Veterinary anthropology: Samples from an emerging field.

Area of Science:

• Veterinary Humanities
• Social Sciences
• Anthropology

Background:

• Growing field of veterinary humanities.
• Need for interdisciplinary collaboration between veterinarians and anthropologists.
• Existing research gap in understanding the intersection of animal health, human health, and social life.

Purpose of the Study:

• To propose and define veterinary anthropology as a collaborative field.
• To analyze the role of animal diseases in social life.
• To question conventional notions of animal and human health.

Main Methods:

• Distinguishing three chronological forms of collaboration between veterinarians and anthropologists.
• Integrating anthropological risk perception and local knowledge on zoonoses.
• Viewing animals as actors within security infrastructures.
• Utilizing anthropological attention as a reflexive lens on veterinary expertise.

Main Results:

• Identified three distinct pathways for veterinarian-anthropologist collaboration.
• Highlighted the value of local knowledge and risk perception in zoonoses management.
• Emphasized the emerging role of animals in security infrastructures.
• Recognized the potential for anthropological inquiry to reshape veterinary self-perception.

Conclusions:

• Veterinary anthropology offers a novel framework for interdisciplinary research.
• Collaboration can enhance understanding of animal diseases' societal impact.
• This field encourages a reflexive examination of veterinary practice and expertise.