Human And Animal Health A Critical Branch Of Public...

Veterinary public health is a critical branch of public health and a key component of a healthy society. Zoonotic diseases are brought about by pathogens that can infect both animals and humans. Without proper disease control interventions, zoonotic pathogens can cause catastrophic effects on humans, animals, and the ecosystem as a whole. Zoonotic diseases account for nearly 75% of emerging infectious diseases, so it is quite obvious that human and animal health are inextricably linked (Economics and One Health). The â€Å"One Health† approach calls for interdisciplinary collaboration in all aspects of health care for humans, animals and the environment (cantas). It is common practice in the American culture for small animals to be regarded as†¦show more content†¦Healthy People 2020 intends to identify health improvement priorities, provide measurable objectives, increase awareness, promote best practices, and measure the impact of prevention activities. 2020 Healthy Pets Healthy Families has similar goals, however is focused more on the intertwined relationship of animal and human health. The goals of 2020 Healthy Pets Healthy Families are to create animal health goals based on the latest research, track trends in animal health, and create programs that improve both animal and human health. 2020 Healthy Pets Healthy Families has seven focus areas: 1. Zoonotic disease prevention 2. Bite prevention 3. Disaster preparedness 4. Spay-neuter requirement 5. Pet obesity 6. Second hand smoke 7. Vaccine preventable diseases This case study attempts to analyze the effectiveness of the 2020 Healthy Pets Healthy Families campaign using the Health Belief Model. Overview of the Initiative 2020 Healthy Pets Healthy Families was launched in 2010 by the Veterinary Public Health sector within the Los Angeles County Department of Public Health. The idea for the campaign came from the Acting Director of the Veterinary Public health program, Dr. Karen Ehnert. Dr. Ehnert is responsible for strategizing ways to improve the program, and after noticing gaps in promotion of prevention and community education she decided to design an initiative. 2020 Healthy Pets Healthy Families combines the One Health movement with the