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Read the latest updates and messages from Veterinarians Without Borders. 

VETS Volunteer Voices: Business Plans and Bold Futures for Ghana’s Women Farmers

VETS Volunteer Voices: Business Plans and Bold Futures for Ghana’s Women Farmers

Posted Jun 25th, 2025

#VETSVolunteerVoices aims to bring you stories of our passionate VETS program volunteers from the field. This blog was written by Guy Audet, a Business Development Advisor who supported our VETS program partner, WIPVaC-Apex, in Ghana from March to May 2025.

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Farming for the Future: How VETS Is Empowering Kenyan Farmers to Grow, Adapt, and Thrive

Farming for the Future: How VETS Is Empowering Kenyan Farmers to Grow, Adapt, and Thrive

Posted Jun 24th, 2025

In Meru County, Kenya, Community One Health Champion Ann Kagwira is improving her farm’s productivity and herd health through ongoing collaboration with VETS volunteers and Meru Dairy — demonstrating how long-term support and continuous learning can drive lasting change for farmers and their communities.

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A Letter from Charmaine Brett: A Moment of Reflection and Momentum

A Letter from Charmaine Brett: A Moment of Reflection and Momentum

Posted Jun 23rd, 2025

As VWB’s Executive Director, Charmaine Brett, prepares to step down in September, she reflects on four years of transformative global work, celebrating milestones in animal care, community resilience, and One Health initiatives. With its bold 2025–2030 Strategic Plan, VWB remains committed to advancing its mission and recruiting new leadership to build on this momentum.

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Strengthening local capacity: One Health research meets community care in Gjoa Haven

Strengthening local capacity: One Health research meets community care in Gjoa Haven

Posted Jun 20th, 2025

When Hannah Liao, a Master of Science student at the Ontario Veterinary College, traveled to Gjoa Haven with Veterinarians Without Borders, she brought more than just research; she brought a vision for sustainable, community-led veterinary care. Her thesis on Community Animal Health Worker programs explores how local training and a One Health approach can transform access to animal health services in Canada’s North.

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Coordinating Compassion: VWB Responds to Manitoba's Wildfire Emergency

Coordinating Compassion: VWB Responds to Manitoba's Wildfire Emergency

Posted Jun 12th, 2025

As wildfires displace families across Manitoba and other areas of Canada, Veterinarians Without Borders North America is stepping in to ensure animals aren't left behind. Working with over 10 partner organizations, VWB is coordinating emergency shelters, veterinary care, and food deliveries—already supporting more than 650 animals in affected communities.

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VETS Volunteer Voices: Mapping the Future of Organic Farming in Cambodia

VETS Volunteer Voices: Mapping the Future of Organic Farming in Cambodia

Posted Jun 12th, 2025

#VETSVolunteerVoices aims to bring you the stories of our passionate VETS program volunteers from the field. Meet Ian Parfitt, a GIS Mapping Advisor who spent three months in Cambodia (January–April 2025) supporting organic agriculture and digital transformation with our local partner, AVSF Cambodia.

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More than Milk: How One Kenyan Woman Is Cultivating Leadership, Livelihood, and Lasting Change

More than Milk: How One Kenyan Woman Is Cultivating Leadership, Livelihood, and Lasting Change

Posted Jun 10th, 2025

Megan Sylka, Senior Program Officer at VWB, shares how her recent visit to Kenya revealed the powerful ripple effects of the VETS program—highlighting how Community One Health Champion Shelmith Mwai is transforming her dairy farm, her family dynamics, and her community through knowledge, leadership, and collaboration.

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From Farm to Fork: Why One Health Matters for Food Safety

From Farm to Fork: Why One Health Matters for Food Safety

Posted Jun 6th, 2025

This article examines how a One Health approach can transform food safety systems by addressing the interconnected health of people, animals, and the environment—highlighting the importance of cross-sector collaboration, innovations like Canada’s CFSIN, and global strategies to mitigate risks such as antimicrobial resistance, climate change, and zoonotic disease.

