VMD 511: Animal Welfare, Ethics and Jurisprudence (2+0)

DUTIES OF VETERINARIANS TO THE PUBLIC

• Veterinarian as citizen
  • Veterinarians as good citizens possessed of special training, shall advise concerning the health and husbandry of the animals, in the localities wherein they dwell. They shall play their part in enforcing the laws of the community (not favouring any communal overtones or prejudices) and in substantiating the institutions that advance the interests of humanity. They shall cooperate with the authorities in the humanity.
  • They shall cooperate with the authorities in the observance and enforcement of sanitary laws and the laws relating to drugs poisons and pharmacy, made for the protection of health.
• Public health
  • A veterinarian engaged in public health work shall enlighten the public concerning quarantine regulations and measures for the prevention of epizootic, zoonotic and food borne diseases and intoxications and communicable diseases. At all times, the veterinarians shall notify the respective authorities of every case of communicable diseases under their care in accordance with the laws, rules and regulations of the authorities.
  • When an epidemic prevails, the veterinarian shall continue his/her labour without regard to the risk to his/her own health. He/She shall endeavour to ensure hygienic handling of animal products and wastes thereof and educate the public of food-borne diseases and intoxications.
• Livestock production and technology
  • A veterinarian shall strive for the betterment of animal production through timely advice / propaganda on scientific management involving economically viable and hygienic housing, adoption of scientific breeding schedule, disease prevention of routines, reproductive health monitoring, hygienic and systematic care before, at and following parturition, care of new born, hygienic collection of farm products and proper disposal of animal products and wastes thereof.
  • He/She should strive to educate the public and Para veterinary staff personnel regarding timely insemination and aseptic handling during A.I. and discourage the unscientific unhygienic inseminations.