Massey University Veterinary Emergency Response Team

The Massey University Veterinary Emergency Response Team (VERT) is a specialist team, able to conduct technical animal rescue and perform in-field veterinary treatment and disaster assessment.

VERT is a voluntary group, with 12 active members. Team members are comprised of small and large animal veterinarians, veterinary technologists, experienced animal handlers, and others passionate about animal welfare and technical animal rescue.

The team is based at the Massey University School of Veterinary Science in Palmerston North. While the University supports VERT members with release to perform duties and for training, the team relies on funding for its response capacity and educational activities. Members volunteer their time and fund most personal equipment individually. The Massey University Foundation is a charitable trust that administers the finances of VERT and accounts for all donations/funding received.