April 26, 2024
Join us in recognizing World Veterinary Day! Created by the World Veterinary Association (WVA) in 2000, the 2024 theme is “Veterinarians are essential health workers.” We are so proud of all our veterinarians and the hospital teams that help them deliver compassionate care to their patients and support their clients in making decisions for their furry, feathery, or scaly friends. Their work not only impacts animal health but also human health. According to the WVA website, “The application of veterinary science contributes not only to animal health and well-being but also to human's physical, mental and social well-being.”
Veterinarians play a crucial role in controlling the transmission of diseases from animals to humans. Rabies Free Africa, a program of the Washington State University’s Paul G. Allen School for Global Health, raises awareness and builds support to eliminate human death from rabies. Our vet leaders joined the Rabies Free Africa team in Arusha, Tanzania last December. During that trip they not only vaccinated dogs, but they kicked off a partnership that will help them reach their goal of eradicating rabies by 2030. The partnership was so impactful, we are currently working towards more ways our hospitals and team members can be involved and make a difference. Learn more about our Rabies Free Africa initiative and check back for updates soon.
Within our large and diverse network of hospitals, we have locations that treat food animals and are directly involved with the quality of food we eat in the United States. For Dr. Rachel Getgen, DVM, COS at Appalachian Animal Hospital in Weaverville, NC it is a way of life, “I grew up farming, so I understood at an early age the importance of caring for the animals that provide sustenance. Here in western North Carolina, farming is integral to the culture and economy, and now hobby farming and homesteading have also become very popular. I have set a goal to educate farmers of all types to keep our food chain safe and healthy.”
Establishing a connection with clients during challenging moments in their lives is an aspect of a veterinarian's role that is not often talked about. Taking the time to consider the health of the animal as well as the health of the person burdened with making decisions is a skill honed with experience and mentorship. Dr. Ash Wells, DVM at Aspen Grove Veterinary Care in Fort Collins, CO started her vet med journey with a childhood dream of becoming a vet but was hindered by anxiety and shyness. She worked on an organic farm for six years after graduating college which helped her become more comfortable with social interactions. In her own words, “I knew I could survive the hardest parts of vet med. When I was competing to get into vet school, what drove me forward was a newfound inspiration as a ‘people person’. I have a passion for the human element. Our visits are opportunities for us to support people making hard decisions, to provide counsel, to hold space, and to make sure they don't feel alone, whatever they're going through. During an ideal visit, the communication flows easily, the vet and client gel together, and all parties leave feeling supported and enriched.” Dr. Wells, drawing from her extensive experience and passion, is scheduled to present at the upcoming AVMA Conference on "How to Offer Spectrum of Care to Your Clients," focusing on the personal aspect of veterinary medicine.
The impact of veterinarians and hospital staff on our community's health and wellbeing cannot be overstated. Their dedication to caring for animals directly affects the lives of numerous people, making a positive impact on our community as a whole. Happy World Veterinary Day!
