Veterinary Training Research Articles

A Comparative Analysis of Reproductive and Productive Performance of Jharkhand State Cooperative Milk Producers’ Federation

Background: The reproductive and productive performance play significant role in judging the qualitative and quantitative traits in a dairy animal and has direct effect on the milk production and profitability in any dairy enterprise. Methods: The present study was conducted in Jharkhand State, wherein 180 members of Jharkhand State Cooperative Milk Producers’ Federation and 180 non-member dairy farmers were randomly selected from three districts of Jharkhand. The data was collected from a total of 360 respondents using structured interview schedule. For present study, 135 crossbred, 58 indigenous cattle and 82 buffaloes were selected from the members; whereas 102 crossbred cattle, 36 indigenous cattle and 79 buffaloes were selected from non-members. Result: The findings revealed that dairy animals reared by cooperative members showed better reproductive and productive performance that their non-member counterparts. This is attributed to reason that JMF members adopted better dairy management practices due to availability of timely veterinary services, quality feed and training on improved dairy practices. Therefore, through increased participation in JMF; creating awareness and training regarding improved dairy management, adequate extension, breeding policy and financial support would further enhance the productivity among the dairy animals in the state.

Innovative methods in the training of veterinarians

The purpose of the study is to analyze the process of integration of the method of case study with the elements of business games in the educational process of an agrarian university. By means of participant and non-participant observation in experimental student groups, the authors prove that the sophisticated innovative case study technology used in the classroom in the form of independent work combined with a business game creates conditions for the development of professional clinical thinking in students, as well as for the improvement of their creative and research abilities. It is found that the development of applied cases for independent work with their further use in business games during practical classes contributes to deeper assimilation of the learning material and provides for the development of both universal and professional competencies.

Номинации пациента в ветеринарном дискурсе: языковая рефлексия и тенденции

The aim of the article is to systematize the names of the patient in veterinary discourse. The use of the word “patient” in relation to an animal is considered. The nominations of animal-patients recorded in the names of modern veterinary profiles, specialties and training courses are analysed. The scientific novelty of the work is due to the appeal to the concept of the veterinary discourse object, which is practically not studied in linguistics, and is represented in the changing nominations of animals being treated. The obtained results demonstrate the presence of reflection markers that emphasize the unusual use of the lexeme “patient” in relation to an animal, allow us to identify tendencies, on the one hand, towards generalization, and on the other hand, towards systematization of animal patients on various grounds.

Extended reality veterinary medicine case studies for diagnostic veterinary imaging instruction: Assessing student perceptions and examination performance.

Educational technologies in veterinary medicine aim to train veterinarians faster and improve clinical outcomes. COVID-19 pandemic, shifted face-to-face teaching to online, thus, the need to provide effective education remotely was exacerbated. Among recent technology advances for veterinary medical education, extended reality (XR) is a promising teaching tool. This study aimed to develop a case resolution approach for radiographic anatomy studies using XR technology and assess students' achievement of differential diagnostic skills. Learning objectives based on Bloom's taxonomy keywords were used to develop four clinical cases (3 dogs/1 cat) of spinal injuries utilizing CT scans and XR models and presented to 22 third-year veterinary medicine students. Quantitative assessment (ASMT) of 7 questions probing 'memorization', 'understanding and application', 'analysis' and 'evaluation' was given before and after contact with XR technology as well as qualitative feedback via a survey. Mean ASMT scores increased during case resolution (pre 51.6% (±37%)/post 60.1% (± 34%); p < 0.01), but without significant difference between cases (Kruskal-Wallis H=2.18, NS). Learning objectives were examined for six questions (Q1-Q6) across cases (C1-4): Memorization improved sequentially (Q1, 2 8/8), while Understanding and Application (Q3,4) showed the greatest improvement (26.7%-76.9%). Evaluation and Analysis (Q5,6) was somewhat mixed, improving (5/8), no change (3/8) and declining (1/8).Positive student perceptions suggest that case studies' online delivery was well received stimulating learning in diagnostic imaging and anatomy while developing visual-spatial skills that aid understanding cross-sectional images. Therefore, XR technology could be a useful approach to complement radiological instruction in veterinary medicine.