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Veterinarians Without Borders North America Announces Leadership Transition

Veterinarians Without Borders North America Announces Leadership Transition

Posted May 30th, 2025

VWB announces the upcoming departure of Executive Director Charmaine Brett, who will step down in September after four years of visionary leadership. As Charmaine begins a new chapter, VWB remains grounded in its mission and Strategic Plan—continuing to lead global One Health efforts that improve lives, protect livelihoods, and strengthen communities.

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Why animal care matters now more than ever on Ukraine’s frontlines

Why animal care matters now more than ever on Ukraine’s frontlines

Posted May 20th, 2025

Across war-torn regions in Ukraine the destruction stretches for kilometres. Homes are reduced to rubble, communities have been displaced, and many animals, often the forgotten victims of war, are left to fend for themselves in dangerous, unstable conditions. With your help, along with our local partners, we can ensure that help is there for animals that need it most.

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Webinar Replay: VETS Volunteer Perspectives on Community-Led Climate and Ecosystem Solutions

Webinar Replay: VETS Volunteer Perspectives on Community-Led Climate and Ecosystem Solutions

Posted May 20th, 2025

Watch a replay of our World Environment Day 2025 webinar which showcased the voices of VWB’s VETS volunteers working alongside local partners to advance climate-smart agriculture, ecosystem restoration, and One Health solutions. The panelists shared community-led approaches, environmental challenges, and practical innovations from Cambodia, Kenya, and Laos.

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From Soil to Systems: AGROW’s Lasting Impact on Women and One Health in Cambodia

From Soil to Systems: AGROW’s Lasting Impact on Women and One Health in Cambodia

Posted May 15th, 2025

From climate-resilient farming to women-led food systems, this impact report explores the achievements of the AGROW program in rural Cambodia. Implemented by VWB from 2022 to 2024 and funded by Global Affairs Canada, AGROW empowered over 21,000 individuals—primarily women—through sustainable agriculture, animal health services, and a holistic One Health approach.

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Voices from Myanmar: Caring for Women, Animals, and Lives in Crisis

Voices from Myanmar: Caring for Women, Animals, and Lives in Crisis

Posted May 9th, 2025

This blog shares firsthand accounts from VWB’s earthquake response in Myanmar, highlighting how local partners are delivering urgent care to people and animals alike, and demonstrating the impact of a locally led, One Health approach in the midst of a humanitarian crisis.

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Beyond the Storm: Why Disaster Preparedness Must Include Animals

Beyond the Storm: Why Disaster Preparedness Must Include Animals

Posted May 8th, 2025

This article explores the critical importance of integrating animal welfare into disaster preparedness, drawing on current research, offering practical strategies, and highlighting how VWB’s One Health initiatives build resilience by strengthening animal health systems and safeguarding livelihoods before and after disasters strike.

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Goats, Grit, and Growth: A Sustainable Dairy Model in Perechepyne, Ukraine

Goats, Grit, and Growth: A Sustainable Dairy Model in Perechepyne, Ukraine

Posted May 1st, 2025

This article explores how VWB’s goat farming and cheese-making initiative in Ukraine supported rural families in rebuilding livelihoods during conflict—highlighting sustainable agriculture, community-led training, and a replicable model for economic resilience.

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Veterinarians Without Borders Congratulates Prime Minister Mark Carney on Election Win

Veterinarians Without Borders Congratulates Prime Minister Mark Carney on Election Win

Posted Apr 29th, 2025

VWB congratulates Prime Minister Mark Carney on his election victory, emphasizing the importance of continued leadership on global One Health challenges, and reaffirming its commitment to strengthening animal health, food security, and resilient communities worldwide.

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More Than Medicine: How Veterinarians Strengthen Communities and Ecosystems

More Than Medicine: How Veterinarians Strengthen Communities and Ecosystems

Posted Apr 25th, 2025

This article explores the diverse and often underrecognized roles of veterinarians within a One Health framework, highlighting how their work in animal health, food safety, wildlife conservation, and climate adaptation strengthens communities, safeguards ecosystems, and supports global health resilience.

