26 July 2016
The States of Jersey has appointed a new States vet. Theo Knight-Jones will replace Linda Lowseck who left in May and he takes over from the interim States Vet Stephen Sagar.
Theo started his career working in veterinary practice dealing with a full range of animals from gerbils to race horses. He later specialised as a farm vet in South Wales and then did further training to become a veterinary epidemiologist, dealing with the control of diseases in populations.
In recent years he has worked in research, advising governments on animal health and public health policy. Areas of work have included national control strategies for diseases of international importance, including foot-and-mouth disease, and diseases that can spread from animals to people, such as certain strains of bird flu.
He has worked with the UN, in the Middle East and Africa, and most recently for the International Livestock Research Institute in Zambia working on smallholder animal health and food safety.
Mr Knight-Jones said “The role of States Veterinary Officer offers a unique opportunity to draw on my experiences and expertise in order to serve the varied needs of the people of Jersey.
“I very much look forward to connecting with the Island’s people and animals, whether that be the pet owning public or those that work with animals and depend upon them for their livelihood. My family and I are truly excited about the unique and varied life that lies ahead in Jersey, both work and play.”