Veterinarians are generally regarded as some of the most trusted health professionals and members of a community. Clients value your expertise about animal health, but they might seek your recommendations for other issues, including their own health. These conversations might not always be easy or comfortable. Luckily, resources are available when it comes to COVID-19 and vaccines.¹

During November 2021, the American Veterinary Medical Association (AVMA) launched a national education and awareness campaign to encourage veterinary teams, their clients, and the general public to get vaccinated against the virus that causes COVID-19.² The AVMA developed print, digital, audio, and video tools and resources for veterinary teams to promote vaccination in their communities. Many of the AVMA campaign materials offer multiple versions featuring various animal species, including pigs, so that they are relevant to different audiences.

“Veterinarians are healthcare providers trusted not only by their clients but by the public at large, we understand the power of vaccines, and we have been enlisted as COVID vaccination providers in some areas,” said Dr Arce, a practicing veterinarian in San Juan, Puerto Rico, and president of the AVMA. “We recognize that vaccination is a choice and that not everyone may be able to receive one. But we are uniquely qualified to share the importance of preventing and controlling disease in both animals and people. Protecting public health is part of a veterinarian’s responsibility and appropriate preventive care, including vaccinations, goes a long way towards protecting public health.”

As members of the veterinary medical profession, we vow to protect animal and public health.³ Most people are trying to make the best choices for their families based on the information they have.

As a veterinarian, you can

• Encourage clients to always talk to their family healthcare provider.
• Share facts about infectious disease risks and vaccine safety and efficacy, within the boundaries of your degree, ethics, and knowledge.
• Encourage clients to scrutinize their sources.
• Provide resources for clients to make informed decisions.

The AVMA understands that not every veterinarian will be comfortable discussing COVID-19 or human vaccines. The resource materials are intended to make conversations easier for those who do want to take the opportunity to discuss it with their colleagues and clients.

Visit avma.org/VaccinationTools to view and download materials for your use in your clinics or communities.

References

*1. Talking about COVID-19 vaccination. AVMA. Accessed January 14, 2022. https://www.avma.org/resources-tools/animal-health-and-welfare/covid-19/talking-about-covid-19-vaccination

*2. AVMA launches national awareness campaign to encourage COVID-19 vaccinations. News release. AVMA; November 22, 2021. Accessed January 14, 2022. https://www.avma.org/news/press-releases/avma-launches-national-awareness-campaign-encourage-covid-19-vaccinations

*3. Veterinarian’s Oath. AVMA. Accessed January 14, 2022. https://www.avma.org/resources-tools/avma-policies/veterinarians-oath

* Non-refereed references.

Abbey Canon, DVM, MPH, DACVPM
Director of Public Health and Communications