Laying the Foundation for better Veterinary Services

Hatton has the highest milk production range in Sri Lanka. However, despite the high density of production, farmers often struggle to access vet clinics and spend long periods of time waiting for treatment and for the test-results of their livestock. This has led to farmers spending weeks uncertain of confirmed livestock diseases which poses a risk and leads to prolonged delays and heavy losses. The Department of Animal Production and Health has identified this as a pertinent issue in the region.

The Enhancing Gender Inclusive Socio-Economic Development (EGSD) project is working to rectify this short-coming with the eventual completion and opening of a veterinary clinic.

Earlier this month, Oxfam in Sri Lanka, supported by the European Union, together with partners Save the Children and LEADS, celebrated the laying of the foundation stone of a mini-veterinary laboratory in Hatton. The lab is part of the project which works in support of economic growth and poverty alletiviation in the rural, hill-country sector.

  • Traditional opening ceremony for the vet clinic in Hatton

    The clinic will be in support of livestock farmers and help them access better clinical services (eg: Lab testing, medication, recommendation services) to control the diseases on time. Previously such services were difficult to come by and most livestock owners had to travel to Kandy to recieve support/ consultations, etc. 

  • Lighting the traditional oil lamp at the foundation-laying ceremony

    This clinic is located within the Hatton Veterinary Surgeon Office and is under the Department of Animal Production of Health.

  • Opening ceremony for the new mini-vet clinic in Hatton

    The clinic will cover over 700 square feet of space and provide services such as sample collection, testing of blood/ feed/ dung as well as provide advice and direction for disease prevention among livestock.