PINNACLE OF PRIDE: JOURNEY OF FEMALE VETERINARIAN
Abboori Sangeetha1, K. Mohanambal2
Department of Veterinary Medicine,
College of Veterinary Science, Rajendranagar
PVNR Telangana Veterinary University
Hyderabad-30, Telangana state
1Post Graduate Student, Department of Veterinary Medicine, CVSc, R’Nagar, PVNRTVU, Hyderabad
2Assistant Professor, Department of clinical veterinary Medicine, VCRI, Namakkal
The image of a veterinarian – often stoic, resolute, perhaps with a hint of mud on their boots – has for long been dominated by a singular silhouette. Throughout history, women have faced numerous barriers in entering traditionally male-dominated fields. The world of veterinary was no exception. But the landscape of animal care is rapidly transforming, and at the forefront stand women, rewriting the narrative with each skillful diagnosis and compassionate touch. In the present scenarios women veterinarians are not just doctors but entrepreneurs. For instance, Dr Katrina warren who is a regular vet for Australia’s today show and previously as the host of “Beverly Hills Vet” and “Housecat House call” on Animal Planet is an example and inspiration for budding lady Vets who wish to bring the profession to limelight. In this article lets get to know about the torchbearers for women in veterinary medicine.
Pioneering Women in Veterinary Medicine: Breaking Barriers and Shaping HistoryTop of Form
Ms. Parisienne, in 1889, became the first woman to enter the veterinary field, paving the way for others like Kruszevska and Dobrovoljskaja who earned degrees in Zurich that same year. Facing obstacles in Ireland, Aleen Cust moved to England, breaking through in 1922 as the first recognized female veterinary surgeon breaking gender barriers and inspiring future generations and paved the way for greater gender diversity in veterinary medicine. In the United States, Dr. Katherine Schupp opened her own practice in 1909, defying convention. Dr. Wood-Allum’s Queen’s Award for wildlife conservation, including a mobile rhino clinic, stands as a testament to her dedication. Lithuanian Dr. Martynkienė’s contributions to animal disease treatments and American Dr. McBay’s pioneering work in animal acupuncture are invaluable. With ventures like Veterinary Business Advisors Inc., Dr. Lacroix further diversified the field. remarkable women collectively reshaped the history and landscape of veterinary medicine, overcoming challenges and inspiring generations to come.
Indian women shaping history
In the history of Indian veterinary medicine, 1948 is etched as a year of momentous change. For the first time, the Madras Veterinary College in Vepery, Chennai, welcomed women into the Bachelor of Veterinary Science program, marking a pivotal moment that paved the way for women in the field. Dr. Sakkubhai Ramachandran emerged as a trailblazer, becoming the first woman veterinarian in India by graduating in 1952 from Madras Veterinary College. Her career included prestigious positions, and she retired as a Scientist from IVRI, Bangalore, in 1971. Following her footsteps, Dr. N. Kalyani graduated in 1952 from Madras Veterinary College, challenging gender norms within the profession.
Dr. Pushpa Ranaparkhe, a 1962 graduate, played a vital role in building a national community for women in veterinary medicine. Founding the All-India Association of Lady Veterinarians (AILV) in 1985 offering crucial support and networking for women. Further solidifying their progress, Dr. Annamma Jacob became the first female Dean of the Kerala Veterinary College, a powerful symbol of their achievements in this traditionally male-dominated field. Dr. Prema, graduating in the 1950s from the Veterinary College, Bangalore, was one of Karnataka’s first female veterinarians, serving with distinction in the Animal Husbandry Department until her retirement as an Assistant Director in the 1980s..
Affectionately known as “Vechur Amma,” Dr. Sosamma Iype is a former Professor of Animal Genetics and Breeding at Kerala Agriculture University, whose unwavering dedication has transformed her into a pioneer in biodiversity conservation. Her passion for preserving indigenous breeds like the Vechur cow, Kasargod cattle, Cheruvally cattle, and Attappady goats, all on the brink of extinction, earned her the prestigious Padma Shri award. Dr. Iype’s commitment extends beyond research, as she actively champions the cause through her book “Vechurpasu Punarjanmam,” meaning “Vechur Cow: Rebirth.” Her efforts have garnered her numerous accolades, including the India Biodiversity Award, commendations from the UNDP, Indian Ministry of Forest, Environment, and Climate Change, and the National Biodiversity Authority. Vechur Amma’s story is one of unwavering dedication, a testament to the power of individual action in safeguarding our planet’s precious biodiversity. Her journey serves as an inspiration to us all, urging us to be the change we wish to see in the world.
Motivating women to pursue veterinary medicine as a full-time career option Dr. Amrita Patel’s dedication and success serve as a source of encouragement, influencing many aspiring women to enter and thrive in the veterinary profession. This ripple effect, initiated by the accomplishments of trailblazing women like Dr. Patel, significantly contributes to the diversification and empowerment of women in the field of veterinary science. As a prominent Indian businessperson and environmentalist, Dr. Patel chaired the National Dairy Development Board (NDDB) from 1998 to 2014, overseeing Operation Flood, the world’s largest dairy development program. Awarded the Padma Bhushan in 2001, she held leadership roles in Mother Dairy, Delhi, and served as the President of the Indian National Committee of the International Dairy Federation. She is recognized with numerous awards.
