World Veterinary Day is celebrated annually on the last Saturday of April. The day is dedicated to honouring the significant contributions veterinarians make to animal health, public health and environmental sustainability. It serves as an opportunity to acknowledge the vital work done by veterinarians and other animal health professionals. Their work includes preventing zoonotic diseases, ensuring food safety, promoting animal welfare and contributing to the overall health of ecosystems. In an interconnected world the health of animals directly impacts human health and environmental well-being. Veterinarians also play an essential role in responding to emerging health crises conducting research and advancing veterinary science.

The day brings attention to the fact that veterinarians are not only responsible for treating animals but are also integral to public health. Their expertise is needed in preventing diseases, maintaining food safety, supporting agriculture and protecting the environment. World Veterinary Day helps raise awareness of these contributions and encourages the public to understand the importance of the veterinary profession. The World Veterinary Association selects a theme each year to focus on specific aspects of veterinary medicine and the theme for 2025 is “Animal Health Takes a Team”. This theme emphasises the collaborative nature of veterinary care. Veterinary professionals, including veterinarians, veterinary nurses, technicians, researchers and allied health workers, all play crucial roles in ensuring the health and well-being of animals. It highlights that optimal care for animals is not the work of one person but rather a collective effort with each team member contributing their expertise to ensure the best outcomes for animal health.

Organisations worldwide observe World Veterinary Day through various initiatives focused on education, outreach and advocacy. National and international veterinary associations, such as the World Veterinary Association conduct campaigns online events and social media activities to promote the annual theme and inform the public about veterinarians’ vital role in society. The World Veterinary Day also recognises outstanding contributions to the field through the World Veterinary Day Award. Veterinary schools and universities host workshops, seminars and community outreach programs to raise awareness about animal health, ethical care and teamwork in veterinary practices with students often providing free health check-ups for local pets. Animal welfare organisations like the Humane Society and World Animal Protection use the occasion to highlight welfare issues, promote responsible pet ownership and conduct activities such as vaccination clinics, spay/neuter programs and fundraising events. Veterinary clinics and hospitals contribute by offering special discounts or free services, including vaccinations and health screenings, while also engaging pet owners through educational events. Social media platforms amplify these efforts using hashtags like #World Veterinary Day and #Animal Health Takes a Team to share stories, facts and educational content that celebrate the work of veterinarians and emphasize the importance of animal health. Indian Army is also contributing immensely in this field by organising veterinary camps for villages in remote areas and Gujjar and Bakarwal stocks. 

You can get involved in supporting animal health by participating in campaigns organized by animal welfare groups and veterinary associations through donations, volunteering or sharing information on social media. Practicing responsible pet ownership is also essential, including keeping up with vaccinations, regular check-ups and providing proper nutrition for your pets. Volunteering at animal shelters or donating to organisations that focus on improving animal health and welfare, especially in underserved communities can make a meaningful impact. Also, advocating for better policies, such as stronger animal welfare laws, support for vaccination programs and increased funding for veterinary research, helps promote and protect animal health on a broader scale.

The role of the Animal Husbandry and Fisheries Department has been significantly enhanced due to the sizeable presence of animal rearing communities and livestock in the region, particularly in areas like Kashmir, where veterinary services play a crucial role in supporting rural livelihoods and safeguarding animal health. World Veterinary Day 2025 offers a chance to reflect on the importance of teamwork in veterinary medicine. Veterinarians and their teams play a critical role in safeguarding animal health, public health and the environment.  The theme “Animal Health Takes a Team” emphasises the need for collaboration among various professionals to ensure optimal care for animals. This day serves as a reminder of the collective effort needed to protect and improve the health of animals and by extension, the health of communities and ecosystems around the world.