Back on the Navajo Nation with Underdog
June 3rd, 2025
By Devon Krusko, Field Services and Community Programs Manager –
We recently returned to the Navajo Nation to partner with Underdog Animal Rescue and Rehab – Moab for a spay/neuter and wellness clinic that included vaccines and veterinary visits for sick or injured animals. We were also able to help a dog who was bitten by a rattlesnake, which, if left untreated, could have been fatal! These vital clinics offer lifesaving support and services for pets and their people on the reservation.
This clinic was set in a new location for the team, held at the Sweetwater Chapter House in Teec Nos Pos, Arizona. Because it was such a remote location, we were even more thrilled to play a role in increasing access to care in this area. Eight volunteers from six states joined this deployment, bringing a variety of skills to the team, including the ability to vaccinate animals, help them recover from surgery, and provide safe and expert animal handling. Additionally, we helped with registration and ensured families were well-versed in their pet’s post-surgery care.
Through wonderful collaboration:
- 116 pets had spay/neuter surgeries and the team performed an additional 2 special procedures
- 146 pets were seen at the vaccine clinic
- 22 pets were treated for injuries or illnesses
- Underdog took in 8 surrendered dogs
In a location where pet overpopulation has exploded, and access to veterinary services continues to be increasingly difficult due to cost, transportation, a lack of services, and more, we were so proud that our RedRover Responders team was invited back for our second clinic with the Underdog crew to help make this event a success!