The Use of Virtual-Problem-Based Learning during COVID-19 Pandemic Emergency: Veterinary Students' Perception.

Simple SummaryNew teaching methods become more popular during the COVID-19 pandemic emergency to guarantee high educational standards despite the strict rules of social distancing and lockdown. Problem-based learning represents one of the most popular and flexible teaching systems, replicating real-life experiences and stimulating the integration of knowledge and lifelong learning skills. The authors aimed to assess student satisfaction with virtual-problem-based learning compared to the “traditional and in presence” clinical training.The COVID-19 global pandemic emergency forced us to replace the “traditional and in presence” clinical, pre-graduating, veterinary medical training with clinical virtual-problem-based learning (v-PBL). This prospective cross-sectional case-control study aimed to evaluate the students’ perception of the v-PBLs compared to the traditional veterinary clinical training (t-VCT). The t-VCT consisted of supervised management of clinical cases admitted at the Veterinary Teaching Hospital and in the field. The v-PBL consisted of genuine clinical cases shared by tutors throughout an online platform. A survey was delivered to all the fifth-year students who completed the t-VCT or the v-PBL. The survey was completed by 49% of the students. Overall student satisfaction regarding the training experiences was high in both groups, but it was less in the v-PBL than in the t-VCT group. The students of the v-PBL group perceived that they could not improve their practical clinical skills through online sessions, and they emphasized how it could be employed as support for traditional practical activities. All the students are satisfied with the supervision and considered the training correctly focused on relevant learning objectives and the task clearly explained. Stimulating the integration of knowledge and lifelong learning skills replicating life experiences the v-PBLs represented an attractive curricular alternative for veterinary education.

Development and validation of a composed canine simulator for advanced veterinary laparoscopic training.

The development of innovative simulation models for veterinary laparoscopic surgery training is a priority today. This study aimed to describe a didactic simulation tool for the training of total laparoscopic gastropexy (TLG) with intracorporeal sutures in dogs. CALMA Veterinary Lap-trainer composite simulator (CLVTS) was developed from a plaster cast of 2 Great Dane canines mimicking the space and the correct position to carry out a TLG. After video instruction, 16 veterinarians with different degrees of experience in minimally invasive surgery (Experts, n = 6 and intermediates, n = 10) evaluated four sequential simulating TLG with intracorporeal suturing in the CLVTS. Subsequently, they completed an anonymous questionnaire analyzing the realism, usefulness, and educational quality of the simulator. The CLVTS showed a good preliminary acceptance (4.7/5) in terms of the usefulness and adequacy of the exercises that, in the participants' opinion, are appropriate and are related to the difficulty of the TLG. In addition, both experienced and intermediate surgeons gave high marks (4.5/5) to the feeling of realism, design, and practicality. There were no significant differences between the responses of the two groups. The results suggest that the CVLTS has both face and content validity. Where it can be practiced in a structured environment for the development of a total laparoscopic gastropexy with intracorporeal suture and without compromising patient safety, but still has some limitations of the scope of the study. Further studies are needed to establish the ability to assess or measure technical skills, including the degree of transferability to the actual surgical environment.

Determination of poultry breeder's knowledge level of diagnosis and therapy techniques of Newcastle disease in Thiqar Governorate and their correlation with some parameters

This study aimed at determining the poultry breeder's knowledge level of diagnosis and therapy techniques of Newcastle disease in Thiqar Governorate and their correlation with some parameters. In this work we depended on personal interview for data collection related to the research. The society under research in clouded all poultry breeders in Thiqar governorate which constitute (300) breeders. Samples were picked randomly in ration (10%) with sample volume (30 breeders). Each percentage, mean, standard deviation and correlation coefficient (Pearson) were used in this study. Data were analyzed using statistical program SPSS. Results showed a relatively lowered knowledge levels and the positive correlation between poultry breeder knowledge level and the following parameters (age, education level, number of farms, experience in poultry field, and training courses. Based in those findings, this study recommends enhancement of the veterinary guidance, establishing seminars and training courses, as well as strengthening the relations low –priced of the relation of between veterinary centers and poultry breeders, also providing them with medication and vaccines at the right time ,This will be very important for the eradication of diseases and elimination of economical looses.

