Imagine animals could talk. What stories would they tell about this place? We are standing before the Facultad de Veterinaria in Madrid. It is more than just a school. It is a living testament to Spain’s dedication to animal care and health.
The Facultad de Veterinaria has a rich history dating back to medieval times. The first animal caretakers were known as albéitares. They organized into guilds. The Royal Tribunal of Protoalbeiterato came about in the 15th century. It evolved into the first veterinary school in Spain. This was founded in 1793. It was called the Royal College School of Veterinary Medicine of Madrid. This school marked a turning point. Its teachings were based on science.
Initially, the Royal College was at the convent of the Augustinian Recollects. Today, this is the National Library. Until 1840 it had a military focus. It shared space with the Royal Tribunal. The Tribunal was abolished in 1847. Wars affected the institution. It was moved to San Francisco street in 1862 to 1863. Later, it moved to a building near Ronda de Toledo in 1877.
Finally in 1882, it moved to the Glorieta de Embajadores. The architect Francisco Jareño de Alarcón designed this better-equipped location. Today, the IES Cervantes stands there. The school wanted to join other university studies. The facilities deteriorated. In 1958, the Embajadores location closed. Classes were held in the Faculty of Law. There were temporary facilities at Puerta de Hierro. The current Facultad de Veterinaria opened at Avenida Puerta de Hierro in 1968 to 1969.
Veterinary studies became a degree in 1943. A doctorate became possible in 1944. The Facultad has expanded since then. It added new classrooms and a teaching farm. A food technology pilot plant was added. In 1996, the Complutense Veterinary Clinical Hospital opened.
The Facultad de Veterinaria offers several degrees. These include Science and Food Technology and Veterinary studies. It also offers master’s degrees. You can study Veterinary Science Research. They also offer Animal Health and Production together with UPM. Virology is also a master’s degree offered with UPM. A doctorate in Veterinary studies is available.
The Facultad is home to the Complutense Veterinary Museum. It showcases the evolution of veterinary science. Models and instruments are on display. They show how the profession has adapted over time. Veterinary medicine includes animal care. It also covers food safety and public health. It includes animal production and the environment.
The Facultad de Veterinaria has many departments. These include Animal Medicine and Surgery. There is also Animal Health. Other departments are Animal Production and Food Technology.
Many associations are linked to the Facultad de Veterinaria. These include student and professional groups. The Facultad also has a Clinical Genetics Service. There is even a Diving and Sailing Club.
So as you leave the Facultad de Veterinaria consider the dedication to animal well-being. This institution embodies a commitment to education and care. It shapes the future of veterinary medicine in Spain.