By Staff Reporter
WINDHOEK
Veterinarian Dr Rainer Hassel joined the ranks of Agra as animal scientist from October 1, Agra has announced.
Agra said in a statement recently that Dr Hassel would serve Agra in a general advisory and support capacity regarding all aspects of animal health and the veterinary side of its business.
Among his duties are training of staff involved in the sale of veterinary medicines and instruments and assisting Agra with its training programmes for farm workers and new farmers.
He will also speak on animal health topics at farmers’ days and farmers’ association meetings. His main responsibility is however to improve, extend and promote the services of Auas Vet Med.
Dr Hassel completed his tertiary education in 1977 when he received a degree in veterinary science from the University of Pretoria. He started his career in 1978 as a state veterinarian in Keetmanshoop, Omarura and Windhoek. Dr Hassel left the civil service at the end of 1982.
He opened a companion animal practice in Windhoek in 1983 as a private veterinary practitioner until the end of September 2007.
Dr Hassel served on numerous professional boards, amongst others as an elected member of the Veterinary Council of Namibia for eight years, including as vice-president and president from 1994 until 1996. He was also an elected member and vice-president of the Veterinary Association of Namibia and currently holds the position of immediate past president and treasurer.
Dr Hassel is also a trustee of the Cheetah Conservation Fund with which Agra has sound relations and has contributed multiple articles on the Kudu Rabies Epizootic in Namibia for publication in the South African Journal of Science and the Journal of the South African Veterinary Association.
“Dr Hassel’s appointment as animal scientist will add tremendous value to the services which Agra provides to its customers as well as to Agra’s business growth in the veterinary and animal health sector,” said the Agra statement.