World Veterinary Day: History, Celebration, Theme, FAQs

The World Veterinary Day is commemmorated to honour the veterinary profession every year on the final Saturday in April.

The 2024 World Veterinary Day is being held on 27th April 2024 and celebrates veterinarians competencies which must be regarded as an essential and integral part of health at large. The application of veterinary science contributes not only to animal health and well-being but also to humans physical, mental and social well-being.

This dimension of the veterinarians’ work often remains invisible to the society but protecting and improving the health of people and their communities is an essential part of the vet profession.

What is World Veterinary Day?

Animals have held a special place in human society for millennia. From loyal companions to vital sources of food and livelihood, their well-being is intricately linked to our own. Behind the scenes, ensuring animal health and welfare stands a dedicated group of professionals: veterinarians.  Every year, on the last Saturday of April, we celebrate their remarkable contributions, and this day is called World Veterinary Day.

History: World Veterinary Day

Dedicated to celebrating veterinarians’ invaluable contributions, boasts a rich history rooted in global collaboration. Let’s delve into the origins of this important event, exploring the fascinating history of World Veterinary Day.

The year 2000 ushered in a new era of recognition for veterinarians worldwide. The World Veterinary Association (WVA), a global organisation representing veterinarians worldwide, established World Veterinary Day. This decision recognised the critical role veterinarians play in safeguarding animal health and its profound impact on human well-being.

The chosen date for World Veterinary Day holds a special significance. It coincides with the anniversary of the founding of the World Organisation for Animal Health (OIE). This joint commemoration beautifully underscores the collaborative efforts of veterinarians across the globe in protecting both animal and public health.

The WVA strategically established a yearly theme for World Veterinary Day. This theme serves to highlight a specific facet of veterinary medicine, raising awareness about its importance and showcasing the diverse roles veterinarians play. For example, the World Veterinary Day theme for 2024, “Veterinarians are essential health workers,” emphasises their crucial role not only in animal health but also in preventing zoonotic diseases – illnesses transferable between animals and humans.

However, World Veterinary Day history extends beyond its establishment in 2000. Prior to this date, the seeds were sown through the dedication of veterinarians worldwide. In 1863, Professor John Gamgee, from the Veterinary College of Edinburgh, played a pivotal role in establishing the first-ever International Veterinary Congress meeting held in Hamburg, Germany. This marked a significant step towards fostering global collaboration among veterinarians. Later, in 1959, the World Veterinary Association itself was founded, further solidifying the unity and shared goals of the veterinary profession.

Understanding the day history is a testament to the ongoing commitment of veterinarians to animal health and welfare. It’s a day that not only celebrates their past achievements but also looks towards the future, inspiring young minds to consider this rewarding career path and contribute to a world where all animals receive the care they deserve.

Now that we know why World Veterinary Day is celebrated and about the history of World Veterinary Day, let’s learn more about the World Veterinary Day theme, and how the day is celebrated and understand what are some frequently asked questions about the day.

When is World Veterinary Day, and why is it celebrated?

The day marks a special day on the calendar, falling annually on the last Saturday of April. In 2024, it will be celebrated on April 27th. The reasons why World Veterinary Day is celebrated are multi-faceted and highlight the profound impact veterinarians have on the well-being of animals and humans.

One of the most crucial purposes of World Veterinary Day is to raise awareness. Veterinarians play a critical role in safeguarding animal health, which directly translates to human well-being. They are not only on the front lines treating sick and injured animals but also play a vital role in preventing disease outbreaks that could affect both animal and human populations. Through meticulous monitoring of livestock health and implementing preventative measures, veterinarians ensure the safety of our food supply, safeguarding us from foodborne illnesses.

This day also serves as a beautiful opportunity to express our deepest gratitude to veterinarians. Often, they go above and beyond the call of duty, forming profound bonds with the animals under their care. Their dedication shines through in the long hours they work, the complex cases they manage, and the unwavering compassion and support they offer to animal owners during difficult times. This day allows us to acknowledge their selfless service and the genuine care they bring to their profession.

