Female Veterinarians Shaping Innovations In Animal Research And Healthcare
- Sridevi
Department of Veterinary Anatomy, Madras Veterinary College, Chennai – 600 007.
Introduction
The vital contributions of female veterinarians in shaping innovations within animal research and healthcare are paramount. Despite historical underrepresentation, their perseverance, expertise, and groundbreaking contributions have transformed the landscape of animal welfare and scientific advancements. As a matter of good concern, people are starting to consider veterinary as a titled profession serving the necessities of the farming community as well as the daily livestock breeders. Numerous girl students from mainly Karnataka, Puducherry and Tamil Nadu go for Veterinary Science as their first option for graduation. Lady veterinarians are given more prevalence in developing countries like India, Sri lanka, Singapore, Malaysia and Thailand. Nowadays, more lady veterinarians and veterinary scientists are hired by re-search and development centres all over the world. Different fields of study and research under veterinary science include veterinary physiology, anatomy, biotechnology, preventive medicine, clinical medicine, dairy science, meat technology, bio- chemistry, livestock production management, molecular biology, anatomy, microbiology, animal breeding, genetics, parasitology, animal reproduction, animal nutrition, veterinary surgery, and pharmacology. Apart from this, it also includes laboratory animal production, zoo animal medicine, wildlife science, animal welfare, conservation, entrepreneurship, food safety, food technology, marketing, sustainability issues, animal welfare, value addition, trade-related issues, veterinary nursing, organic farming and residue monitoring. This section is firmly interlinked with community health and authority of various zoonotic diseases. There are huge probabilities for interdisciplinary research. Animal husbandry is also regarded as an important prospect of this field. Start-ups and entrepreneurship. Several states are executing round -the -clock services including consultative services in the country. A lot of super speciality veterinary clinics are coming into action and are emerging as sectors of private practicing.
The lady veterinarians have shown the way to the youngsters and at present there has been an increase in the number of girls preferring this profession and it is estimated that there are more than 4500 lady vets in the country registered with different State Veterinary councils of India.
History
Female veterinarians have made remarkable contributions to animal research, healthcare, and the broader field of veterinary medicine. the first ever woman who entered veterinary profession was Ms. Parisienne and subsequently Ms Pole Stephanie Kruszewska followed her foot step in Zurich university of Europe in the same year. The women first started in the countries of Switzerland, Great Britain, France and Germany. The France, Austria, Italy, Denmark, Sweden, Germany, England and Spain trace the establishment of first veterinary colleges during the late eighteenth. the first veterinary college in the world was established in Lyon, France in 1762, it emerged as a nursery of veterinary sciences. At the end of the 19th century, the 2nd veterinary college in the world was established in Alfort. The women veterinarians In 1889- Stephania Kruszevska in Switzerland and V. Dobrovoljskaja, in Zurich. 1893-La Clinica Veterinaria (Italiana). In 1900, in Great Britain, Aileen (Aleen) Cust (1868-1937) was the first female veterinarian to graduate from New Veterinary College in Edinburgh announced the same.
In 1903, the first woman graduated from a veterinary college.
Between 1903 and 1930, only two other women graduated from veterinary colleges with both pursuing a non-traditional career path at the time – small animal practice
In 1949, the first African-American women graduated with DVMs. Since then, the growth of women in veterinary medicine was slow until 1963 when the Equal Pay Act was passed. This outlawed pay discrimination on the basis of gender.
This is thought to be the initial catalyst of women in veterinary medicine. However, by 1970, only 7.8% of Doctor of Veterinary Medicine (DVM) graduates were women.
The second catalyst for women in veterinary medicine was the Higher Education Act of 1973 which abolished gender discrimination at federally funded institutions
- Sakkubhai Ramachandran – was the first woman veterinarian of India, graduated in 1952 at Madras Veterinary College at Vepery, Chennai and finally retired in the year 1971 as Scientist from IVRI, Bangalore.
- While the first woman veterinarians – Dr P. Sakku Bai and Dr N. Kalyani, passed out in 1952 from the Madras Veterinary College, Dr Pushpa Ranaparkhe graduated in veterinary sciences in 1962.
- Dr Ranaparkhe established the All-India Association of Lady Veterinarians (AILV) and set up local chapters in all the states.
- Dr P. P. Nilufer became the first lady veterinarian from the tropical union territory of Lakshadweep and took charge as the first woman veterinary surgeon in Kavaratti in Lakshadweep in 2017
- Ranaparkhe formed the All-India Association of Lady Veterinarians (AILV) with local branches in all states.
- Pragati Panda, a former professor at Odisha University of Agriculture and Technology in Bhubaneswar, was Odisha’s first female veterinarian
- Prema was the first woman to graduate from Bangalore Veterinary College
- Dr. Stacy Lynn Anderson: Lincoln Memorial University College of Veterinary Medicine, the veterinary college’s dean.
