Stories of Successful Women Veterinarians Globally
Shivali Khandelwal
Ph.D. Scholar, Department of Veterinary Microbiology, ICAR-Indian Veterinary Research Institute, Izatnagar, Bareilly, Uttar Pradesh, India
Email: shivalikhandelwal11@gmail.com
Introduction:
From pioneering innovative technologies to shattering glass ceilings, women have been challenging stereotypes and propelling veterinary medicine to new frontiers as long as animals have relied on their care. Women veterinarians have played a crucial role in advancing the field, assuming leadership roles in veterinary organizations, academia, and industry. They contribute significantly to research, policy formulation, and the progress of veterinary medicine. Like in various professions, women in veterinary medicine encounter obstacles such as gender bias, work-life balance concerns, and discrimination. Nevertheless, there is a positive trend, with an increasing number of women choosing and excelling in veterinary careers. Women veterinarians can be found in diverse settings, including private clinics, research institutions, zoos, government agencies, and educational institutions. Their roles encompass preventive care, surgical procedures, research endeavors, and contributions to public health through disease control and prevention. Furthermore, there has been a landmark development with the recruitment of female veterinarians in the Remount Veterinary Corps (RVC) of the Indian Army. This inclusion allows women to serve as officers and includes provisions for maternity leave during their studies. Female students also benefit from a substantial period of upto 240 days, supported by the UGC. These achievements serve as inspiration for every determined woman aspiring to pursue higher education, skillfully managing her life despite the challenges and uncertainties she may face. Whether in the breakroom, boardroom, classroom, courtroom, or exam room, female veterinarians are trailblazing from one coast to another.
History of women in the Veterinary profession:
After the conclusion of the First World War, women entered nearly all professions that were traditionally dominated by men in the Western world. Their demonstrated competence led to the recognition of their abilities. Additionally, the Sex Disqualification (Removal) Act of 1919 prompted many professional governing bodies to open their doors to women, allowing them to enroll in professional colleges. Despite this progress, the veterinary profession, being one of the last traditionally male-dominated fields, hesitated in admitting women. An article in The Veterinary Record on April 7, 1934, acknowledged the competence of women veterinarians, particularly in the treatment of horses. The women veterinarians of the 19th century served as inspirations for many more women to pursue a career in veterinary medicine. Currently, in both Western and Eastern countries, girls outnumber boys in veterinary education. The women veterinarians in India established the Indian Association of Lady Veterinarians on October 2, 1985, at Veterinary College, Thrissur, Kerala. This national body, known as the IALV, serves as a common platform, bringing together women veterinarians from various sectors to exchange views and ideas.
Dr. Sakkubhai Ramachandran was the first woman veterinarian of India:
In India, Madras Veterinary College at Vepery in Chennai opened it’s first portal for admission to girls for the Bachelor of Veterinary Science course in 1948. Dr Sakkubhai Ramachandran was the first woman veterinarian of India, graduated in 1952 and later assumed multiple significant posts and retired as a Scientist from IVRI, Bangalore, 1971. 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.
Padma Shree awardee- The pride of Nation:
Dr. Sosamma Iype, former Professor of Animal Genetics and Breeding at Kerala Agriculture University, known as “Vechur’s Amma,” was conferred with the Padma Shree award. She got the award for the conservation of the indigenous breeds of Vechur cow, Kasargod and Cheruvally cattle, and Attappady goats from the brink of extinction. Sosamma Iype was born in 1941 at Niranam village in Thiruvalla of present-day Pathanamthitta district. She was a Professor and researcher at Kerala Veterinary University (formerly Mannuthy Veterinary College). Sosamma, who holds a PhD from the National Dairy Research Institute, Karnal, Haryana. She retired from Kerala Veterinary University in 2001 as the Director, the Centre for Advanced Studies in Animal Genetics & Breeding. Despite retiring from official life, Sosamma is still active in the Vechur Conservation Trust, an NGO formed for the conservation of domestic animals and birds of Kerala State.
Meet some of the female veterinarians blazing a path for the next generation:
Dr. Pragati Panda, the former Professor in the Department of Animal Genetics and Breeding, Odisha University of Agriculture and Technology, Bhubaneswar, was the first lady veterinarian of Odisha.
Dr. Amrita Patel, the former Chairman of National Dairy Development Board and Bombay Veterinary College alumna is the first woman veterinarian in the progressive state of Gujarat.
The first-ever woman who graduated from Bangalore Veterinary College was Dr Prema, who worked for the Animal Husbandry department and retired as Assistant Director during the 1980s.
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.
