28 April

World Veterinary Day was initiated by the World Veterinary Association (WVA) in 2000 to be celebrated annually on the last Saturday of April.

On this occasion the veterinary profession highlights its various contributions to the health of both animals and humans, underlining the vital role of veterinarians in also ensuring animal welfare, food safety, food security, safe world trade in animals and animal products as well as protecting public health.

Most people know veterinarians as the “animal doctors” for our pets, livestock, horses, and a variety of more diverse animals such as zoo animals and exotic pets such as birds, reptiles, and small mammals.

However, veterinarians also are involved in public health to improve the health and welfare of animals, people and the environment. Veterinarians

• investigate disease outbreaks that can be transmitted from animals to humans, called zoonotic diseases, like rabies, bird flu and Ebola.
• do research to develop vaccines and cures for diseases in animals that can also help cure and prevent diseases in people.
• develop policies and promote laws to improve the care and welfare of animals around the world.