Emergency management

Disaster and emergency management planning is essential for any veterinary business. That's why the NZVA has partnered with Dr Hayley Squance from BML Consulting to develop a series of resources to help veterinary teams prepare for a disaster or emergency event in their area.

Following Cyclone Gabrielle in 2023, we knew we needed a robust framework to help us support veterinary professionals in the event of another local, regional or national emergency. We commissioned BML Consulting to conduct an independent review of our response to the cyclone, including debrief sessions with NZVA staff, industry representatives and veterinary professionals in Hawke’s Bay and Tairāwhiti – two of the worst affected areas.

Based on feedback from these debrief sessions, we worked with BML Consulting to develop a handbook and planning template to help NZVA members prepare for, respond to and recover from disasters or emergencies that may impact their business, staff, clients, patients and community.

These resources – which include examples, checklists and templates to help you get started – will help you develop a personalised plan for your business.

Emergency management planning should be embraced as an integral aspect of veterinary businesses and woven into core operations. By prioritising preparedness, veterinary practices not only safeguard animal health during disasters and emergencies, but also reinforce their commitment to service, resilience and community trust.