Hello, this is Cliff Redford. I'm a veterinarian who travels around the world to help people

and animals in need, and you're listening to The Happy Pod on the BBC World Service.

I'm Alex Ritson, and in this edition, the vet who's found fulfillment offering his

lifesaving skills for free around the world.

These trips make me a better person, they make me a better father. It just teaches me to love life

and to love people from different walks of life. Why a man in his 80s has opened his home

to vulnerable children through foster care.

It's partly selfish. It keeps me, you know, I lost my wife about five or six years ago and can be pretty lonely once you're on your own. And I wanted to do something other than

just sit and watch television. Also, a chance to own a piece of comedy history and...

It was over 300 pints, we think, at the end, but well worth it.

The pub landlady whose footballing free drinks offer turned into a bit of an own goal.

He starts with the story of a Canadian vet who's been giving his time to pet owners around the world,

treating animals in Jamaica, Greece and twice he's been in Ukraine since the war with Russia started.

Cliff Redford from Markham in Ontario has run his own clinic for 25 years,

but he likes to spend time away volunteering

and giving his skills in places where there is a shortage of vets.

His most recent expedition, the town of Iqalooet, in the most northerly Canadian territory

of Nunavut. He spoke to Harry Bly about his adventures, starting with Ica Llewitt.

I've been a veterinarian since 1998, so a little bit over half my life.

I love it.

It is the greatest profession, and I love traveling, and I love volunteering and learning new

stuff.

...