If no VCO is available on station, who is the alternate source of medical care for MWDs?

• A. The kennel master
• B. The base surgeon
• C. A local civilian veterinarian
• D. A civilian veterinary clinic

Answer: (C)

When a dedicated Veterinary Care Officer isn’t on station, the animal’s medical needs are handled by a licensed professional in the local area. A local civilian veterinarian is the go-to alternate source because they have the training, authority, and immediate availability to diagnose and treat MWDs and to maintain the dog’s medical records. They can provide appropriate veterinary care, prescriptions, and follow-up, and the unit can coordinate with them to ensure continuity of care.

The kennel master isn’t a licensed veterinarian and handles kennel operations and welfare, not professional medical treatment. The base surgeon focuses on human medical care and would not typically provide veterinary services. A civilian veterinary clinic is a facility, but the important point is the veterinarian—the individual who can diagnose and treat the dog—so a local civilian veterinarian is the correct choice.