Academics responsible for training China’s vets are being armed with the latest technologies and techniques at an educational workshop held this week at China’s Nanjing Agricultural University.

The workshop is part of an ongoing programme of events that have been put together by the University of Edinburgh and Animals Asia. The workshop was held in partnership with Nanjing Agricultural University, the Chinese Veterinary Medical Association and the Nanjing Public Security Bureau.

The Jeanne Marchig International Centre for Animal Welfare Education (JMICAWE) of the University of Edinburgh, is a hub of expertise on animal welfare science in education and research, collaborating with international partners to advance understanding of animal welfare issues. Animals Asia is an animal welfare organisation working to improve the welfare of animals in China and Vietnam.

The event will share international standards of best practice in veterinary education and promote the integration of innovative new approaches and technologies into veterinary teaching.

Following the event, a second workshop aimed at veterinary students at the Nanjing Agricultural University will provide training in surgery, anaesthesia and dog population management by veterinary experts from the University of Edinburgh and Animals Asia through a collaborative programme with the Nanjing Public Security Bureau.

This forum will promote practical training in key analytical, problem-solving and advanced clinical veterinary skills, helping to better equip veterinarians with the skills needed to work in an increasingly global profession and to deal practically with welfare issues such as rabies and dog population management without resorting to inhumane or ineffective practices.

Heather Bacon of the Jeanne Marchig International Centre for Animal Welfare Education (JMICAWE) of the University of Edinburgh commented: 

“Society increasingly expects veterinarians to ensure that animals used for food, companionship or research are healthy and managed humanely. It is understood that international standards of animal welfare are vital to public health, animal disease management and the economic role of animals in society. The public expects the veterinary profession to take a leading role in promoting respect for animals in a harmonious society.”