Veterinary communication can influence farmer Change Talk and can be modified following brief Motivational Interviewing training.

Current veterinary communication skills training often focuses on the strategies necessary to successfully transfer information and promote shared decision making rather than inspiring client motivation to engage in behaviour change(s). One evidence-based communication methodology with a specific focus on enhancing conversations about change is Motivational Interviewing (MI), which is perceived by veterinarians to be highly relevant to their profession. We examined whether veterinarians who experienced brief (4–5 hours) MI training (BMIT) were able to change their communication behaviours to be more MI consistent. Fourteen veterinarians recorded 31 veterinary herd health consultations before (n = 15) and after (n = 16) BMIT to allow pre-post intervention analysis of veterinarian and farmer verbal behaviour. Additionally, using a sequential linguistic analysis of 3885 veterinarian-farmer communication events within these consultations, the influence of veterinarians’ verbal behaviours on farmers’ response language was explored. Analysis of veterinary consultations undertaken before and after BMIT revealed that veterinarians changed their communication style to be more consistent with the MI methodology, including more use of reflection statements, a more empathic and partnership-oriented consultation style and greater emphasis on clients’ own language in favour of change goals. In response, farmers contributed more to the conversation and discussed more herd health-related changes. Sequential linguistic analysis suggested that following a veterinarian emphasising something positive about the farmer (e.g. efforts, strengths), seeking collaboration or emphasising farmer choice, farmers were subsequently more likely to express arguments in favour of change (‘Change Talk’), especially phrases indicative of commitment. This study offers the first evidence of the potential value of a BMIT experience to enhance veterinary communication skills, although conscious and disciplined use of MI principles, strategies and Spirit–an ethos of compassion, acceptance, partnership and evocation—requires longer and more complex training. Further studies examining the longevity and consistency of these verbal behaviour changes following BMIT are required.

The Welfare of Fighting Dogs: Wounds, Neurobiology of Pain, Legal Aspects and the Potential Role of the Veterinary Profession.

Simple SummaryDog fights are cruel and harmful events which have a clear impact on animal welfare. For this reason, many countries have banned these events via statute. However, in some regions of the world they are still legal. Moreover, the enforcement of legal bans can be problematic in countries where they are illegal, and they may still occur. This article provides background information on dog fighting and the welfare implications of it. This includes consideration for the pain inflicted, and its mechanisms of perception and recognition. It also analyzes the injuries and emotions experienced by the animals and considers the profile of the breeders and handlers involved in the activity. Since welfare concerns often extend beyond the animals’ fighting lives, a discussion around the possibilities of reintroduction into suitable environments for these animals is also made. Finally, attention is turned to the role that veterinarians can and should play in dealing with these issues of welfare.Throughout history it has been common to practice activities which significantly impact on animal welfare. Animal fighting, including dogfighting, is a prime example where animals often require veterinary care, either to treat wounds and fractures or to manage pain associated with tissue and where death may even result. Amongst the detrimental health effects arising are the sensory alterations that these injuries cause, which not only include acute or chronic pain but can also trigger a greater sensitivity to other harmful (hyperalgesia) or even innocuous stimuli (allodynia). These neurobiological aspects are often ignored and the erroneous assumption made that the breeds engaged in organized fighting have a high pain threshold or, at least, they present reduced or delayed responses to painful stimuli. However, it is now widely recognized that the damage these dogs suffer is not only physical but psychological, emotional, and sensory. Due to the impact fighting has on canine welfare, it is necessary to propose solution strategies, especially educational ones, i.e., educating people and training veterinarians, the latter potentially playing a key role in alerting people to all dog welfare issues. Therefore, the aim of this review is to describe the risk factors associated with dogfighting generally (dog temperament, age, sex, nutrition, testosterone levels, environment, isolation conditions, socialization, education, or training). A neurobiological approach to this topic is taken to discuss the impact on dog pain and emotion. Finally, a general discussion of the format of guidelines and laws that seek to sanction them is presented. The role that veterinarians can play in advancing dog welfare, rehabilitating dogs, and educating the public is also considered.

