Representative Andra Samoa says she has received reports that vaccines and supplies at the Veterinarian Clinic at the Department of Agriculture have nearly run out.
She sought answers from the Director of Health Motusa Tuileama Nua regarding the hiring of a US veterinarian.
Only a US certified vet can order vaccines and supplies that are approved by the US Drug Enforcement Agency for the treatment of animals.
Testifying at the Department of Health budget hearing earlier this week, Motusa said they are trying to seek funds from he COVID 19 grants to hire a US certified vet.
He said the normal salary for a qualified veterinarian the US is $80,000 to $120,000. And how does the hiring of a vet qualify for COVID-19 funding?
According to Motusa, pets provide company and friendship for the elderly and during the COVID- 19 pandemic this relationship becomes even more important.
The pets provide therapeutic relief for senior citizens he told lawmaker.
It is therefore important to have a vet to look after the health of dogs and cats. Besides he said if there’s an outbreak form animals it can become a public health issue affecting human lives.
