BY: SAMANTHA BARTLETT, DVM

World Veterinary Day was started in 2000 to provide a day acknowledge the importance of the veterinary profession. The celebration takes place on the last Saturday of April every year. Each year, a theme is established by the World Veterinary Association (WVA) and the World Organization of Animal Health (OIE). This year’s World Veterinary Day focused on the role played by the veterinary profession to develop a more sustainable future. This theme is primarily centered on food security and safety and the impact on supporting the livelihood of the world population as it continues to grow.

The roles of veterinary professionals in food security and safety are wide and include education for farmers on sustainable practices and food animal safety and management. Veterinarians also serve in roles in public health, research, and food inspection.  In keeping with these roles, the AVMA recently hosted the Global Food Security Summit to help promote awareness and recommendations for increasing global food security.

On a local level, veterinarians partner with farmers and agricultural agencies to implement pest management strategies and herd management programs. Protection of the environment through education of clients on proper disposal of medications and control of parasites is often performed by companion animal veterinarians.

As part of the World Veterinary Day celebration, the WVA and OIE developed the World Veterinary Day Award to the organization with the most successful contributions to the profession in keeping with the theme of the year. Contributions to this year’s them will enhance sustainable development goals of the United Nations. These goals are set to decrease poverty, achieve zero hunger, promote human health and economic growth. The award recipient(s) will be announced in June.