Veterinarians are critical in keeping farms safe and profitable

On this World Veterinary Day (28 April) the Australian Veterinary Association (AVA) is highlighting the important role veterinarians play on Australian farms and their valuable contribution to Australia’s economic and social well-being.

“We’re very fortunate in Australia that unlike many countries around the world, we remain free of many animal diseases such as Foot and Mouth Disease and Mad Cow Disease. If we were faced with outbreaks of this nature, it would have devastating impacts on our food security, public health, our economy and on the livelihoods of our local farmers.

“Veterinarians are on the ground working with farmers every day to enhance biosecurity and identify the animal and human health risks and provide systems to prevent, monitor, and manage diseases in their livestock,” Dr. Parker said.

Dr. Parker says that a disease outbreak in a herd or flock comes at enormous short- and long-term costs to agricultural businesses. Fortunately, veterinarians are continually seeking new ways to improve biosecurity and farming practices, to protect our favourable disease-free status and enhance farm productivity and profitability.

“Australian veterinarians lead the way in improving animal health and welfare by continually looking for new ways to prevent diseases and better manage risks to individual farms.

“The AVA’s cattle group developed and launched several programs that have been developed to help farmers with their safety, profitability and productivity plans while ensuring the welfare of animals.

“Every farm is different with a unique set of needs so it’s important for farmers to work closely with their veterinarian so that all risks specific to that farm have been considered.

“Australia must maintain a healthy and profitable agricultural sector and by limiting the impact of diseases on our livestock, we’re not only ensuring the health and welfare of Australia’s animals, but we are also ensuring farmers continue to operate resilient and robust businesses,” Dr. Parker said.

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.