Army vet runs clinics for Afghan farmers

A Military Operations news article

23 May 11

A British Army vet has begun a six-month tour of Afghanistan where she is travelling all around Helmand province running veterinary clinics for Afghan farmers.

Army vet Captain Laura Holmes provides health checks for animals in Helmand province
[Picture: Sergeant Russ Nolan RLC, Crown Copyright/MOD 2011]

Captain Laura Holmes, aged 29, is a member of the Veterinary Engagement Team, based in Lashkar Gah. Describing her work in Helmand, she said:

"Local farmers bring in their sheep, goats and cattle for a health check. We give the animals some medicine, and deal with any ailments they might have. Each farmer has a few animals which he uses to feed his family, so their animals are fundamental to their lives.

"We get to interact with the farmers too," she added. "Whether we're talking about animals or football teams, we can have some face-time with them."

Captain Holmes also runs classes for the farmers, showing them how to look after their animals themselves:

"I teach them a bit of veterinary medicine and modern animal husbandry," she said. "It's absolutely fantastic to see the difference that it makes to their lives."...

Much more here.