Qatar is a small, wealthy nation in the Middle East with a rapidly growing population of both people and pets. As pet ownership becomes increasingly popular in Qatar, the need for veterinary care continues to grow. In this article, we will explore the standard of veterinary care in Qatar, the national veterinary association, and the availability of vets in the country.
Standard of Veterinary Care
The standard of veterinary care in Qatar is generally good. Many veterinarians in Qatar have received their training in countries such as the United States, the United Kingdom, or Australia. The country has several well-equipped veterinary hospitals and clinics that offer a range of services, from routine check-ups to specialized surgeries.
However, there is a shortage of veterinarians in Qatar, which can result in long wait times for appointments and limited availability for emergency care. Additionally, the cost of veterinary care in Qatar can be relatively high compared to other countries in the region.
National Veterinary Association
The Qatar Veterinary Association (QVA) is the national veterinary association in Qatar. It was founded in 2001 with the goal of promoting and developing the veterinary profession in the country. The QVA is a member of the World Veterinary Association and the Federation of Veterinarians of Europe.
The QVA provides a range of services for its members, including continuing education and professional development opportunities, networking events, and advocacy efforts. The organization also works to promote animal welfare and public health in Qatar.
Contact details for the QVA are as follows:
- Address: PO Box 23788, Doha, Qatar
- Phone: +974 4483 5861
- Email: info@qatarvet.com
- Website: www.qatarvet.com
Availability of Vets
There are several veterinary clinics and hospitals located throughout Qatar. The majority of these facilities are located in Doha, the capital city. Some of the most well-known veterinary hospitals and clinics in Qatar include:
- Doha Veterinary Services: This is one of the largest veterinary clinics in Qatar. They offer a range of services, including routine check-ups, vaccinations, surgeries, and emergency care. They also have an in-house laboratory for diagnostic testing.
- Qatar Veterinary Center: This is a state-of-the-art veterinary hospital located in Doha. They offer a wide range of services, including surgery, dentistry, imaging, and emergency care.
- American Veterinary Clinic: This clinic is staffed by veterinarians who have received their training in the United States. They offer a range of services, including wellness exams, dental care, and surgery.
In addition to these larger facilities, there are also several smaller veterinary clinics and mobile veterinary services throughout Qatar. These clinics may be more convenient for those living outside of Doha or for those who require more specialized care.
English-Speaking Vets
As English is widely spoken in Qatar, it is generally not difficult to find a veterinary clinic or hospital where the staff speaks English. Many of the clinics and hospitals listed above have English-speaking veterinarians and support staff, and are accustomed to dealing with expatriate clients.
However, if you prefer to specifically seek out an English-speaking vet in Qatar, there are several resources you can use. The Qatar Living website has a section dedicated to pets, which includes a directory of veterinary clinics and hospitals in Qatar, as well as a forum where pet owners can share information and ask for recommendations.
Another option is to contact the British Veterinary Center, which is located in Doha and staffed by UK-trained veterinarians. They offer a range of veterinary services for small animals, including preventive care, diagnostics, surgery, and emergency care, and all of their staff speak English. They can be contacted through their website or by phone.
Conclusion
Overall, veterinary care in Qatar is of a high standard, with a range of clinics and hospitals offering a wide variety of services for both small and large animals. While the cost of veterinary care in Qatar can be higher than in some other countries, the quality of care provided is generally very good, and the availability of English-speaking staff makes it easier for expatriates to access these services.