In a heartwarming display of compassion and dedication, the Texas A&M Veterinary Emergency Team (VET) has been honored with the 2024 NAVC Gives award. This prestigious recognition comes with a $10,000 contribution and celebrates the team’s heroic efforts during the devastating Smokehouse Creek fire in the Texas Panhandle, as well as their ongoing commitment to veterinary education.
When the Smokehouse Creek fire, reported to be the largest in Texas history, scorched over a million acres of land, the Texas A&M VET was quick to respond. NAVC CEO Gene O’Neill highlighted the severity of the situation, noting the extensive injuries and suffering endured by both farm and companion animals across the region. “Texas A&M VET sprang into action during a historic moment, providing critical services for affected animals and support for the community,” O’Neill said. Their rapid and effective response truly embodies the spirit of the NAVC Gives initiative, which aims to acknowledge and support those making significant impacts in the veterinary field and animal lives.
Just two days after the fire outbreak, a dedicated team of 36 faculty, staff, and veterinary students from Texas A&M VET was dispatched to five counties in the northeastern Texas Panhandle. Over the course of 10 days, this resilient team managed to provide essential veterinary care to hundreds of animals. They conducted health checks on 672 cattle and performed detailed examinations on 271 animals, including cats, dogs, goats, and horses, ensuring their well-being amidst the chaos of the natural disaster.
Dr. Debra L. Zoran, the director of VET, expressed profound gratitude for the support from NAVC Gives. “Thanks to the generosity of organizations like NAVC Gives, the Texas A&M VET can respond swiftly to assist the animals and people impacted when disaster strikes,” she said. Dr. Zoran also emphasized the importance of training the next generation of veterinarians in disaster preparedness and response, a critical skill set given the increasing frequency of such events. She noted that the funding not only aids in immediate disaster response but also bolsters their educational missions, preparing future veterinarians to effectively handle similar situations.
The recognition by NAVC Gives highlights the crucial role veterinarians play in not just animal healthcare, but in broader community resilience and recovery during emergencies. For more details on the impactful work being done by the Texas A&M VET and the support provided by NAVC Gives, interested individuals are encouraged to visit the NAVC Gives website. This award not only sheds light on the heroic efforts of veterinary professionals but also underscores the importance of supporting such initiatives that bridge the gap between animal care and community service.