Dr. Aditi Sharma – Director and Founder of the Council for Environment and Sustainable Development and currently working for Environment Conservation and Health and Well Being of All through One Health Approach. Additionally, she works as a Freelance Wildlife, Veterinary & One Health Consultant on hybrid mode. She has an experience of 20+ years in providing solutions and services for wildlife and livestock health and conservation issues. She has completed various online courses on ecology, climate change, and personal branding to keep abreast of the latest trends and developments in my field. Previously, she worked as a Senior Veterinary Officer in the Uttarakhand Government, where she handled various wildlife health and rescue operations, including tiger capture and translocation, elephant care and rehabilitation, and wildlife disease surveillance and prevention. She has been certified as a trainer by the National Tiger Conservation Authority and the Dale Carnegie Institute for Wildlife Capture and Human-Wildlife Conflict Mitigation, respectively. She has also contributed to several national and international projects, publications, and conferences on wildlife conservation and policy. She is an ISO-certified Trainer and Auditor for the POSH and POCSO Act.
Dr. Rina Dev spends pretty much all her time rescuing animals in distress. Apart from her successful practice in Mumbai, she also takes on a lot of volunteer work. She was one of the first to step forward and join a team rescuing hundreds of injured livestock, dogs, and cats that had got crushed under rubble when the earthquake hit Nepal in April 2015.
The versatile field veterinarian, Dr. Sonia Kamla Sharma of Rajasthan. She has completed PhD (Gold medalist) in Pathology from CVAS, Bikaner. She has channel on YouTube ” Positive Vibes” on health. She is a yoga expert and often helps others to learn in groups in parks etc and through her videos. She also participated in the Rajasthani beauty contest in 2008 in the International Camel Festival in Bikaner and got first prize in Miss Marwan competition. During UG and PG college days she actively participated and won prizes in debates organised by various associations in several states. She got first prize in essay competition ” Bridging the energy gap role of nuclear energy in India” organised by Dept of Atomic Energy, Govt of India.
Dr. Kaveri Jambagi, PhD in veterinary medicine from IVRI and had PG Diploma in Animal Welfare from IGNOU. She is the champion of Mallakhamb. She has won several Karnataka state championships and medals in Junior men and Women National Championship in this sport. Karnataka Govt honoured her with KREEDA RATNA TITLE in 2010 for extraordinary dedication and achievements in this field. She is a trained Hindustani classical vocalist and cleared junior examination.
Women veterinarians from the world:
Dr. Elinor McGrath, DVM, is recognized as a trailblazer in the realm of women veterinarians and is often regarded as America’s first female veterinarian. Born around 1888, Dr. McGrath’s passion for animals motivated her to enter the male-dominated field of veterinary medicine. In 1907, she achieved a significant milestone by becoming the first woman admitted to Chicago Veterinary College, breaking down the first of many barriers she would encounter on her journey. Despite the challenges, Dr. McGrath successfully graduated in 1910, a decade before women in the U.S. were granted the right to vote.
Dr. Jane Hinton, DVM, earned her degree from the University of Pennsylvania in 1948, becoming one of the first two African-American women to achieve the title of Doctor of Veterinary Medicine. Dr. Hinton, whose father was the first black professor at Harvard University, made groundbreaking contributions to the medical field by co-developing the Mueller-Hinton medium. This medium is instrumental in testing bacteria for antibiotic resistance, showcasing Dr. Hinton’s significant impact on clinical microbiology, medicine, veterinary medicine, and public health.
Dr. Janet Donlin, DVM, holds the distinction of being the first female CEO of the American Veterinary Medical Association (AVMA). Joining the AVMA in 1991, she initially oversaw the accreditation of their veterinary technician program. In 2016, Dr. Donlin shattered a major glass ceiling when she was appointed as CEO, marking the first time a woman held the top position. Today, she leads the AVMA’s efforts to advocate for, educate, and advance the veterinary profession.
Dr. Linda Fineman’s professional journey began during her college years when her cherished cat was diagnosed with cancer. This experience propelled her towards the Washington State University College of Veterinary Medicine, where she pursued internships and residency training. Her passion for oncology led her to become a specialist in the field, eventually resulting in her co-ownership of a practice with a group of partners. This hands-on experience in practice management and leadership became the foundation for her role as the medical director of a multispecialty hospital. Later, Dr. Fineman transitioned to the Ethos Veterinary Health hospital network, where she assumed the position of vice president of learning and development. Currently, she is exploring a different facet of the veterinary profession in her role as the Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of the American College of Veterinary Internal Medicine.
Dr. Joya Griffin’s greatest passion within the field of veterinary medicine is dermatology. Her interest in this specialization was sparked during her time in veterinary school when she witnessed the transformative impact of Cornell University’s dermatology team on her family dog, Gizmo. Describing Gizmo as a significant dermatologic challenge, malodorous, with facial ulcerations, and dependent on a daily e-collar- Dr. Griffin relocated Gizmo to Ithaca, New York, during her veterinary studies. Upon scheduling an appointment with the dermatologic service at Cornell University, Gizmo experienced a remarkable turnaround within weeks. The infections cleared, itching was controlled, her skin healed, hair regrew, and the e-collar became unnecessary. This firsthand encounter illustrated to Dr. Griffin the profound effects of specialized care and how it saved Gizmo’s life. Motivated by this experience, Dr. Griffin aspired to provide similar transformative care for people and their pets. Her goal was not only to enhance the aesthetic appearance of pets but also to revive the human-animal bond by offering pets an improved quality of life. Presently, Dr. Griffin practices veterinary dermatology and is featured in the Nat Geo Wild TV series “Pop Goes the Vet With Dr. Joya.”
