Aware of Issue is one of the annual work programs of the Action and Propaganda Department of BEM FKH UGM. This year, the theme is “A Pawfect Pet”. It aims to increase public awareness regarding one of the focus issues of BEM FKH UGM, namely Animal Welfare. As well as increasing public insight regarding the health and welfare of animals, especially pets. (SDGs 4 Quality Education)
Aware of Issue 2024 is packaged in several series of activities starting with the literature release, trivia contents, campaigns, and ending with seminars, as well as Medical Check-ups for pets. The release of the 2024 Aware of Issue contents published on social media Instagram Aware of Issue @aoi_bemfkhugm on April 19 2024 was the start of this series of activities. Furthermore, the posts are filled with some contents regarding unique facts and insights about Animal Welfare which is uploaded via Instagram @aoi_bemfkhugm. The online campaign was carried out from 19 April 2024 to 19 May 2024. The campaign was carried out using the “add yours” feature on Instagram and was successful in reaching the wider community by uploading photos showing “street feeding moments” and “a day with your pet”.
The highlight of the 2024 Aware of Issue activities was the holding of a seminar and Medical Check-up in the Auditorium of the Faculty of Veterinary Medicine UGM on Saturday, 25 May 2024 at 09.30 AM–14.00 PM. The seminar was attended by 63 participants from students and public citizens. The seminar began with speeches from the Chair of the Committee, Chair of BEM FKH UGM, and Deputy Dean for Academic and Student Affairs. (SDGs 17 Partnership for the Goal)
This activity correlates with the 3rd goal of the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). Presentation of material by Dr. drh. Widagdo Sri Nugroho regarding “Human Well Being Based on Animal Welfare” touched on human welfare being closely related to animal welfare. He also discussed education regarding laws governing the treatment of animals, ownership regulations and strict regulations on ownership of exotic animals, as well as zoonoses in animals, especially pets. Doctor Widagdo emphasized that animal welfare is an important issue for the public to know and understand, especially with the “5 Freedoms” principle. However, the implementation of animal welfare also needs to be supported by strong government regulations. This is related to the 3rd goal of the SDGs, where good health and well-being will improve the standard of human life. This is also a form of sustainable education as the knowledge is suitable for the public and affects all. (SDGs 4 Quality Education).
The activity ended with a Medical Check-up carried out directly by Drh. Eritta Woro Wittanti. He is a practicing veterinarian at the Satwakita Pets & Shop veterinary clinic. There were 9 patients who took part in the Medical Check-up for pets. The majority of patients who take part in the Medical Check-up session are cats, but there are also dogs, guinea pigs and frogs. (SDG 15 Life on Land)
The hope is that the implementation of Aware of Issue 2024 can continue to increase public awareness and insight into the importance of Animal Welfare, and help build healthy and prosperous lives in order to maintain the welfare of animals around us.
Cr: Faries Fatih Ariyudho.
