Sri Lankan wildlife veterinarians demand better safety standards and protections

Wildlife veterinarians across Sri Lanka are raising concerns about the dangerous working conditions they face, highlighting a critical gap between the risks inherent in their profession and the institutional support available to them. According to veterinary professionals, those working with wildlife operate with minimal emergency response systems, inadequate facilities, and insurance coverage that fails to reflect the occupational hazards they regularly encounter.

The call for reform comes amid ongoing discussions about professional accountability in the sector. Veterinarians argue that while they are expected to accept responsibility for field incidents, the systemic failures and resource constraints that contribute to such occurrences remain unaddressed by relevant authorities.

Professionals emphasize that improving workplace safety and establishing fair accountability frameworks requires a multi-faceted approach. This includes securing adequate funding for emergency medical systems, ensuring comprehensive occupational insurance, and implementing protocols that account for the challenging conditions under which wildlife veterinarians operate.

The broader issue reflects a need for policy reforms that balance professional responsibility with institutional duty of care. Veterinary bodies and wildlife authorities in Sri Lanka are being urged to engage in constructive dialogue to establish standards that protect both professionals and the animals in their care, while ensuring that accountability mechanisms are proportionate and just.