Dr. Lila Miller, DVM, dedicated a 40-year career to improving the lives of shelter pets in America. Overcoming challenges as one of only two black women in her enrollment year at Cornell University College of Veterinary Medicine, Dr. Miller graduated early and implemented guidelines in ASPCA shelters to ensure humane treatment, including vaccinations and illness treatment. Her protocols were adopted nationwide, creating a more respectful environment for homeless pets.
Dr. Dani McVety, DVM, and Dr. Mary Gardner, DVM, co-founded Lap of Love over a decade ago in Tampa, Florida. This organization, the first of its kind in the U.S., provides end-of-life care for sick animals. Lap of Love offers services such as veterinary hospice and in-home euthanasia, supporting pets and their owners during challenging times.
Dr. Justine Lee, DVM, DACVECC, DABT, is a specialist in emergency critical care and toxicology. With a lifelong dedication to emergency animal care since the age of 7, Dr. Lee is the first-ever double-boarded emergency critical care specialist. She contributes to veterinary education through her role as the CEO and founder of VETgirl, one of the first online continuing education platforms for veterinary professionals.
Dr. Zay Satchu, DVM, revolutionized the veterinary industry with the establishment of her veterinary clinic, Bond Vet, in New York City. As the co-founder and Chief Veterinary Officer, Dr. Satchu introduced innovative changes, turning veterinary visits into a self-care practice for both humans and animals. Her thoughtful approach includes a redesigned lobby and a specialized software platform for appointment-taking and record-keeping.
Dr. Heather N. Fowler obtained her veterinary medical degree from the University of Pennsylvania School of Veterinary Medicine in 2010. She furthered her education with a master’s in public health with a focus on applied biostatistics and epidemiology from Yale University, as well as a doctorate in environmental and occupational hygiene from the University of Washington. As a board-certified veterinarian specializing in preventive medicine, Dr. Fowler possesses expertise in areas such as zoonotic disease, public health, worker safety and health, and One Health. In 2017, she joined the National Pork Board, where she assumed a role overseeing public health and occupational safety and health matters related to swine production. Demonstrating her commitment to continuous learning, Dr. Fowler achieved certification from the Project Management Institute in 2020.
In addition to these contemporary pioneers, there is a notable list of historical female veterinarians who broke barriers, including Dr. Mignon Nicholson, Dr. Helen Richt Irwin, Dr. Mary Knight Dunlap, Dr. Maria von Maltzan, Drs. Alfreda Johnson Webb and Jane Hinton, Dr. Mary Beth Leininger, Dr. Tracey McNamara, Dr. Bernadette Dunham, Dr. Bonnie Beaver, Dr. Rene Carlson, and Dr. Janet Donlin. These women have made significant contributions to the veterinary field, demonstrating leadership, innovation, and resilience.
In conclusion, the journey of women empowerment in veterinary medicine is a testament to the resilience, dedication, and trailblazing spirit of female veterinarians. Overcoming historical barriers and societal expectations, women have made significant strides in this traditionally male-dominated field. From early pioneers, who broke ground at the beginning of the 20th century, to contemporary women in veterinary medicine have continuously shattered glass ceilings. The stories of female vets showcase not only the diversity of contributions but also the depth of impact these women have had on veterinary practice, education, research, and industry. Their accomplishments extend beyond the veterinary clinic, influencing the realms of microbiology, public health, emergency care, and even reshaping the veterinary industry itself.
The collective narrative of these women reflects not only individual success but also a broader movement toward gender equality in veterinary medicine. As the number of women pursuing and excelling in veterinary careers continues to rise, the profession becomes enriched with diverse perspectives, skills, and approaches. The establishment of organizations like the Indian Association of Lady Veterinarians and the recognition of female leaders in various veterinary associations worldwide underscore the importance of creating supportive communities for women in the field.
Despite the progress, challenges such as gender bias and work-life balance issues persist. However, the stories of these women inspire the next generation to persevere and contribute to the ongoing evolution of veterinary medicine. The empowerment of women in this field is not just a matter of individual achievement but a transformative force that benefits the entire profession, fostering innovation, inclusivity, and excellence. The collective impact of women in veterinary medicine serves as a beacon of empowerment, encouraging further advancements and setting the stage for a future where gender equality is not just a goal but a reality in the veterinary world.
References:
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Rajeshwari Shome (2008): Compendium on Role of women Veterinarians in augmenting rural economy through animal Husbandry of IX National Technical Seminar, 11th -12th Jan 2008.
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