Usage of a Non-animal Surrogate model in Veterinary Surgical Education and Training

Usage of a Non-animal Surrogate model in Veterinary Surgical Education and Training

Identification of spayed and neutered cats and dogs: Veterinary training and compliance with practice guidelines

Spay/neuter identification tattoos and ear-tipping are simple and cost-effective methods to minimize the likelihood of unnecessary anesthesia and surgery in companion animals or the misidentification of sexually intact animals. This study assessed training of sterilization identifiers in US and Canadian veterinary schools and practitioner compliance with guidelines for identifiers via surveys conducted in 2019. Faculty in all 34 schools responded to the survey, reporting that curricula included sterilization identifiers in 31% of lecture-based training, 75% of spay/neuter laboratory-based training, and 38% of clinical practice-based training. A total of 425 facilities performing spay/neuter reported frequency and technical aspects of sterilization identifiers in client-owned and unowned (shelter, rescue, trap-neuter-return) animals. Facilities encountering large numbers of animals of unknown background, performing a high number of surgeries, or with specialized spay/neuter training were significantly more likely to use identifiers. Only 5% of private practices tattooed all owned animals, and 21% tattooed all unowned animals. In contrast, 80% of shelters and 72% of spay/neuter clinics tattooed all owned animals, and 84% of shelters and 70% of spay/neuter clinics tattooed all unowned animals. Green was the most common tattoo color (97%); the most common placement was near or in the incision for female cats (99%), female dogs (99%), and male dogs (92%), and ventral abdomen in male cats (55%). Enhanced training and implementation of best practices described in professional guidelines for sterilization identifiers are needed throughout the veterinary industry to protect animals from unnecessary procedures and to prevent unintended litters in animals misidentified as previously sterilized.

3D printing for surgical planning of canine oral and maxillofacial surgeries

BackgroundAdvanced diagnostic imaging is an essential part of preoperative planning for oral and maxillofacial surgery in veterinary patients. 3-dimensional (3D) printed models and surgical guides generated from diagnostic imaging can provide a deeper understanding of the complex maxillofacial anatomy, including relevant spatial relationships. Additionally, patient-specific 3D printed models allow surgeons and trainees to better examine anatomical features through tactile and visuospatial feedback allowing for improved preoperative planning, intraoperative guidance, and enhanced trainee education. Furthermore, these models facilitate discussions with pet owners, allowing for improved owner understanding of pathology, and educated decision-making regarding treatment.Case presentationOur case series consists of three 3D printed models segmented from computed tomography (CT) and cone beam CT (CBCT) and fabricated via desktop vat polymerization for preoperative planning and intraoperative guidance for resection of maxillary osteosarcoma, mandibular reconstruction after mandibulectomy, and gap arthroplasty for temporomandibular joint ankylosis in dogs.ConclusionsWe illustrate multiple benefits and indications for 3D printing in veterinary oral and maxillofacial surgery. 3D printed models facilitate the understanding of complex surgical anatomy, creating an opportunity to assess the spatial relationship of the relevant structures. It facilitates individualized surgical planning by allowing surgeons to tailor and augment the surgical plan by examining patient-specific anatomy and pathology. Surgical steps may also be simulated in advance, including planning of osteotomy lines, and pre-contouring of titanium plates for reconstruction. Additionally, a 3D printed model and surgical guide also serve as invaluable intraoperative reference and guidance. Furthermore, 3D printed models have the potential to improve veterinary resident and student training as well as pet owner understanding and communication regarding the condition of their pets, treatment plan and intended outcomes.

