Vet students train to be more than just doctors for animals

Abstract

For pet owners in suburbia, the implications of sick animals on their community are seldom a consideration because they can just take their pets to the local veterinarian. Disadvantaged communities are however not always in such a fortunate position. Their remote location and lack of finances or access to veterinary services are often inhibiting factors for proper veterinary care. Yet, animal health and care are essential components of the general health of a society. The Faculty of Veterinary Science at the University of Pretoria (UP) is committed to serving such disadvantaged communities and has focussed its attention on the Pretoria North area through its Veterinary Public Health programme, led by Dr Nenene Qekwana of the Veterinary Public Health Section of the Department of Paraclinical Sciences.