Dr. P. P. Nilufer’s appointment as the inaugural woman veterinary surgeon veterinarian from the tropical union territory of Lakshadweep in Kavaratti, in 2017 marked a groundbreaking moment for women in veterinary medicine within the region.
A rising star in Indian wildlife veterinary medicine, Dr. Meghana Pemmaiah, through her Instagram (@meghana_pem), offers a window into her world of wildlife care, showcasing heartwarming reunions and intricate surgeries. From scaling buildings to save leopards to performing surgery on a cobra, she’s fearless and super skilled at treating all kinds of wild creatures. But Dr. Pemmaiah’s impact extends beyond rescues. She’s a passionate advocate for conservation, educating the public about human-wildlife conflict and the importance of protecting animal habitats.
Another prominent figure in Indian wildlife veterinary medicine, Dr. Aditi Sharma driven by a longstanding passion for wildlife. With qualifications in veterinary surgery and wildlife management, she has made significant contributions to tiger conservation and the rehabilitation of elephants caught in human-wildlife conflicts. Dr. Sharma’s focus extends to researching zoonotic diseases, emphasizing the link between wildlife health and human well-being. Beyond her professional achievements, she actively supports women in the field and has founded charitable trusts for women’s empowerment and environmental conservation. Recognized by various organizations and featured in media outlets, Dr. Sharma continues to make a notable impact on wildlife care and conservation efforts.
Associations for women
The strides in eliminating gender discrimination in the professional realm were catalysed by the Sex Discrimination Act of 1975, playing a major role in dismantling biases associated with abilities and skills based on gender. Despite undeniable progress, it’s acknowledged that numerous women in the veterinary profession face challenges due to commitments to families and society. Recognizing these disparities, the Indian Association of Lady Veterinarians (IALV) emerged as a national body in response to these challenges. Established to create a common platform for women in various veterinary fields, the IALV aims to facilitate the sharing of opinions and views on different aspects of the profession, empowering women veterinarians by ensuring they are well-equipped with the latest technology and abreast of current developmental ideas.
In 1985, on Gandhi Jayanti celebrated on the 2nd of October, the Veterinary College in Thrissur, Kerala, witnessed a historic moment with the formation of the “Indian Association of Lady Veterinarians,” a collective initiative by women veterinarians across India. During this period, Dr. Annamma Jacob made history as the first woman veterinarian appointed as the Dean of Kerala Veterinary College, reflecting the growing presence and influence of women in the veterinary profession. National seminars have brought women veterinarians together, emphasizing the importance of exchanging research outcomes and field experiences. These seminars highlighted the crucial role of women veterinarians in contributing to rural economies through animal husbandry.
Shifting focus to a national level, the inaugural Annual Convention Shakti, organized by the Lady Vet Wing of the Indian Veterinary Association, took place successfully in Bhopal on 13-14th November 2021. This gathering provided a vital platform for discussion and resolution of various issues and challenges faced by female professionals in the field. The IALV has played a crucial role in addressing the challenges faced by women veterinarians, serving as a platform for them to come together, share experiences, and contribute to their professional growth. The combined narratives underscore the significant progress made by women in the veterinary profession in India, from the pioneering efforts of Dr. Sakkubhai Ramachandran to the establishment of organizations like AILV and IALV that aim to support and empower women veterinarians nationwide.
Despite these advancements, challenges persist, including gender bias, work-life balance issues, safety concerns in rural practice, and instances of harassment, all of which hinder the progress of women in the field. Addressing these challenges requires concerted efforts through awareness campaigns, policy changes, support systems, infrastructure improvements, and increased representation in leadership roles. These initiatives aim to create a more inclusive and equitable future for women in Indian veterinary medicine, fostering a positive and diverse trajectory for the profession.
Conclusion
The veterinary profession is undergoing a significant demographic shift, with women now outnumbering men in Western, Eastern, and Asian countries. This change reflects a growing gender balance and increased representation of women. In India, the landscape of veterinary medicine is positively evolving, with women constituting over 70% of veterinary students. Veterinarians who were portrayed in a comedic sense previously are now given a heroic status; like Dr. Zia Rodriguez played by an American actress Daniella Pineda given such a status is even more fascinating.
References
Subhalakshmi Gogoi. “The Prominence of Women in the Veterinary Profession”. Acta Scientific Veterinary Sciences 4.1 (2022): 38-45.
Varsha Singh. “Dr. Aditi Sharma, Senior Veterinarian & Wildlife Health Specialist At Rajaji Tiger Reserve.” Feminism in India, December 15, 2021
Chakrapani, Saranya. “This wildlife veterinarian helps Karnataka’s leopards get back home safe.” YourStory. June 30, 2023.
Mohapatra Samal, Smruti Smita. “The History Of Women Veterinarians In India.” Women’s Web, 3 May 2022.
