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 SPANA has been working in Jordan since 1987, initially through the JSPA, now in partnership with SPANA-Jordan. Its core function is to provide free veterinary care to the working animals of poor people. From its headquarters and base hospital in Wadi Al Seer, Amman, and a secondary centre in the Jordan Valley, mobile clinics cover nearly all of central and northern Jordan. Last year, its twenty-five staff, including veterinary surgeons, technicians and veterinary nurses treated over thirty-five thousand animals (over 27,000 equines as well as nearly 4,000 dogs and cats), all completely free of charge.
From the very beginning, SPANA has run a successful Education Programme to inform owners, train farriers and saddlers, and provide practical experience for veterinary students.
However, perhaps the most exciting development is the construction of the Educational Animal Centre in Um-Quseir, East Amman, in co-operation with the Ministry of Education.
SPANA’s objective is to increase awareness of animal welfare and the need to protect Jordan’s fragile environment. The Centre provides opportunities to reinforce lessons about animals and their role in the environment, as taught in the curriculum and in the SPANA schools’ Animal Clubs. It will allow children, from an increasingly urban society, to experience live animals and nature in a controlled and supervised environment.
The Centre has an exciting and innovative, interactive exhibition as well as a well-equipped and air-conditioned classroom with a fully trained staff.
Children are able to touch and feed farm animals kept in ideal conditions, as well as handling small animals and pets. There is an environmental pond to provide first-hand biology and ecology experience, and a guided nature trail through miniature versions of Jordan’s various habitats to explore. The beautiful butterfly gardens, along with shaded picnic and work areas provide a unique educational opportunity for the children of Jordan. |
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SPANA - Jordan
