Answer:
As the world population grows and middleclass incomes rise, demand for livestock products increases—a consumption boom shaped by two decade of rapid economic growth and globalization. But there are certain high impact diseases that do not allow animal husbandry to flourish. Less dramatic diseases also impact the performance of farm animals, leading to lower production efficiencies and associated financial losses due to mortality and morbidity. Also, poor animal health in turn negatively influences animal welfare. In fact, studies have demonstrated that there is a direct correlation between the quality of livestock production and the provision of veterinary services.2 Given that food animals support the livelihoods and nourishment of almost a billion people, efforts should be directed at upholding food security.
In this regard, farm-oriented veterinary professionals should advise farmers and owners of livestock or managers of animal production systems on the most appropriate herd health management practices according to local and regional agro-ecological contexts. This extends beyond the treatment of animal illnesses or the implementation of preventive measures, such as strengthened biosecurity, programmed de-worming or vaccination, but also addresses housing, nutrition, cleaning, and environmental sanitation. The correct undertaking of latter practices will likely reduce the usage of veterinary medications and care, thereby reducing input and labor costs, which in turn positively influences farm productivity and profit margins.
