Veterinarians: Proactive Champions in Advancing Animal Welfare

As we approach World Veterinary Day on April 26, with this year’s theme being Animal Welfare, it is an opportune moment to reflect upon the role of veterinarians in championing animal welfare issues. The Canadian Veterinary Medical Association CVMA identifies animal welfare advocacy as one of its core priorities, reflecting a widespread sentiment among Canadian veterinarians who seek their profession's proactive stance on this matter. I believe most Canadian veterinarians see themselves as champions for animal welfare and aspire for our field to be at the forefront of advancements in this area. However, are veterinarians truly leading the charge when it comes to animal welfare? Have we considered the significant contributions from animal behaviorists, physiologists, animal science researchers, e organizations, and the general public?

At the governmental level, the Canadian Food Inspection Agency CFIA has an active animal welfare division that establishes standards for the transportation and slaughter of food animals in Canada. The work conducted by federal veterinarians ensures not only a safe and stable food supply but also promotes e handling practices among producers, shippers, and slaughter workers. This area of veterinary involvement may not be highly visible, yet it plays a crucial role in mntning public trust in our food system.

Veterinarians are integral stakeholders in the development of Livestock Codes of Practice by the National Farmed Animal Care Council NFACC. These codes address care and handling practices for all major livestock species in Canada and incorporate strong animal welfare provisions. The NFACC codes serve as a guide to educate producers and set standards of care that ensure e treatment of animals under their responsibility.

The oversight of animal research conducted by universities, and veterinary teaching hospitals, and pharmaceutical companies falls on the shoulders of Institutional Animal Care and Use Committees IACUCs and ultimately the Canadian Council on Animal Care CCAC. It is through these committees that veterinary expertise influences research protocols as well as the design of facilities where animals are housed.

The role of private practitioners should not be underestimated or overlooked. Every day, veterinarians contribute to animal welfare by educating their clients during herd health visits, sick animal consultations, and wellness checkups. Discussions on proper on-farm management practices med at enhancing health while minimizing distress and disease are often central to these conversations. The importance of addressing pn control measures and preventive healthcare for both farm animals and companion pets is increasingly recognized.

Antimicrobial stewardship presents another area where veterinary leadership and strong advocacy are essential. Recognizing the vital role of prudent antimicrobial use in veterinary medicine, as well as its relevance to animal husbandry practices, it's crucial that we ensure animal welfare considerations do not take a backseat. Antimicrobials can be used for specific disease treatments and prevention; however, as veterinarians, we must advocate for adaptingof animal management to guarantee good welfare while ensuring that appropriate medications are avlable under veterinary oversight.

The Animal Welfare Committee AWC of the CVMA produces position statements on numerous issues affecting proper care and handling of animals in Canada. These positions often tackle controversial topics such as pn control during castration and dehorning in farmed animals, declawing in companion animal practice, or cosmetic surgeries. I have heard arguments that these statements do not reflect a comprehensive approach to animal welfare in Canada; however, every CVMA member has the opportunity to contribute through comments on statements posted on the CVMA website.

Comparatively looking at an international perspective, it is easy to appreciate the significant impact of large organizations like the World Veterinary Association WVA, the World Small Animal Veterinary Association WSAVA, and the World Organization for Animal Health WOAH in shaping animal welfare globally. As a representative from the CVMA, I take pride in acknowledging the leadership provided by Canadian veterinarians toward e treatment of animals under our care as well as their contributions to influential international organizations.

To summarize, while veterinarians may not be the only stakeholders involved in animal welfare concerns, we must remn visible, active, and relevant in this critical aspect of our professional responsibility. Our impact exts beyond borders and influences global policies and practices that contribute to better animal welfare worldwide.
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