· Mia Su Cary, DVM : Ceo Of Cary Consulting And Pride Veterinary Medical Community
· JILL CLARK, DVM: Founder Of And Chief Visionary Officer At Ignite Veterinary Solutions
· LINDA FINEMAN, DVM, DACVIM (Oncology):CEO Of The American College Of Veterinary Internal Medicine
· HEATHER N. FOWLER, VMD, ACVPM, Ph.D., MPH, PMP:Director Of Producer And Public Health At The National Pork Board
· MARY GARDNER, DVM: Co-Founder Of Lap Of Love Veterinary Hospice And An Author
· ELEANOR M. GREEN, DVM, DACVIM, DABVP: Veterinary Consultant And Senior Adviser And Consultant At Animal Policy Group
· OYA GRIFFIN, DVM, DACVD: TV Personality And A Lexington, Kentucky, Veterinary Dermatologist
· JENNIFER HAWKINS, DVM: Executive Director Of The Southern California Veterinary Medical Association
· CARRIE JURNEY, DVM, DACVIM (Neurology): Veterinary Neurology And A Founding Board Member
· CHARLOTTE LACROIX, DVM, JD: CEO Of Veterinary Business Advisors Inc
· NADINE LAMBERSKI, DVM, DACZM, DECZM: Chief Conservation And Wildlife Health Officer At The San Diego Zoo Wildlife Alliance
Female veterinarians have made significant contributions, driving breakthroughs and advancements across various fields within veterinary medicine. Here are some notable examples
- Vaccine Development and Infectious Disease Control: Dr. Sarah Gilbert: A veterinarian and professor at the University of Oxford, Dr. Gilbert played a pivotal role in developing the Oxford-AstraZeneca COVID-19 vaccine. Her expertise in vaccinology and immunology significantly contributed to the rapid development of this vaccine.
- Advancements in Veterinary Surgery: Dr. Susan Matthew: Known for her innovative approaches in veterinary surgery, Dr. Matthew pioneered minimally invasive surgical techniques in animals, allowing for faster recovery times and reduced complications.
- Behavioral Studies and Animal Welfare: Dr. Patricia McConnell: A certified applied animal behaviorist, Dr. McConnell’s research and advocacy in animal behavior and welfare have shaped our understanding of animal cognition and emotions, influencing animal training methods and enhancing animal well-being.
- Genetics and Breed Health: Dr. Jerold Bell: Dr. Bell’s contributions to veterinary genetics have been substantial, particularly in identifying and addressing genetic health issues in various dog breeds. Her work has led to improved breeding practices and the reduction of inherited diseases in dogs.
- One Health Initiatives: Dr. Laura Kahn: As a veterinarian and public health advocate, Dr. Kahn promotes the One Health approach, emphasizing the interconnectedness of human, animal, and environmental health. Her work highlights the importance of collaborative efforts to address global health challenges.
- Wildlife Conservation and Rehabilitation: Dr. Kirsty McLeod: Known for her work in wildlife conservation and rehabilitation, Dr. McLeod’s research on endangered species has contributed significantly to conservation efforts and the understanding of wildlife health.
- Telemedicine and Remote Consultations: Dr. Cindy Otto has been instrumental in leveraging telemedicine to provide veterinary care remotely. Her initiatives have facilitated access to expert advice and consultations, particularly in underserved areas or during emergencies.
- Precision Medicine and Personalized Treatments: Dr. Barbara Natterson-Horowitz: Known for her work in comparative medicine, Dr. Natterson-Horowitz advocates for the application of human medical advancements to animals. Her research explores personalized medicine approaches, adapting treatments from human medicine to benefit animal patients.
- Nutritional Therapies and Dietary Innovations: Dr. Linder’s research focuses on animal nutrition and obesity management. Her work emphasizes tailored dietary plans and innovative nutritional therapies to address various health conditions in companion animals.
- Regenerative Medicine and Stem Cell Therapy: Dr. Laurie Goodrich contributions in regenerative medicine and stem cell therapy for animals have shown promising results in treating musculoskeletal injuries and degenerative conditions in pets and working animals.
- Integrative Veterinary Medicine and Holistic Care: Dr. Nancy Scanlan A pioneer in integrative veterinary medicine, Dr. Scanlan advocates for a holistic approach, combining conventional and complementary therapies. Her work promotes overall wellness and improved quality of life for animals.
- AI and Diagnostic Advancements: Dr. Tanya Grantham expertise in artificial intelligence (AI) applications in veterinary diagnostics has led to the development of innovative tools for early disease detection and more precise treatment plans.
- Veterinary Pharmacology and Drug Development: Dr. Dawn Boothe A pioneer in veterinary pharmacology, Dr. Boothe’s research has led to advancements in drug therapies for animals. Her work includes developing safer and more effective medications for companion animals, especially in the areas of pain management and antibiotic stewardship.
- Veterinary Dentistry and Oral Health: Dr. Elizabeth Boylan contributions to veterinary dentistry have been groundbreaking. Her research focuses on improving oral health in animals, developing new dental techniques, and raising awareness about the importance of oral hygiene in pets’ overall well-being.
