Veterinarians and Animal Welfare

 

Animal welfare is a crucial aspect of veterinary medicine and we, as veterinarians, have a significant role in ensuring the well-being of our patients, as well as promoting animal welfare. We not only diagnose and treat illnesses but also contribute significantly to preventive care and education. 

The bond between humans and animals has evolved over centuries, and we serve (or are supposed to serve) as advocates for the health and happiness of our furry, feathered, and finned companions. Sadly, this is not the case in our Father land, Nigeria.

Animal welfare advocacy is an odd responsibility to veterinarians in Nigeria, which may be due to our culture or the inconsequentiality associated with animals in our country. Many treat animals as beasts without feelings or emotions, but we as vets should know best that these animals possess everything that makes us humans. Our anatomy and physiology is very similar which means they feel pain, fear, excitement, depression, etc. just as we do.

One of our primary responsibilities is to provide preventive care for animals. This includes regular check-ups, vaccinations, and nutritional guidance, which are all crucial for maintaining the overall health of animals. And to be honest, we exercise due diligence in this aspect, well as long as money is involved. 

Yes, we work with pet owners to educate them on responsible pet ownership, such as providing proper nutrition, exercise, and hygiene practices. This preventive approach not only enhances the quality of life for individual animals but also contributes to broader community welfare by reducing the spread of diseases (public health).

Aside from taking care of domestic pets, we also play a crucial role in ensuring the welfare of livestock. We oversee and manage the health of farm animals, ensuring that ethical farming practices are followed and promptly addressing any health concerns. This aspect of our work not only supports the humane treatment of animals (emphasis on humane) but also contributes to the production of safe and healthy food for human consumption.

In addition to individual care, it is our responsibility to be involved in advocacy and public education initiatives to raise awareness on issues such as animal cruelty, overpopulation, and the significance of spaying and neutering. This helps to promote a sense of public responsibility and empathy towards animals.

In conclusion, the work of veterinarians is essential in ensuring the welfare of animals is prioritized and we must take this work as serious as we take our health and welfare. We need to educate the country on the importance of these animals and why their welfare should be a priority. Hopefully, this article gets to stir up the animal welfare advocate potential in you so we can create a heard voice for our patients.

Written by Adedayo Imisioluwa.