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Veterinarians on the Frontlines: How Animal Immunization Safeguards Public Health and Livelihoods

Veterinarians on the Frontlines: How Animal Immunization Safeguards Public Health and Livelihoods

Posted Apr 24th, 2025

This article examines the vital role of veterinarians in immunization and disease prevention, highlighting how VWB’s One Health approach — through vaccination campaigns, CAHW training, and real-time disease surveillance — protects public health, supports farmer livelihoods, and strengthens animal health systems in vulnerable communities.

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Dog Bite Prevention Week: Protecting people, animals, and communities in the far North

Dog Bite Prevention Week: Protecting people, animals, and communities in the far North

Posted Apr 14th, 2025

In remote areas, like the far North, dog bites are more prevalent. This Dog Bite Prevention Week, we're raising awareness about how reading dog body language and improving access to veterinary care can reduce bites—and prevent the spread of diseases like rabies.

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At the Epicenter: Why Animal Health and a One Health Response are Critical in Myanmar’s Earthquake Crisis

At the Epicenter: Why Animal Health and a One Health Response are Critical in Myanmar’s Earthquake Crisis

Posted Apr 8th, 2025

This blog examines the critical role of animal health in Myanmar’s earthquake response, highlighting the interconnected impacts on people, animals, and livelihoods. It outlines the rationale for a One Health approach and details how VWB is responding through a coordinated, two-phase intervention.

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VETS Volunteer Voices: Strengthening Dairy and Soil Health in Kenya

VETS Volunteer Voices: Strengthening Dairy and Soil Health in Kenya

Posted Apr 8th, 2025

#VETSVolunteerVoices aims to bring you the stories of our passionate VETS program volunteers from the field. Meet Donald Hilborn, an Agricultural Advisor who spent three weeks in rural Kenya (January-February 2025). This is Donald's second VETS volunteer placement in Kenya.

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Veterinarians Without Borders North America Launches Emergency Earthquake Response in Myanmar

Veterinarians Without Borders North America Launches Emergency Earthquake Response in Myanmar

Posted Apr 7th, 2025

Veterinarians Without Borders North America launches an emergency response in Myanmar following the devastating 7.7-magnitude earthquake, partnering with a trusted local organization to deliver urgent cash assistance and protect food security and livelihoods through a One Health approach.

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Beyond the Clinic: Why Veterinarians are Key to Preventing the Next Pandemic

Beyond the Clinic: Why Veterinarians are Key to Preventing the Next Pandemic

Posted Apr 6th, 2025

This article explores the critical role of veterinarians in global health, emphasizing how VWB’s One Health efforts—including veterinary training, community-based service delivery, and workforce development—help prevent pandemics, protect livelihoods, and build resilient animal and public health systems.

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VETS Volunteer Voices: Biosecurity training hatches success for Esther Nyarko's poultry farm in rural Ghana

VETS Volunteer Voices: Biosecurity training hatches success for Esther Nyarko's poultry farm in rural Ghana

Posted Mar 24th, 2025

#VETSVolunteerVoices #aims to brings you stories of our passionate VETS program volunteers from the field. This blog was written by Karissa Gall, a Communications and Gender Advisor who supported our VETS program partner, WIPVaC-Apex, in Ghana earlier this year (January-February 2025).

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The Results Are In: Meet the Animals & Ales Pet Photo Contest Winners

The Results Are In: Meet the Animals & Ales Pet Photo Contest Winners

Posted Mar 19th, 2025

The Animals & Ales Pet Photo Contest has officially come to a close! Over $170,000 raised for animals in need.

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Veterinarians Without Borders North America announces winners of highest grossing Animals and Ales Photo Contest!

Veterinarians Without Borders North America announces winners of highest grossing Animals and Ales Photo Contest!

