Healthier animals equals healthier communities, says Julie Seidman. She is a logistic coordinator for Taveuni Animal Lovers.
In 2012, Ms Seidman started living part- time in Taveuni.
She is from California in the United States of America.
With her vet nurse background, she recognised the out of control stray animal problem.
“I’ve helped charities from Australia and Viti Levu, but recognised Taveuni, being the 3rd largest island, needed its own charity for animals,” she said.
Their services include finding homes for homeless animals, teaching villagers basic animal husbandry, instilling the importance of good nutrition, worm and flea treatment plus the ongoing promotion of “One World One Health”.
“A major part of our mission is to supply desexing to remote villages and settlements in Taveuni that do not have access to veterinary services either due to transport or expense.”
Their organisation recruits volunteer vets and vet nurses to supply professional services which are exclusively funded by donations.
How Many Places Have You Visited Around Fiji?
Mostly the Nadi and Suva areas for brief periods.
Our home is Taveuni Island
A part of the island of Taveuni.
What Is One Place In Fiji You Would Take Visitors To, and Why?
Bouma Falls in Taveuni.
A scenic hike with 3 different waterfalls to view and swim around.
Bouma Waterfall. Photo: Paul’s Travel Pictures
What Is Your Favourite Place For Coffee / Pie and Why?
In Naqara, Taveuni’s only main town, there’s a cafe called Paradise Cafe.
Very homey feel and is managed by locals.
Their Passion Fruit donuts are to die for!
What Is Your Favourite Backyard Sport?
Playing catch with my husband or running around with the dogs.
What Is One Place In Fiji That Remains On Your Bucket List, and Why?
Would love to someday visit the Yasawas and the Mamanuca islands.
They have lovely white sandy beaches.
Taveuni is volcanic so white sandy beaches are quite rare here.
The Mamanuca Islands
Feedback: selita.bolanavanua@fijisun.com.fj