Research results indicate an increasing demand for veterinary services for poultry and livestock in cities and suburbs and a need for ongoing continuing education of practitioners, as well as the animal owners according to UC Davis research.
This segment of agriculture has been largely overlooked by the veterinary community in North America.” – Dr. Alda Pires
“The health and welfare of animals in urban and peri-urban areas are of concern because their owners often lack the knowledge or expertise regarding safe handling and animal husbandry,” said Dr. Dale Moore.
Source: Feedstuffs, July 10, 2020. Link. Providing veterinary service to owners of backyard poultry and livestock, who often view their animals as pets rather than production animals, requires a different approach and some different skills versus providing veterinary service to owners of conventional or commercial livestock operations.
Also see: Search results for: backyard, Animal Health Digest. Link. The search shows we’ve been concerned about backyard poultry health for nearly five years.
INSIGHTS: The researchers note the possible need for a new style of practice. Fans of the veterinary shows series on Nat Geo routinely see backyard chickens, goats and pigs treated in a multi-species practice.
New? Not really. A reflection of clientele? YES!