The rise of veterinary forensics

Forensic Sci Int. 2020 Jan:306:110069. doi: 10.1016/j.forsciint.2019.110069. Epub 2019 Nov 20.

Abstract

Veterinary forensics is rapidly emerging as a distinct branch of veterinary medicine, especially because of increasing mindfulness about animal cruelty, and of the link between acts of cruelty to animals and violence toward humans. Nevertheless, the application of forensic sciences in veterinary cases lags behind its application in medical cases. Although gaps persist in veterinarians' knowledge of forensics and in how to apply this field to medicolegal cases involving animals, continued research and publication in veterinary forensics are rapidly developing the evidence base in this area. Additionally, educational opportunities in veterinary forensics are also increasing at both undergraduate and postgraduate levels. Together, these changes will continue to improve veterinarians' abilities to investigate cases involving animals. To further strengthen these investigations, veterinarians should also collaborate with the appropriate experts in different disciplines of forensic science.

Keywords: Abuse; Collaboration; Crime-scene investigation; Veterinarian; Veterinary forensics.

Publication types

  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Animal Welfare
  • Animals
  • Animals, Wild
  • Conservation of Natural Resources
  • Cooperative Behavior
  • Crime
  • Endangered Species
  • Evidence-Based Medicine
  • Forensic Medicine*
  • Humans
  • Publishing
  • Veterinarians
  • Veterinary Medicine*