Looking to the future, World Veterinary Day aims to promote the field of veterinary medicine as a rewarding career path for young people. This profession offers a unique blend of scientific knowledge, unwavering compassion, and exceptional problem-solving skills. World Veterinary Day sheds light on the multifaceted world of veterinary medicine. From treating beloved pets to conducting groundbreaking research and safeguarding public health, the day serves as an inspiration for future generations to consider this noble profession.

Finally, World Veterinary Day brings much-needed attention to the importance of animal health and well-being, ultimately fostering a more compassionate world for all creatures. Veterinarians champion animal welfare by advocating for responsible pet ownership, ethical farming practices, and the humane treatment of all creatures.

By understanding the significance of World Veterinary Day, we can actively participate in celebrating these dedicated professionals and contribute to a future where animal health is prioritised, ensuring the well-being of all living creatures.

India celebrations:

In order to recognize and celebrate the important roles of Veterinarians in animal and human health and welfare, food security, food quality and safety, ecology, drugs and pharmaceuticals development, biomedical research, rural development, as educators, trainers, and policymakers, economic development through livestock production and management and in wildlife conservation, and the protection of the environment and biodiversity, safeguarding our country by preventing the threat of bioterrorism, the Department of Animal Husbandry and Dairying in close collaboration with Veterinary Council of India organises events to celebrate World Veterinary Day – 2024.

Stakeholders of Veterinary profession across the nation participate in the events.

Key institutions involved in Veterinary sciences in India

• Department of Animal Husbandry and Dairying : The Department of Animal Husbandry and Dairying is one of the Departments under the Ministry of Fisheries, Animal Husbandry and Dairying. The Department is responsible for matters relating to livestock production, preservation, protection & improvement of stocks, dairy development, matters relating to Delhi Milk Scheme, National Dairy Development Board, Animal Welfare Board of India and Committee for Control and Supervision of Experiments on Animals (CCSEA). For more details, visit https://dahd.nic.in/
• Veterinary Council of India : Veterinary Council of India (VCl) is a statutory body established under the provision of Indian Veterinary Council Act, 1984. Veterinary Council of India is responsible for regulating veterinary practices as well as for maintaining uniform standards of veterinary education through Minimum Standard of Veterinary Education Regulations in all veterinary institutes across the country. To meet the shortage of trained veterinary manpower in the country, the number of recognized Veterinary Colleges has now increased to 55. For more details, visit https://vci.dahd.gov.in/

Theme:

World Veterinary Day is an annual celebration that acknowledges the vital role of veterinarians worldwide. Each year, a specific theme is chosen to highlight various aspects of veterinary medicine and its impact on society. For example, the theme for 2024, “Veterinarians are essential health workers,” emphasises the critical role veterinarians play not only in animal health but also in preventing zoonotic diseases – illnesses transferable between animals and humans.

This theme underscores the significance of veterinarians as essential contributors to public health. Their expertise spans various domains, including clinical care, disease surveillance, food safety, and environmental health. The health of animals and humans is intricately linked. By ensuring animal health, veterinarians play a vital role in safeguarding public health and well-being.

Amidst challenges such as the COVID-19 pandemic, the importance of veterinarians as essential health workers has become increasingly evident. Their efforts in disease detection, prevention, and control are essential for mitigating health risks and preserving ecological balance.

As we observe World Veterinary Day, it’s essential to recognise and appreciate the dedication of veterinarians worldwide. Their commitment to promoting health and preventing disease transmission highlights the interconnectedness of human, animal, and environmental health, underscoring the theme of this annual celebration.

• 2024: Veterinarians are essential health workers
• 2023: Promoting Diversity, Equity, and Inclusiveness in the Veterinary Profession

FAQs:

Do you know why World Veterinary Day is celebrated?

World Veterinary Day is celebrated annually to recognise the invaluable contributions of veterinarians to animal health, welfare, and public health. It’s a day to appreciate their dedication, expertise, and the vital role they play in caring for creatures great and small.

When is World Veterinary Day?

It is celebrated on the last Saturday of April each year.

What is World Veterinary Day?

World Veterinary Day is a global celebration honouring the veterinary profession. It’s a day to raise awareness about the diverse and critical roles veterinarians play in society.

When is the World Veterinary Day date in 2024?

In 2024, the World Veterinary Day date is April 27th. It is a day dedicated to honouring the tireless efforts of veterinarians and raising awareness about the importance of their work.