STUDY ON THE LEVEL OF DISASTER PREPAREDNESS AMONG VETERINARY PRACTITIONERS

Abstract

PURPOSE: This study was focused on veterinary practitioners in Bulgaria with the aim to investigate and present their level of preparedness for disaster response and continuance of professional activities after disaster events. METHODS: A sociological survey through a questionnaire with open and closed questions was sent to veterinarians throughout the country personally or via e-mail. RESULTS: Veterinary practitioners in Bulgaria are not legally engaged in disaster prevention, excluding the prevention of contagious animal diseases. At the same, time veterinarians could assist the population not only in case of biological contamination but also in any crisis situation caused by natural, technical, and human factors. The study showed that one-third (34.38%, n=11) of the respondents had supplied their practices with emergency equipment, while 75% (n=24) of them had secured the continuity of communications. Another 21.88 % (n=7) of respondents had arranged in advance a meeting place for staff after evacuation to meet and plan the reorganization of their activities. Only 3.13% (n=1) of the respondents had conducted simulated evacuations in arranged training. CONCLUSIONS: The findings could be used for drafting guidelines and teaching materials for professional training, enhancing the veterinary practitioners to perform more effectively in emergencies and thus raise the disaster resilience of the community as a whole.