The first exam for the new national qualification "pet nurse", which is called "pet nurse", will be held nationwide on the 19th.
As pets age and veterinary medicine becomes more sophisticated, it is expected to play a role in assisting medical care.
According to the Ministry of Agriculture, Forestry and Fisheries, there are more than 16,000 veterinarians who treat small animals such as dogs and cats nationwide as of the second year of Reiwa. , increasing the burden on veterinarians has become an issue.
In an attempt to solve these problems, the new national qualification "Pet Animal Nurse" will allow veterinarians to collect urine and blood using a catheter, as well as insert a microchip with an identification number, which was previously done only by veterinarians. , under the direction of a veterinarian, as an "assistant to medical care".
It is also expected that animals will play a role in education at elementary schools and other facilities, therapy activities at facilities for the elderly, and support for elderly people who find it difficult to keep pets.
The first national exam will be held at 19 venues nationwide on the 19th, and about 20,000 people are expected to take the exam.
The Ministry of the Environment and the Ministry of Agriculture, Forestry and Fisheries, which have jurisdiction over the project, said, ``As the idea that pets are members of the family is spreading, and the medical treatment required for animals is becoming more complex, the participation of pet nurses will provide higher quality veterinary medicine. Also, as a familiar presence for pet owners, I would like them to give advice on pet health care and proper breeding methods."