What's A Forensic Veterinarian Do?
In this episode of ER VET, Dr. Justine Lee, DACVECC, DABT chats with Dr. Martha Smith-Blackmore on what a forensic veterinarian does. From helping fight animal abuse and work with the criminal justice system, learn what she does to help save our voiceless, vulnerable 4-legged companions.
BIO:
Martha Smith-Blackmore is an internationally recognized veterinarian with deep animal welfare and veterinary forensics experience. She is a leader in the field of veterinary, shelter & forensic veterinary medicine; an engaging public speaker; a compassionate and effective manager. A talented animal advocate, Dr. Smith is known for her appropriate and balanced scientific approach. She is passionate about good quality of life for all animals and people. Dr. Smith works to protect animals because protecting animals helps to protect all of us.
Dr. Smith-Blackmore is a research assistant professor at Cummings School of Veterinary Medicine at Tufts University, and she is a recipient of the school's Childers Award for extraordinary contributions to student education. She is also an associate member of the American Academy of Forensic Sciences, the National Sheriffs Association and the International Association of Chiefs of Police. Dr. Smith is the chair of the American Veterinary Medical Association's Animal Welfare Committee, and past-president of the Association of Shelter Veterinarians.
Dr. Smith-Blackmore's forensics career was launched at the MSPCA and continued to develop over her 14 year career at the Animal Rescue League of Boston, working with a variety of police departments, animal control departments and prosecutors. Dr. Smith has contributed to the successful prosecution of cases of simple animal abuse, intentional abuse & torture, animal sexual abuse and animal fighting.
Dr. Smith-Blackmore's forensics career was launched at the MSPCA and continued to develop over her 14 year career at the Animal Rescue League of Boston, working with a variety of police departments, animal control departments and prosecutors. Dr. Smith has contributed to the successful prosecution of cases of simple animal abuse, intentional abuse & torture, animal sexual abuse and animal fighting.
A graduate of Cummings School of Veterinary Medicine at Tufts University, Dr. Smith is internship trained at the MSPCA Angell Animal Medical Center. She has worked as a shelter veterinarian, director of veterinary medicine, interim president and vice president of animal welfare at the Animal Rescue League of Boston. When the increasing demand for veterinary forensic work forced a choice between administrative duties and protecting animals, Dr. Smith knew there was no choice. Hence, FVI!