Description
Dog and Cat Population Management (DCPM) is a multidisciplinary field in which veterinarians play a key role, not only through sterilisation, but also through their contribution to animal health, welfare, disease prevention, population-level interventions and community engagement.
This presentation explores the evolving role of veterinarians in humane and sustainable DCPM, moving from an individual animal-centred approach towards a broader population perspective. It will highlight how veterinary knowledge and skills can contribute to effective Catch-Neuter-Vaccinate-Return (CNVR) programmes, responsible shelter and clinic practices, disease control, animal handling, welfare assessment, data-informed decision-making and collaboration with communities and other stakeholders.
The presentation will also consider the knowledge and skills veterinarians need to work effectively within multidisciplinary DCPM programmes. By looking beyond the surgical aspects of population management, it aims to encourage a broader understanding of the veterinarian’s contribution to creating healthier animal populations, improving welfare outcomes and supporting sustainable population management strategies.
Learning Objectives
- Describe the broader role of veterinarians in humane and sustainable Dog and Cat Population Management (DCPM).
- Recognise how veterinary expertise can contribute to DCPM beyond sterilisation and surgical interventions.
- Identify key veterinary contributions to CNVR, animal welfare, disease prevention, shelter medicine, and population-level health management.
- Understand the importance of multidisciplinary collaboration and the veterinarian’s role within wider DCPM programmes.
- Recognise the link between individual animal care, population health, and sustainable DCPM outcomes.
- Explore the FOUR PAWS Companion Animal e-Learning Hub as a resource for continuous professional learning in DCPM and related topics.