Use of Actors or Peers as Simulated Clients in Veterinary Communication Training.

Using simulated clients is an effective teaching method for training and assessing communication skills in veterinary education. The aim of this study is to evaluate the use of actors and peers in communication skills training in veterinary medicine. For this purpose, the subjective perception of the use of actors was assessed in a first study using a paper-based self-evaluation survey. In a second study, different groups of veterinary students who trained their communication skills with actors or peers were compared in an electronic Objective Structured Clinical Examination (eOSCE) assessment with regard to their outcomes of communication proficiency. All participants reported the actors to be helpful and supportive in learning communication skills. Above all, participants highly rated the achieved authenticity when using actors as well as feedback sessions. Regarding the comparison of actors and peers as teaching methods, no significant difference in the performance of veterinary students in an eOSCE was identified. Despite the lack of objective evidence, both methods may be considered valuable and accepted teaching tools. Training with peers gives students an opportunity to learn how to conduct structured history interviews and to understand pet owners' motives at an early stage of undergraduate veterinary training. Change of perspective is considered a positive training element. However, when portraying authentic and standardized emotions and reactions and giving formative feedback based on the pet owners' internal perspectives, actors are beneficial for training advanced veterinary students and graduates in difficult conversation topics.

The frequency of tail damage amongst cows from a sample of New Zealand dairy farms participating in an animal welfare programme

ABSTRACT Aim To explore factors associated with the frequency of tail damage in dairy cows on 29 New Zealand farms participating in an animal welfare monitoring programme. Materials and methods Herd-level tail score data were collected at the cow level and then summarised at the herd level as counts for each lactation over the period 1 June 2014 to 31 May 2018. A cow’s tail was considered damaged if there was evidence of any injury that deformed the anatomical structure involving either bone or soft tissue and could include loss of use. There were four categories for tail scoring. Fracture or dislocation of tail bones was considered as a deviation (score 1). When the tail had been docked above the top of the cow’s udder, this was considered as docked short tail (score 2). When there was evidence of soft tissue trauma (score 3) or bone damage but no fracture (score 4), this was recorded as damaged (other). Tails were scored for each whole dairy herd. Tail scoring was performed by trained veterinarians or veterinary technicians. The primary outcome variable was counts of deviated tails (DT). Other outcome variables were docked short, damaged (other), and total tail injuries (TTI) which was a summation of all tail injuries. The potential predictor variables were area, season, farm, region, replacement rate, and herd size. A mixed-effects negative binomial or Poisson regression was fitted to the count data. Results A total of 29 farms contributed data for tail scoring, with 54,831 cows individually scored. The unadjusted regional prevalence of TTI ranged from 3.5% (64/1,835) in Taranaki in 2014–2015 to 28.7% (1,434/4,988) in Southland/Otago in 2017–2018. The unadjusted regional herd prevalence of DT ranged from 2.1% (280/6,862) in Taranaki (2014–2015) to 13.2% (4,627/30,165) in Southland/South Otago (2017–2018). The incident rate ratio (IRR) of DT in 2015–2016 was 1.74 (95% CI = 1.20–2.53; p = 0.003) times the incident rate for the reference group (2014–2015). The IRR for TTI in 2015–2016 was 1.70 (95% CI = 1.60–1.81; p = 0.001) times the incident rate for the reference group (2014–2015). Conclusions and clinical relevance This is the first quantitative study of the frequency of tail damage within New Zealand dairy farms and whilst variable between regions, it indicates that the frequency is increasing. Opportunities exist to better understand the causes of tail injuries and to improve animal welfare.

