Animal Health Takes A Team
“Veterinarians are typically looked at by the public as caretakers of their beloved pets, but the reality is, we are so much more than that,” Dr. de Jong.
Animals have always played a positive and encouraging role in our lives. The interactions between humans and animals have evolved over the years. In recent times many businesses have emerged that provide grooming and animal care services. Of course, such services are separate and apart from the essential service the veterinarian provides. Animals do get sick and as such they will require specialized care. Owning an animal is a long term commitment both in terms of financial resources as well as your time.
World Veterinary Day is celebrated annually on the last Saturday of April to honour the indispensable role veterinarians play in protecting animal health, public health, and the environment. Established by the World Veterinary Association, this day recognizes the dedication of veterinary professionals in improving animal welfare, ensuring food safety, and advancing scientific research. It also promotes awareness of key veterinary issues such as zoonotic disease control, One Health initiatives, and the importance of sustainable practices in animal care. The day fosters global appreciation for veterinarians' contributions to society and their critical role in safeguarding both animal and human health.
This year’s theme: ‘Animal Health Takes a Team’, reflects the dynamic nature of veterinary services, which require cooperation and collaboration across various fields of expertise to address the diverse challenges in animal health and care.
Veterinarians, veterinary technicians, veterinary paraprofessionals, clinic and hospital managers, among many others are critical elements of animal health services. “This year’s theme focuses on the importance of teamwork in veterinary care, acknowledging that effective veterinary services often rely on the collective efforts of a range of professionals, including veterinary nurses, technicians, researchers, and other allied health professionals. A special acknowledgement of gratitude must be made regarding the Jamaica Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (JSPCA). The JSPCA has been working in Jamaica for more than a hundred years. The JSPCA was founded in 1903. Its main mission is to promote the compassionate treatment of animals through education, advocacy, veterinary care and the placing of unwanted animals in loving homes. We strive towards improvement of the conditions of animals in the pounds and abattoirs, as well as the racetrack & riding establishments in Jamaica. The veterinarians who work at the JSPCA are caring and hospitable.
History of World Veterinary Day.
Professor John Gamgee from the Veterinary College of Edinburgh first established the World Veterinary Congress in 1863. The World Veterinary Association focused on the mission of animal health and welfare in 1959. World Veterinary Day was first observed in 2000 by the World Veterinary Association to promote the lifesaving work performed by veterinarians around the world. It is an informal holiday for pet owners to enjoy the day with their pets by attending to and having fun with them. This day helps to improve the living circumstances of animals particularly those who are not housed and are left on their own in public places.
Animal lovers/owners are very much aware that it takes a team effort to provide optimal animal care and animal health. Veterinarians are those who help protect and safeguard those who cannot speak for themselves, so be sure to remember how much they mean to the life of a pet!
The application of veterinary science contributes not only to animal health and well-being but also to human’s physical, mental and social happiness.
Enjoy the day with your pets. Happy World Veterinary Day!
In the words of Tom Meyer, the veterinarian’s oath includes the promise ‘to protect animal health and welfare, prevent and relieve animal suffering. It is a noble profession that demands a selfless commitment to serving the needs of animals.
Wayne Campbell is an educator and social commentator with an interest in development policies as they affect culture and or gender issues.
waykam@yahoo.com
@WayneCamo
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