Vetnews | Augustus 2025 4 « BACK TO CONTENTS A couple of strong quotes by a couple of strong women. August is the month when the resilience, strength, leadership and character of women are celebrated in South Africa. When collecting material for this month’s magazine, I focused more on the international female veterinarians. Only last week, the World Veterinary Association congress was held together with the American Veterinary Association’s congress. Several awards went to women in the Veterinary sphere. A few are included. While the vets were congregating in Washington, D.C., a terrible disaster happened in Kerr County, Texas. An unexpected flash flood hit the Texas Hill Country on the 4th of July. Ripping not only houses off their foundations, but also swept through a summer camp and the kids and mentors of one entire cabin were washed away. The bodies of all but 1 have been found at the time of me writing this. Those girls were 8,9,10 year olds. On the first day, the rescue dogs were deployed and with that also the veterinary support teams. On consecutive days, cadaver dogs were deployed. Mules and horses were also used to reach otherwise unreachable areas and to clear debris where possible. The role of the veterinarian was central and paramount to the well-being of these animals. Direct Animal Care: Veterinarians, including those from the Texas A&M Veterinary Emergency Team (VET), provided medical care for animals affected by the floods. This included examining animals, treating wounds, performing surgeries, administering vaccinations, and operating medical equipment. Disaster Relief Support: VETs worked alongside other emergency responders and organisations to provide veterinary support in flooded disaster areas. They helped stabilise animals for transport to full-service clinics and provided on-site care for minor injuries. Coordination and Planning: The Texas Animal Health Commission (TAHC) highlighted the need for temporary shelter, feeding, and medical care for displaced animals in disaster situations. Veterinarians also played a key role in coordinating with local and state governments and nonprofits for animal-related disaster response. Search and Rescue Support: Veterinarians provided care for search and rescue dogs, ensuring they were healthy and fit to continue their vital work. This included treating injuries and providing preventative care. Advocating for Veterinary Resources: Efforts were made to establish a national network of Veterinary Emergency Teams to better prepare for and respond to future disasters, including those in Texas. Again, a confirmation of how important a role Vets play in natural disasters. Keep an eye out in future Vetnewses for an interview with Dr Cindy Otto. She was one of the veterinarians on Ground Zero after the 9/11 disaster. May the female veterinarian be valued for her contribution and respected for the role she not only plays as a professional in the practice or the field, but also in raising the future generation. Andriette v From the Editor Editor’s notes / Redakteurs notas
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