Celebrating our dedicated veterinarians on World Veterinary Day

Amidst the unfolding global COVID-19 pandemic, our amazing and dedicated veterinarians have continued their essential work leading animal health and welfare, providing care and compassion for animals and the wider community.

World Veterinary Day 2021 is a tribute to this collective effort, as we celebrate the tireless work of veterinarians, who despite the initial shock of the pandemic to our community, have quickly adapted their daily work activities to incorporate the added challenges of social distancing requirements, remote-consultations and increased use of personal protective equipment.

The pandemic has also seen a surge in demand for veterinary care, as people spent more time at home with their pets, or took on new pets. Coupled with travel restrictions contributing to fewer veterinarians being available to work, veterinarians in practice have been busier than ever, and the strain on veterinary mental health and well-being is evident.

Already facing a shortage of veterinarians prior to the pandemic, routine everyday procedures in veterinary practices during this unusual time took much longer due to the intricacies of providing socially distanced care when treating animals.

In some practices, veterinary staff split into teams to ensure the availability of veterinary care should a team member test positive or need to self-isolate. As a result, veterinary staff have been working longer hours, with fewer hands on deck.  

Recognising the interconnection between people, animals, plants, and our shared environment, the pandemic has also highlighted the important work of veterinarians in One Health, as they contribute as part of global collaborative and multidisciplinary efforts to achieve optimal health outcomes for both animals and people.

Despite the challenges of the COVID-19 pandemic, veterinarians have selflessly put the care of their patients first in difficult circumstances to benefit the health and welfare of animals and society. On World Veterinary Day 2021, we sincerely acknowledge and celebrate our incredible veterinarians - thank you.

For further information and requests for interviews contact the AVA media office on 0439 628 898 or media@ava.com.au.

The Australian Veterinary Association (AVA) is the only national association representing veterinarians in Australia. Founded in 1921, the AVA today represents 9000 members working in all areas of animal science, health, and welfare.