Unlocking the Intersection of Human and Animal Health
For most people, animal health is solely associated with veterinarians, who treat our pets when they’re sick. However, bioveterinary sciences is a convergence of veterinary medicine and animal sciences that offers a gateway to various professions. Prof Dr Malaika Watanabe, Dean, School of Veterinary Medicine at IMU University, explains that studies in this field are essential for ensuring the health and welfare of humans and animals.
“Human and animal health are intertwined in many ways. Pets offer companionship, livestock provide sustenance, and biodiversity protects entire ecosystems. We need them, and we need to care for them properly – even livestock destined for the slaughterhouse deserve to exist with as little suffering as possible. That’s where bioveterinary science comes in.”
The Scope of Bioveterinary Sciences
Bioveterinary sciences is a relatively new field of study in Malaysia, and few universities offer this course of study. It involves a combination of medical knowledge, such as anatomy, physiology, microbiology, and pathology, as well as animal care and management. Students pursuing bioveterinary sciences have the opportunity to learn basic clinical skills, such as restraint, handling, and nursing care.
- Key species studied in bioveterinary sciences include dogs, cats, horses, cows, goats/sheep, poultry, and pigs – primarily companion animals and livestock.
- Graduates in bioveterinary sciences may pursue professional qualifications as veterinarians, animal care and management, or research and farm management.
- The scope of bioveterinary sciences supports the ethical and responsible treatment of animals, protecting public health by maintaining hygiene standards and preventing environmental contamination.
The Bigger Picture
All life is interconnected, and animal health is not just a concern for animal lovers. The global meat production has more than tripled over the past 50 years, and the emotional connection humans have with companion animals contributes to a booming pet industry. In Malaysia, over 50% of the population owns pets, contributing to a 25% growth in the pet care sector.
| Year | Value (USD billion) |
|---|---|
| 2023 | 246 |
| 2032 | 427 |
“Animal health is not just about the animals themselves, but also about the environment and human health. When you work to ensure animal health, you are also working to ensure environmental health and, by extension, human health as well,” said Prof Watanabe.
Raising the Bar on Animal Health and Wellness
Prof Watanabe emphasizes the importance of respect for mutual wellness, which must be instilled from a young age. Education and awareness are crucial in changing mindsets, from families to schools and society at large, to promote compassion for all living things. “Working with animals, especially when you are working to ensure their health and wellness, can be gruelling. Even as students, you will be exposed to veterinary clinics, poultry farms, horse stables, and various other environments that might not seem pleasant. However, passion and genuine compassion for animals will help sustain you.”
Prof Watanabe encourages students to explore various paths, including becoming a veterinarian, livestock manager, or conservationist. By working together, we can raise the bar on animal health and wellness, promoting a more compassionate and sustainable world.
The Future of Bioveterinary Sciences
As the field of bioveterinary sciences continues to grow, it is essential to recognize its potential as a gateway to various professions. By understanding the intersection of human and animal health, we can work towards a more sustainable and compassionate world. “The health and welfare of humans and animals are intertwined in many ways.