Dairy herd health management activities in relation to training of veterinarians in motivational interviewing

Communication has been identified as one constraint for cattle veterinarians to act as proactive health consultants. Motivational Interviewing (MI), an evidence-based client-centered communication methodology, may therefore be a useful tool in veterinary herd health management (VHHM). The aim of this exploratory study was to investigate associations between training in MI and different measures of performance in VHHM. MI skills of 36 Swedish cattle veterinarians randomly assigned to two groups - MI veterinarians (n = 18) who had received six-months training in MI and control veterinarians (n = 18) who were not trained - were assessed using the MI Treatment Integrity coding system. Skills were categorized as untrained, trained_poor, trained_near moderate and trained_moderate. Veterinarians each visited two to six cattle farms for VHHM consultations and revisited the same farms three to six months later to document implementation of recommendations. A gamma model and logistic or ordered logistic regression models were used to evaluate associations between MI training and performance measured as: a) proportion of consultations resulting in written herd health plans, b) proportion of recommended measures fully or partially implemented, c) Likert scores of different estimates of client satisfaction and d) total time during 6 months allocated to VHHM visits on cattle farms. We found no evidence of any significant effects of MI training on the eight performance variables analyzed. However, a pattern of numerically higher values (better performance) in trained veterinarians with poor or moderate MI skills than in untrained veterinarians was observed in most variables. Clients were highly satisfied with veterinarians’ attitude, competence and time efficiency. Farms implemented a median of 66.7% (interquartile range: 50–100) of the measures partially or fully. Veterinarians allocated little time to VHHM visits (median: 2.2; interquartile range: 0.65–4.1 h per week of full-time work within cattle). Veterinarians with moderate skills spent 2.14 times more time on VHHM visits than untrained veterinarians, but the confidence interval was wide (0.88–5.21). The pattern of numerically higher values in trained veterinarians supported findings from other studies in the same project indicating a positive effect of MI training on VHHM. Our observations suggest a considerable potential to increase veterinarians’ engagement in VHHM.

From veterinary training in Iran to a management role with 400 employees

Hadi Boharni was recently appointed as a regional director of veterinary group Linnaeus. Here, he describes his career path, from his training in the Middle East to his present role.

Knowledge, attitudes, and practices of veterinary professionals towards ticks and tick-borne diseases in Illinois

ObjectiveA lack of standardized surveillance or reporting of tick-borne diseases (TBDs) in Illinois creates uncertainty for veterinarians regarding TBDs occurring within their practice geography or which TBDs may be encroaching on their area from neighboring territories. Therefore, the objective of this study was to gauge the knowledge, attitudes, and practices of veterinary professionals in Southern and Central Illinois to establish a foundation for targeting educational and outreach programs that address knowledge gaps. Sample72 veterinary professionals in Central and Southern Illinois. ProceduresAn online knowledge, attitudes, and practices survey was distributed to veterinary professionals in Southern and Central Illinois. Poisson regression analyses were conducted to determine factors associated with knowledge scores and the estimated number of TBD cases diagnosed. ResultsKnowledge scores were significantly higher among veterinary practitioners with recent (within the last 5 years) training on TBD. The number of cases of TBD diagnosed was higher among those reporting concern about TBD, and among those who routinely test for TBDs. The types of diseases diagnosed were heavily influenced by the diagnostic method used. Clinical relevanceThis study paints a cohesive picture of human factors associated with diagnosing veterinary diseases and TBD prevalence in Southern and Central Illinois. Our results highlight the importance and practical value of veterinary continuing education on ticks and TBDs for both companion animals and public health. Building capacity for training veterinarians in parasitology using partnerships between academia and industry may strengthen the knowledge and understanding of ticks and tick-borne pathogens in the veterinary community.

Using Learning Theories to Develop a Veterinary Student Preparedness Toolkit for Workplace Clinical Training.

