NEW RECRUIT FOR VETERINARY TEAM

catherine-manSenior Veterinary Officer, Catherine Mann (photo attached), arrived on St Helena on Tuesday, 11 October 2016. Catherine is on a three year contract as the Government Veterinary Officer and traditional vet. Her role is to provide care and treatment for all animals, including the tortoises at Plantation. She will also lead on conducting weekly clinics and farm visits, and performing surgery and artificial insemination.

A large part of Catherine’s role is working as the SHG vet which involves, amongst other things, dealing with the import and export of animal products, providing guidance on policy and legislation where appropriate, monitoring welfare and disease threats, and more.

Catherine said:

“As far back as I can remember, I have always wanted to be a vet, as I love being around animals.

 “I am fortunate that my post on St Helena will allow me to combine both working as a government vet and a traditional vet – treating animals, and working together with farmers and owners to improve animal welfare and health. This also includes livestock, as healthy and happy animals are more productive.”

 Catherine graduated from Cambridge University in 2009 and since then has been working as a veterinary surgeon. Prior to starting her post on St Helena, Catherine worked at Paignton zoo, working with their giant tortoises, which is likely to have been a useful experience with regards to looking after St Helena’s Jonathan. She was also involved in the control of two avian influenza (bird flu) outbreaks, as well as conducting farm visits and investigations into poisoning and deficiencies.

Catherine concluded:

“This experience will no doubt come in handy when looking after Jonathan and his companions at Plantation.

 “I am very much looking forward to getting involved in Island life and meeting the people and their animals. I am also very grateful for the warm welcome I have received so far.”

SHG                                                                                                                                

26 October 2016

 

 

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St Helena Government Communications Hub

Telephone: 22470
Email: kimberley.peters@sainthelena.gov.sh