Vet techs care for four-legged force

By Ms. Kirstin GraceSimons (Regional Health CommandPacific)July 28, 2016

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Specialists David Wolfington and Mikiko Osawa, veterinary technicians at Public Health Command-Pacific's Okinawa Branch Veterinary Treatment Facility (VTF) remove sutures from the hind leg of Hank, a service member's canine. The Army Veterinary Corps... (Photo Credit: U.S. Army) VIEW ORIGINAL

Specialists David Wolfington and Mikiko Osawa, veterinary technicians at Public Health Command-Pacific's Okinawa Branch Veterinary Treatment Facility (VTF) remove sutures from the hind leg of Hank, a service member's canine. The Army Veterinary Corps is the sole provider within the Department of Defense for animal care. The primary mission of the VTFs is the care and treatment of the military working dog (MWD). Care ranges from biannual checkups, akin to the Army Physical Health Assessment for the Soldier, to lifesaving surgeries. VTFs also provide care for privately-owned animals that are members of military families. Comprehensive care ensures a healthy four-legged force and helps prevent the spread of zoonotic diseases within both animal and human populations.