Posted Mar 19th, 2025

Veterinarians Without Borders North America (VWB) is excited to announce the winners of its Animals and Ales Pet Photo Contest. Over $170,000 was raised for animals in need.

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The High Price of Parasites: What’s at Stake for Farmers and Food Security

The High Price of Parasites: What’s at Stake for Farmers and Food Security

Posted Mar 19th, 2025

This article highlights the hidden impact of parasites in livestock, showcasing how VWB’s One Health initiatives in parasite prevention, veterinary training, and community education help protect farmers’ livelihoods, strengthen food security, and reduce zoonotic disease risks.

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Webinar Replay: Women of VWB - Driving Change in One Health Around the World

Webinar Replay: Women of VWB - Driving Change in One Health Around the World

Posted Mar 14th, 2025

Watch a replay of our webinar, held on Thursday, March 27, in recognition of Women’s Month 2025, to spotlight the diverse voices of women in VWB’s programs who are driving change in veterinary care, animal health, and One Health initiatives around the world. The panelists shared their experiences, challenges, and innovative solutions.

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VETS Volunteer Voices: Strengthening Climate Resilience and Gender Equality in Laos

VETS Volunteer Voices: Strengthening Climate Resilience and Gender Equality in Laos

Posted Mar 10th, 2025

#VETSVolunteerVoices brings you the stories of our passionate VETS program volunteers from the field. Meet Zainab Baqiri, a Climate Change Advisor who spent four months in Laos (August–November 2024) working with CARE to strengthen climate resilience and adaptation strategies for vulnerable communities.

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VWB North America launches largest-ever Animals & Ales Pet Photo Contest in partnership with 49 breweries across Canada and the U.S.

VWB North America launches largest-ever Animals & Ales Pet Photo Contest in partnership with 49 breweries across Canada and the U.S.

Posted Mar 3rd, 2025

Veterinarians Without Borders North America (VWB) is thrilled to announce the launch of its largest-ever Animals & Ales Pet Photo Contest, bringing together pet lovers and craft beer enthusiasts across Canada and the U.S.

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Reflections from Ukraine: VWB's Ivan Zenar shares his experiences from the field

Reflections from Ukraine: VWB's Ivan Zenar shares his experiences from the field

Posted Feb 28th, 2025

In the heart of war-torn Ukraine, where resilience is woven into the fabric of daily life, Veterinarians Without Borders North America's (VWB) Ivan Zenar recently embarked on a trip to help assess the impact of ongoing animal health initiatives.

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Massive Foreign Aid Cuts Threaten Lives, Livelihoods, and Global Health—Veterinarians Without Borders North America Responds

Massive Foreign Aid Cuts Threaten Lives, Livelihoods, and Global Health—Veterinarians Without Borders North America Responds

Posted Feb 27th, 2025

Veterinarians Without Borders North America responds to the termination of 10,000 foreign aid contracts, emphasizing the devastating impact on vulnerable communities, the risks to global One Health efforts, and its continued commitment to strengthening animal health, food security, and livelihoods.

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VETS Volunteer Voices: Bridging Gender, Livelihoods, and One Health in Laos

VETS Volunteer Voices: Bridging Gender, Livelihoods, and One Health in Laos

Posted Feb 23rd, 2025

#VETSVolunteerVoices brings you the stories of our passionate VETS program volunteers from the field. Meet Dr. Alina Cota-Merlo (DVM), a Gender and Livelihood Advisor who spent three months in Laos (August – November 2024), supporting gender equality, sustainable agriculture, and community-led development.

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From Migration to Resilience: How Climate-Smart Farming Transformed Yoeurn and Chhaem’s Future

From Migration to Resilience: How Climate-Smart Farming Transformed Yoeurn and Chhaem’s Future

Posted Feb 13th, 2025

Danielle Legault, Program Officer at VWB, shares how climate-smart agriculture is transforming lives in Cambodia. Through AGROW and VETS, farmers like Yoeurn Yorn and Chhaem Chhoeurn are improving their livelihoods and leading their communities in building resilience against climate change.