- Zoonotic Disease Research and Public Health: Dr. Tracey McNamara work in investigating zoonotic diseases and their impact on both animal and human health has been influential. Her research on the West Nile Virus in animals highlighted the significance of vigilance in monitoring diseases that can cross species barriers.
- Animal Reproductive Health and Fertility: Dr. Michelle LeBlanc research in reproductive health has contributed to advancements in animal fertility and assisted reproductive techniques. Her work includes innovative methods to improve conception rates and manage reproductive disorders in livestock and companion animals.
- Veterinary Oncology and Cancer Treatments: Dr. Barbara Kitchell contributions to veterinary oncology have been transformative. Her research focuses on developing novel cancer treatments for animals, including chemotherapy protocols and targeted therapies to improve the quality of life and prognosis for pets with cancer.
· Animal Behavior and Enrichment Practices: Dr. Sophia Yin work in animal behavior and enrichment practices emphasized positive reinforcement training methods for companion animals. Her contributions to behavior modification techniques have greatly enhanced the understanding of animal behavior and improved training methods for pet owners and professionals
Female veterinarians play an indispensable role in advancing animal research and healthcare, contributing significantly to the progression and transformation of the field.
1. Diverse Perspectives: Inclusivity in Innovation: Their diverse perspectives and experiences bring unique insights to the table, fostering innovation and creativity in addressing complex animal health challenges.
2. Comprehensive Care Approach: Holistic Animal Care: Female veterinarians often champion a holistic approach to animal care, integrating traditional veterinary medicine with innovative techniques and compassionate practices.
3. Advocacy and Education: Community Engagement: They actively engage in advocacy and education, promoting animal welfare, responsible pet ownership, and public health awareness.
4. Research and Breakthroughs: Groundbreaking Discoveries: Through their research prowess and dedication, female veterinarians have spearheaded groundbreaking discoveries, revolutionizing treatments and disease management in animals.
5. Leadership and Mentorship: Inspiring Future Generations: Their leadership roles and mentorship of aspiring veterinarians pave the way for future innovators, encouraging diversity and excellence in the field
Challenges Faced by Female Veterinarians:
1. Work-Life Balance: Balancing demanding work schedules, especially in clinical practice or research, with personal and family life can be challenging, leading to burnout and stress.
2. Gender Bias and Stereotypes: Female veterinarians may encounter gender-based biases or stereotypes, impacting career advancement, leadership opportunities, and pay parity.
3. Career Advancement and Leadership Roles: Limited representation in higher academic and leadership positions within veterinary organizations or academia due to various factors, including implicit bias.
4. Financial Constraints: The cost of veterinary education and potential lower earning potential compared to other professions can lead to financial strain, affecting career choices and professional satisfaction.
Opportunities for Advancements and Overcoming Barriers:
1. Advocacy and Support Networks: Creating supportive environments through mentorship programs, networking opportunities, and advocacy groups can empower female veterinarians and address gender-related challenges.
2. Promoting Diversity and Inclusivity: Encouraging diversity and inclusivity in the profession by fostering a supportive culture and providing equal opportunities for career advancement and leadership roles.
3. Flexible Work Models: Implementing flexible work arrangements or part-time opportunities in clinical practice, academia, or research can aid in achieving a better work-life balance.
4. Professional Development and Education: Providing resources for continued professional development, leadership training, and mentorship programs specifically tailored for female veterinarians can enhance their skills and confidence.
5. Advocating for Gender Equity: Advocating for policies that promote gender equity, such as pay transparency, equal opportunities for advancement, and family-friendly workplace policies, can help overcome gender-related barriers.
6. Research and Visibility: Encouraging and highlighting research on gender disparities and challenges faced by female veterinarians can bring visibility to these issues, prompting necessary changes in the profession.
Collaborations between female veterinarians and other experts play a crucial role in advancing research, improving animal health, and addressing complex challenges. Here’s why these collaborations are important and some success stories showcasing their impact:
Importance of Collaborations:
1. Interdisciplinary Expertise: Collaborations bring together diverse skill sets, perspectives, and expertise, enabling a more comprehensive approach to problem-solving and innovation.
2. Synergy in Research: Partnering with professionals from various fields, such as biologists, ecologists, public health experts, and engineers, fosters innovative research approaches, leading to breakthroughs in understanding diseases, treatments, and conservation efforts.
3. Translating Research to Practice: Collaborations facilitate the translation of research findings into practical applications, improving animal care, treatment protocols, and conservation strategies.
4. Networking and Knowledge Sharing: Collaborative efforts create networking opportunities, allowing for the exchange of knowledge, best practices, and the development of new methodologies or technologies.
Conclusion: In shaping the future course that female veterinarians would be heavily involved. They will negotiate new trends and venture outside of established professions, affecting research, technology, global health, activism, and other disciplines. The veterinary industry stands to gain a great deal from the diversity of perspectives and innovative approaches.
