people and animals and serve as a foundation for sustainable Veterinary care in Alaska’s rural and tribal communities.
Read the full story HERE: https://www.knba.org/news/2026-06-29/a-new-program-will-bring-free-veterinary-care-to-80-alaska-villages