UF CVM VETS team prepares rescued bear and her cub for release back into the Osceola National Forest after being treated for burns received during the 2007 Bugaboo fires in North Florida. (more photo's below)
VETS|Veterinary Emergency Treatment Service
The University of Florida (UF) College of Veterinary Medicine (CVM) is a lead member of the Florida SART. (State Agriculture Response Team) As a state resource, UF CVM has been tasked under declared emergencies to assist the state Emergency Support Function 17 response to animal and agricultural disasters.
In partnership with the Florida Veterinary Medical Association (FVMA) and the Florida Division of Agriculture and Consumer Services (FDACS), UF CVM created the VETS (Veterinary Emergency Treatment Service).
The formalization of a team was the results of several "ad hoc" missions assigned to UF CVM during the 2004 Hurricane season. The VETS team is an "all hazards, all animals, all the time" disaster response unit composed of volunteer veterinarians, technicians and students who are based at the college.
The VETS team equipment and training has been funded primarily through grants and donations - how you can help. (see some training photo's below)
The VETS team is capable of deploying up to twelve team members and is self contained for food, fuel and medical supplies - enough to last several days.
The VETS team is a quick strike resource with the key objectives of 1) providing a quick assessment of the veterinary infrastructure; 2) assisting operational practices with logistical support and mutual aid; 3) establishing a self contained veterinary care triage and aid station; 4) providing advanced technical rescue for large animals.
How You Can Help
Tax deductible donations to support the VETS team equipment and training needs can be made through the University of Florida Foundation or through the Florida Veterinary Medical Foundation. Both are 501(c)(3) charities under the IRS code.
Additionally, if you are a veterinarian or veterinary technician and are willing to volunteer to assist the Florida State Agriculture Response team during a declared emergency, you can join VET Corps.
VETS Rescuers Prepare
VETS Connecting the Anderson Sling
VETS Training - Two Person Haul System
Vets Large Animal Floatation Training with "Moose"
Click here to link to an interesting VETS article
VETS Team Deployments
- Hurricane Charley - 2004
- Hurricane Frances - 2004
- Hurricane Jeanne - 2004
- Hurricane Wilma - 2005
- Equine Herpes - South Florida - 2006
- BugaBoo Fires - North Florida - 2007
For More Information
Please contact John Haven, CVM Director and VETS team leader.
Donors and Supporters
American Association of Equine Practitioners Foundation
American Kennel Club Companion Animal Recovery (AKC-CAR)
American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals
American Veterinary Medical Foundation (AVMF)
Florida Quarter Horse Association
Florida Veterinary Medical Association
Florida Veterinary Medical Foundation
Humane Society of the United States