VETERINARY CARE IN AQUACULTURE

What can aquatic veterinarians do for you and your product? Veterinarians are a critical, and often underutilized, resource in aquaculture production. With the FDA changes to VFDs in 2017, many producers have needed veterinarians where they haven't before. Even if you have no need for a VFD, a relationship with your local aquatic veterinarian can be very beneficial for you and your animals.

Aquatic veterinarians are not a new specialty. Aquaculture veterinarians have been around since the first aquaculture systems were implemented. The specialty has been growing and diversifying, with more veterinarians now available to assist in the treatment of fish species. From private practice to government and everything in between, there is a veterinarian who is available to work with you. The following organizations have been formed to help you find an aquatic veterinarian near you:

World Aquatic Veterinary Medical Association (International) - http://wavma.org

Fish veterinarian database: htttp://aquavetmed.info

American Association of Fish Veterinarians (USA) - http://fishvets.org

Veterinarians can assist with many different aspects of aquaculture production. Though their primary goal is fish health, they can make recommendations for biosecurity and handling protocols, suggest methods to increase yield by minimizing fish stress, and provide yearly inspections in addition to providing medications when necessary. Veterinarians are here to support your business and should be included in production whenever live animals are included.