By Prof. (R) Dr. Ghulam Muhammad, Muzafar Ghafoor, Mughees Aizaz Alvi, Muhammad Ijaz Saleem Department of Clinical Medicine and Surgery, University of Agriculture, Faisalabad, Pakistan
The veterinary profession is fundamentally linked to the welfare of animals.
Defining the job of veterinarians, Stone says they possess a unique blend of knowledge, empathy, and skill, enabling them to alleviate suffering, diagnose illnesses in non-verbal creatures, and employ medical science for the betterment of animals.
W.L. Williams, D.V.M. (1888), says that veterinarians must be humanitarians, actively working to reduce and prevent animal suffering.
As per his definition, “A veterinarian is someone who, with gentle hands and soothing words, calms the fears of a stricken animal. They diagnose the sickness of creatures that cannot speak, using their knowledge, sympathy, and understanding to identify and treat ailments. With the aid of medical science, veterinarians brighten eyes, reduce fever, energize the pulse, and build resistance against disease in animals, achieving a goal that few can attain.”
Every veterinarian swears an oath that underscores their dedication to animal welfare. Adopted by the American Veterinary Medical Association in 1969, the Veterinarian’s Oath commits practitioners to use their scientific knowledge for the benefit of society, protect animal health, alleviate suffering, and uphold veterinary ethics. This oath is not merely a formality but a profound pledge to continuously improve professional knowledge and competence.
Veterinarians play a vital role in promoting animal welfare through various means. They provide compassionate care by treating their patients with tenderness and altruism.
In terms of disease management, veterinarians are essential in the prevention, control, and eradication of animal diseases, which are significant sources of suffering.
Ethically, they strive to avoid euthanizing treatable animals and advocate for the repeal of outdated laws that do not align with modern standards of animal welfare.
Collaboratively, veterinarians work with behavioral scientists, environmental experts, and other stakeholders to enhance the overall welfare of animals. They ensure pain management by using anesthesia or pain relief methods during procedures like castration or dehorning to minimize suffering.
Furthermore, veterinarians engage in public advocacy by actively discouraging animal fights, unnecessary hunting, and abuse while offering their services during disasters. They participate in educational outreach to inform the public about animal care and welfare and support the development of humane ordinances and handling facilities.
Veterinarians can achieve greater impacts by collaborating and working together. They can engage with local humane societies and animal welfare groups to address pressing issues and improve practices by supporting humane organizations.
Developing and promoting educational programs about animal welfare through various media platforms further extends their reach and influence. Fostering a sense of responsibility and compassion for animals among young people through school programs and community projects helps instill these values in the next generation.
The responsibility for animal welfare rests heavily on veterinarians. By demonstrating a commitment to compassionate care and ethical practices, veterinarians can lead the charge in ensuring animals receive the respect and care they deserve. This commitment extends beyond monetary gains; it is a profound dedication to the well-being of animals and an obligation to educate and advocate for their rights.
