Tuesday, July 28, 2026 — Addressing public health with veterinary care in rural areas

A coalition of rural Alaska Native villages is launching an initiative to boost veterinary care as a way to improve public health. They aim to cut down on the increasing number of feral dogs that pose a risk to residents by offering better spay and neuter services. They also hope a vaccination program can lower the spread of rabies. Alaska Native Rural Veterinary Inc. and the Alaska Federation of Natives are moving ahead after federal legislation stalled in Congress. We’ll talk with those called to bring veterinary care to rural communities—with or without government support—to keep animals and people safe.

Robert Mirabel in the film. “Road to Everywhere.” (Photo: courtesy Driven To Films)

We also talk with acclaimed musician and actor, Robert Mirabal, about his role in the movie, Road to Everywhere. Mirabal is performing at a screening of the film in Albuquerque, New Mexico.

GUESTS

Mike Williams Sr. (Yupiaq), tribal chief of the Akiak Native Community

Adrianna Nicolay (Diné), volunteer with Rez Vet

Angie Fitch, executive director and co-founder of Alaska Native Rural Veterinary Inc.

Break 1 Music: Raising Goats Song [Skip Dance Song] (song) Sweethearts of Navajoland (artist) From the Heart of Diné Nation Traditional Songs of the Navajo (album)

Break 2 Music: Show the People (song) Bear Creek (artist) On The Move – Powwow Songs Recorded Live at Apache Gold