Before the Vet Arrives: Building the Emergency Vet Box
Extension Education
Erika Lyon
Extension Educator - ANR
Ohio State University Extension
Steubenville
Abstract
The Emergency Vet Box program was developed in 2025 to address concerns expressed by veterinarians, livestock producers, and horse owners regarding preparedness to respond to animal health emergencies when a large animal veterinarian is not immediately available. This need is especially critical in rural communities where access to large animal and poultry veterinarians is limited and livestock losses can be both financially and emotionally significant. A partnership between East Holmes Veterinary Clinic and Ohio State University Extension resulted in the creation of an Emergency Vet Box factsheet, webinar, and in-person workshops designed to communicate practical emergency preparedness strategies for livestock and equine owners. Educational messaging emphasized essential emergency supplies, organization of on-farm materials, livestock vital signs, and the importance of maintaining a valid Veterinarian-Client-Patient Relationship (VCPR). Program materials and educational events reached more than 350 Ohioans through live programs and distributed resources. Program effectiveness was evaluated during two in-person workshops representing a variety of livestock and equine species. Evaluation results indicated increased participant confidence in assembling and maintaining Emergency Vet Boxes and improved understanding that emergency preparedness supports—but does not replace—professional veterinary care. All respondents reported they were likely or very likely to respond more effectively during a livestock emergency as a result of program participation. Planned behavior changes included updating or organizing an existing Emergency Vet Box (53%), posting or keeping animal vital signs readily available (47%), assembling a new Emergency Vet Box (37%), and initiating emergency preparedness discussions with their veterinarian (37%). To reinforce key educational messages, each participating family received a starter kit containing basic emergency supplies to encourage continued kit development. Evaluation findings demonstrate that the Emergency Vet Box program effectively communicated emergency preparedness practices that increased participant knowledge, confidence, and intent to adopt on-farm preparedness behaviors. As a result, livestock owners are better positioned to respond to animal health emergencies through improved organization of emergency supplies, access to vital animal information, and enhanced communication with veterinary professionals.
Poster has NOT been presented at any previous NACAA AM/PIC
This poster is being submitted for judging. It will be displayed at the AM/PIC if not selected as a State winner. The abstract will be published in the proceedings.
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Authors: Erika Lyon, Janessa Hill, Eric Shaver
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Lyon, E. Extension Educator - ANR, Ohio State University Extension, Ohio, 43952
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Hill, J. Extension Educator - ANR, Ohio State University Extension, Ohio, 44654
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Shaver, E. Veterinarian, East Holmes Veterinary Clinic, Ohio, 44610