Grant: Dissemination Events - PA: First Nations, Inuit and Métis Health

First Nations people, particularly in Canada's north, have in the past depended on dogs for protection, companionship and transportation. Dogs continue to play an important role in these communities, providing personal, cultural, recreational, and economic benefits. The issues faced by this population of animals and their interactions with humans are not widely documented; exceptions are, canine overpopulation and resulting unprovoked, often fatal attacks on aboriginal children. First Nation communities have recognized and attempted to address these issues for years; unfortunately, the limited resources available for dog management have been ineffective for many communities. The vision for this two day conference is to promote discussions within the communities, within academia, within the medical and veterinary profession and between all of these stakeholders on sustainable animal management options. By starting a dialogue between communities and interested stakeholders, research collaborations or solution based partnerships can be initiated that could have long-lasting impacts on the health of animal and human individuals in these communities or the overall health of the whole community.