Learning theories are abstract descriptions which help us make sense of educational practice. Multiple theories can inform our understanding of a single concept, in this case: veterinary workplace clinical training (WCT), which occurs just prior to students' graduation as competent veterinary surgeons. The competency movement has strongly influenced reforms in veterinary education and is considered important. In reflection of this, the term “preparedness” is operationalised here as a measure of the likelihood that the veterinary student is going to be a competent learner and participant during WCT. Preparedness itself is therefore important because it directly impacts performance. Workplace clinical training is explored through the lenses of cognitivist, social constructivist and socio-culturalist learning theories and used to inform student preparedness characteristics (“tools”) in terms of their behaviours, personal attributes, knowledge and skills, and awarenesses to optimise learning and participation. These form a new conceptual framework—the “Preparedness Toolkit.”

Data on Gastrointestinal and Claw Disorders as Possible Predictive Factors in Beef Cattle and Veal Calves’ Health and Welfare

Today, consumers have a growing concern about the welfare of beef cattle, and specific schemes have been proposed to assess their wellbeing during the fattening. On-farm assessments can be integrated and partially replaced by animal-based measures recorded postmortem at the abattoir. Postmortem organ inspection data are of value, as several lesions can be reflective of subclinical diseases not easily detected in the live animal. The present data collection aimed to evaluate the slaughterhouse prevalence and location of hoof, gastric, hepatic, and liver lesions in beef cattle and veal calves and retrospectively associated this information with the animals’ housing and feeding management systems. Individual data on gastrointestinal and claw disorders of beef cattle (bulls and heifers) and veal calves were collected through a postmortem inspection by trained veterinarians directly at the slaughter line. Around 15 animals/batch, belonging to 97 batches of young bulls, 56 batches of beef heifers, and 41 batches of veal calves were inspected in three slaughterhouses located in Northern Italy during 30 sampling days, and information on the animals’ rearing systems were gathered a posteriori from farmer interviews. The implementation of this recording system should promote a continuous improvement of beef cattle management from a health and welfare perspective.

Strengthening the global one health workforce: Veterinarians in CDC-supported field epidemiology training programs

BackgroundEffective prevention, detection, and response to disease threats at the human-animal-environment interface rely on a multisectoral, One Health workforce. Since 2009, the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) has supported Field Epidemiology Training Programs (FETPs) to train veterinarians and veterinary paraprofessionals (VPPs) alongside their human health counterparts in the principles of epidemiology, disease surveillance, and outbreak investigations. We aim to describe and evaluate characteristics of CDC-supported FETPs enrolling veterinarians/VPPs to understand these programs contribution to the strengthening of the global One Health workforce. MethodsWe surveyed staff from CDC-supported FETPs that enroll veterinarians and VPPs regarding cohort demographics, graduate retention, and veterinary and One Health relevant curriculum inclusion. Descriptive data was analyzed using R Version 3.5.1. ResultsForty-seven FETPs reported veterinarian/VPP trainees, 68% responded to our questionnaire, and 64% reported veterinary/VPP graduates in 2017. The veterinary/VPP graduates in 2017 made up 12% of cohorts. Programs reported 74% of graduated veterinarians/VPPs retained employment within national ministries of agriculture. Common veterinary and One Health curriculum topics were specimen collection and submission (93%), zoonotic disease (90%) and biosafety practices (83%); least covered included animal/livestock production and health promotion (23%) and transboundary animal diseases (27%). Less than half (41%) of programs reported the curriculum being sufficient for veterinarians/VPPs to perform animal health specific job functions, despite most programs being linked to the ministry of agriculture (75%) and providing veterinary-specific mentorship (63%). ConclusionsOur results indicate that FETPs provide valuable training opportunities for animal health sector professionals, strengthening the epidemiology capacity within the ministries retaining them. While veterinary/VPP trainees could benefit from the inclusion of animal-specific curricula needed to fulfill their job functions, at present, FETPs continue to serve as multisectoral, competency-based, in-service training important in strengthening the global One Health workforce by jointly training the animal and human health sectors.