Foreign veterinarians share AVMA concerns

Dr. Johanna Toia, president of the Australian Veterinary Association, told the AVMA House of Delegates July 12 that her association is tackling many of the same issues the AVMA is, including attracting veterinarians to rural practices, stopping breed-specific dangerous dog legislation, and preventing bioterrorism and foreign animal disease outbreaks.

"We can't seem to attract young people to rural practice," Dr. Toia said.

Mr. Peter Jinman, president-elect of the British Veterinary Association, stressed that the events of last year—the foot-and-mouth disease outbreak in the United Kingdom and the terrorist attacks on the United States—highlighted the need for veterinarians to prepare for animal disease outbreaks, whether they are accidental or acts of terrorism.

"Last year, in the United Kingdom we experienced one of the most devastating veterinary emergencies in history," Mr. Jinman said, adding later, "I believe Sept. 11 made you aware of the vulnerability of all nations."

Dr. Fred Nind, president of the Federation of Veterinarians of Europe, said that in Europe, veterinarians are concerned about the need for continuing education, animal welfare,and the free movement of veterinarians in the growing European Union.

"It has become evident that you can't cram the changing field of veterinary medicine into four years," Dr. Nind said.

Dr. Jim Edwards, president of the World Veterinary Association, said the organization is continuing to grow and is grateful for the leadership role the AVMA is taking in the WVA. Several AVMA members have been nominated for leadership positions in the WVA; Dr. Leon Russell has been nominated for vice president, Dr. James E. Nave and Dr. Sebastian Heath have been nominated for council positions.

"The AVMA has been a strong force in the WVA," Dr. Edwards said. "I urge you to continue with strong communication not just within the profession but also with the community around us."