Animals are not merely an integral part of nature and the ecosystem; they are living beings with whom we share life and who deserve protection and care. October 4, Animal Protection Day, is a significant occasion for raising public awareness regarding animals' right to life, their welfare, and their health.

Protecting animals entails more than simply preventing their mistreatment. Key elements of animal welfare include ensuring animals live in healthy conditions, have access to proper care and nutrition, are protected against diseases, have their natural habitats respected, and fostering a sense of responsibility in human-animal interactions.

The veterinary profession undertakes multifaceted responsibilities that extend beyond protecting animal health and treating diseases; these include improving animal welfare, combating zoonotic diseases, ensuring food safety, and safeguarding the environment and ecosystem health. In this regard, veterinarians are key stakeholders in the "One Health" approach, which addresses animal, human, and environmental health as an interconnected whole.

As the Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, we believe that respecting animals' right to life and protecting their welfare is not only a professional obligation but also a scientific, ethical, and social responsibility. In training the veterinarians of the future, we consider the development of animal welfare awareness, ethical values, and a sense of social responsibility—alongside professional knowledge and skills—to be fundamental components of our education.

May this meaningful day... We hope this contributes to increased sensitivity towards animals, the strengthening of public awareness regarding animal welfare, and the creation of a more livable world where the right to life of all living beings is respected.

We celebrate October 4th, Animal Protection Day, and once again emphasize the importance of acting with love, compassion, and a sense of responsibility towards all the living beings with whom we share our lives.

Dean's Office of the Faculty of Veterinary Medicine