Lecture for veterinary medicine students in Leipzig: Insights into our work
The aspiring veterinarians were very interested in our working methods, specifically our field research. (Image: Unsplash)
Our project manager Iris Baumgärtner gave the aspiring veterinarians in their ninth semester at the University of Leipzig's Faculty of Veterinary Medicine an insight into animal welfare work. In an online lecture, the students learned about our main areas of focus, how we work, and what it takes to become involved in animal welfare.
The students were particularly interested in the methodology of our research and undercover missions. Many of the participants could not imagine how we work. Iris Baumgärtner therefore gave them a first-hand account of hours or days of observation at collection points and in ports, of accompanying animal transporters across Europe, and of documenting the life and suffering of so-called blood mares.
She also gave a detailed presentation on the origins of our organization, its history and first projects, and our current work. In addition to the specific research work, Iris Baumgärtner also spoke to the participants about the impact and success of our projects.
The students wanted to know more about the challenges faced by animal welfare organizations. Achieving legal and social change for animals is often a lengthy and difficult process—especially in a system where animals are still predominantly viewed as a resource, object, or means to an end. This is an important lesson for aspiring veterinarians.
The exchange with the students was particularly valuable for us. We hope that future veterinarians will see more than science, more than medicine, and more than service in their future profession. Veterinary medicine is a calling—and it means responsibility and commitment to those who have no voice of their own.
