Disaster preparedness: Veterinarian perspective

Abstract

Livestock is owned by 70% of the world’s poor which is also the group most vulnerable to the impacts of disasters. Animals are impacted by the same disasters and emergencies as humans—natural, manmade, large, and small where veterinarians play a very important role. Disaster management is an expanding speciality within the veterinary profession. Until recently, veterinary relief had consisted of emergency aid or recovery activities, most of which are based on little scientific fact. Veterinarians started to look at how their knowledge on animal health and husbandry, and the relationship between animals and people can be used to protect not only the lives of animals but also the people affected by disaster. It is essential that a veterinary practice should have a written disaster plan comprising of preparedness measures, data on medical record and available manpower i.e. vets, para veterinary staff etc., liaison with local, state, national organizations, co-ordination with non-governmental organizations, insurance and legal issues etc. to combat the occurrence of disasters in advance. The inclusion of animal welfare measures in national and regional disaster management plans strengthens the humanitarian response, builds community resilience and protects food security. Offering training, advice, expertise and guidelines to the veterinarians helps in a big way to protect their animals during disasters. Hence, relief plans and measures should be developed for livestock at all phases of disaster for effective management.