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The Equitarians Vision 2010
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1. Introduction
The use of working equids is increasing worldwide in the face of rising petroleum costs and decreasing agricultural income. Refugees, because of wars or famine, have their animals confiscated as they enter camps. In many cases, the animal was their only means of livelihood and transport. Aid agencies are focused only on human health and not on the working animals. Thus, their loss is not only inhumane, it makes recovery nearly impossible. Reconnecting people with working equids would be the most appropriate, cost-effective solution to rebuilding lives and the community (Figs. 1–4).
2. The Problem
There are ~100 million working equids (horses, mules, donkeys) worldwide that are vital to agriculture and critical in transportation of goods. Urban use is rising for working equids.
3. Commerce Begins on Their Back
Recent disasters in Haiti have clearly shown that animals could continue to deliver foodstuffs to local markets, despite severe infrastructure damage. The problem became one of maldistribution. Where do we, as equine veterinarians, go from here? What specifically can we do to help the working horses of the world? How can I begin a career track that allows me to expand my reach and still pay a mortgage? What sorts of jobs are available? Are there short-term projects one can do or must I just send money? How do I begin to develop a career path that will allow me to use my skills, either full or part time?1 Veterinarians are problem solvers, diagnosticians, incredibly hard working, and altruistic. We see through red tape, around and over obstacles, and cut to the core of problems. Many aid efforts are often misdirected, duplicated, underestimated, and underfunded. Many efforts are undertaken that, although sometimes heroic and possibly beneficial (deworming and floating teeth on horses whose main problem is lack of food, etc.), are missing their mark. Re-prioritization and re-direction will often result from outside examination, consultation, or combining efforts of disparate groups. In the absence of directed outside influence by governmental bodies and an increasingly distracted public, it is up to private interests to step in, educate, and, in many cases, organize effective action.2
4. Training Beyond Practice
Disaster training and coordination is an important component of work in any disaster. During a recent assessment visit to Haiti, our first “official act” was to meet with the Minister of Agriculture, a veterinarian named Dr. Millien, and discuss the need for serious training for the native veterinarians. He recognized the needs for working equids and keeping agriculture intact as a top priority.
The need for intense training by skilled practitioners on an annual basis is a fundamental part of an ongoing effort. Bringing in teams of practitioners to teach practical surgical and medical skills is a basic tenant of the ongoing plan.
Saddle and equipment sores are a major source of disability. If an animal can’t work, his family doesn’t eat. Training locals in harness construction and fitting provides both humane equipment and a new trade for many.
5. Step 1: Acquire Skills
Become an Expert in the Routine
Clinical skills and expertise get better with practice and field training. Organizations working in developing countries need skilled, practiced hands to both perform and teach required procedures. Dealing with a group of panicked horse owners in a show barn, just exposed to strangles or equine infectious anemia (EIA), is excellent practice for looking at and managing disease outbreaks everywhere! Searching for a bleeder, deep in a wound on a recalcitrant horse, teaches patience, dexterity, and innovation!
Don’t Underestimate the Client
A struggling horse owner in the developing world has to make a living and support his family on less than we spend on lattes! He knows his animal and wants the best. Being board certified is not a requirement for being a traveling veterinarian but is a real asset. The attention to detail that can only be acquired by time in the trenches, with proper mentoring and support, is only enhanced by passing it on! These skills also apply to working with many aid organizations.
Teach as You Assist
The only way toward sustainability is education. Assist and, in some cases, direct, but always be ready to fade into the background once proper principles are in place. Innovation comes only after solid principles that are learned well are applied. The “germ theory of disease” is constant and world-wide. No shortcuts!
6. Step 2: Do Your Homework
The Web Is a Resource Without Parallel
One’s vision can only be enhanced by “visiting” sites and cultures using the Internet. There is no part of the globe that can’t be explored. What are your talents and where do you think they would be best used? A personal inventory is the first step. What is your motivation? “Saving the world” doesn’t count. What are your skills (language, surgery, lameness, infectious diseases, nutrition)? Do you have time preferences? Can you give a week, a month, or a year? What are your financial resources? Can you contribute toward expenses or need assistance?
Network
Many community-based groups and service organizations have national or international reach. If you join them, make sure that they also have interests and goals similar to your own. Most do not have any idea what you do or what you can offer. Pulling human teeth or deworming children in a remote jungle village may not be what you had in mind. Many groups are ideologically directed, with services being only a “hook” to gain access.
Become Problem Based
Most of one’s professional education is problem based. Looking for solutions is only effective after diagnosis has been made. Veterinarians with clinical and practical experience are usually world-class problem solvers. Research the political and historic background of areas in which you want to serve. Cultural sensitivity (or lack thereof) is the downfall of many otherwise appropriate projects. There are programs that allow practitioners to receive appropriate training and begin the networking process while still working.3 There are many short time postings and projects that allow such transitions and will give satisfaction and an initiation into a life that may or may not work out as expected, but will nonetheless, be rewarding.3 [...]
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