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VETS Volunteer Voices: Cultivating Soil Health and Sustainable Farming in Cambodia

VETS Volunteer Voices: Cultivating Soil Health and Sustainable Farming in Cambodia

Posted Feb 11th, 2025

#VETSVolunteerVoices aims to bring you the stories of our passionate VETS program volunteers from the field. Meet Harold Rudy, a Sustainable Agriculture Advisor who spent 3 months in rural Cambodia (September - December 2024).

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"The Power of One Action" - Enter the IDW 2025 Social Media Contest!

Posted Feb 5th, 2025

In celebration of International Development Week (IDW) 2025, the Volunteer Cooperation Program (including VWB) invites all Canadians to showcase their impact through a social media contest. Enter today! Share your contributions to social, economic, and environmental change — at home and abroad.

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Veterinarians Without Borders helps provide access to animal health in Alaska

Veterinarians Without Borders helps provide access to animal health in Alaska

Posted Feb 5th, 2025

In early January, team members from Veterinarians Without Borders North America (VWB) made an inaugural visit to the North, heading to the snowy state of Alaska.

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A Champion of Change: Mercy Mwangi’s Impact as a Community One Health Champion

A Champion of Change: Mercy Mwangi’s Impact as a Community One Health Champion

Posted Jan 30th, 2025

Mercy's journey from smallholder farmer to Community One Health Champion underscores the transformative power of VETS, equipping women with the tools to excel in the dairy industry while fostering sustainable rural development.

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Animal Welfare: A Cornerstone of Livestock Production and Global Well-Being

Animal Welfare: A Cornerstone of Livestock Production and Global Well-Being

Posted Jan 24th, 2025

This article highlights the importance of animal welfare in livestock production, showcasing how VWB’s initiatives in veterinary training, disease prevention, and farmer education promote humane practices and build resilience against zoonotic risks.

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Veterinarians Without Borders North America responds to southern California wildfires, helping animals and pet guardians evacuating blazes

Veterinarians Without Borders North America responds to southern California wildfires, helping animals and pet guardians evacuating blazes

Posted Jan 16th, 2025

In response to the wildfires that continue across Southern California, Veterinarians Without Borders North America (VWB) is providing critical, on-the-ground support.

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Stories From Around The World

VETS Volunteer Voices: Business Plans and Bold Futures for Ghana’s Women Farmers

VETS Volunteer Voices: Business Plans and Bold Futures for Ghana’s Women Farmers

Posted Jun 25th, 2025

#VETSVolunteerVoices aims to bring you stories of our passionate VETS program volunteers from the field. This blog was written by Guy Audet, a Business Development Advisor who supported our VETS program partner, WIPVaC-Apex, in Ghana from March to May 2025.

Read more

Farming for the Future: How VETS Is Empowering Kenyan Farmers to Grow, Adapt, and Thrive

Farming for the Future: How VETS Is Empowering Kenyan Farmers to Grow, Adapt, and Thrive

Posted Jun 24th, 2025

In Meru County, Kenya, Community One Health Champion Ann Kagwira is improving her farm’s productivity and herd health through ongoing collaboration with VETS volunteers and Meru Dairy — demonstrating how long-term support and continuous learning can drive lasting change for farmers and their communities.

Read more

A Letter from Charmaine Brett: A Moment of Reflection and Momentum

A Letter from Charmaine Brett: A Moment of Reflection and Momentum

Posted Jun 23rd, 2025

As VWB’s Executive Director, Charmaine Brett, prepares to step down in September, she reflects on four years of transformative global work, celebrating milestones in animal care, community resilience, and One Health initiatives. With its bold 2025–2030 Strategic Plan, VWB remains committed to advancing its mission and recruiting new leadership to build on this momentum.

Read more

  • I have seen first-hand the benefits of capacity building and gender empowerment for smallholder livestock farmers, and stakeholders in the livestock sector.
    - Dr. Shauna Richards

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