Veterinary Professionals
One Health is the concept that links animal, human, and environmental health. Veterinarians and veterinary technicians are vital to this approach. They manage vectors and vector-borne diseases and serve as key advisors to animal owners, who may be at increased risk for certain vector-borne diseases. Recognizing this, the VectorED Network acknowledges veterinarians as trusted sources of information for animal owners.
The VectorED Network is focused on improving its understanding of veterinarians' education and communication needs regarding vectors and vector-borne diseases.
Our veterinary professional objectives are:
1 Perform a comprehensive needs assessment to evaluate the current knowledge, attitudes, and practices of veterinary professionals regarding vector-borne diseases. This assessment aims to identify gaps in understanding and areas for improvement, ensuring that veterinarians are well-equipped to manage and communicate about these health issues effectively.
2 Develop and implement enhanced communication strategies to strengthen the dialogue between veterinarians and their clients about vectors and vector-borne diseases. This objective focuses on improving the clarity, effectiveness, and reach of communications to ensure that clients are well-informed and can take appropriate actions to protect their pets and themselves.
3 Investigate client expectations and preferences for information they receive from veterinarians about vectors and vector-borne diseases. This objective seeks to understand what clients want to know, how they prefer to receive this information, and how veterinarians can tailor their advice to better meet these needs, ultimately fostering more effective and supportive client-veterinarian relationships.
Who does this benefit?
By focusing on these objectives, the VectorED Network supports veterinarians and veterinary technicians in acquiring valuable knowledge and resources to improve their management of these critical issues. This, in turn, benefits animal owners by providing them with better-informed advice and preventive strategies to protect their pets and themselves. The broader public health landscape also gains from more effective vector management and disease prevention, helping to reduce the incidence and spread of vector-borne diseases. Additionally, the VectorED Network's efforts contribute to the well-being of animals and support research and education organizations in refining their programs to better serve the veterinary community.