Aggies in One Health: Q&A with Hibah Abuhamdieh

Dr. Hibah Abuhamdieh completed a dual degree to earn her DVM and MPH from the veterinary school at the University of Georgia. From there, Dr. Abuhamdieh completed a large animal internship in Field Services (Farm Practice and Theriogenology), followed by a residency at UC Davis School of Veterinary Medicine in Livestock Herd Health & Reproduction while earning her Master’s in Preventive Veterinary Medicine. She recently became a member of the American College of Preventive Veterinary Medicine (DACVPM).

What first sparked your love of animals?

My love for animals started at a really early age. My family has had pets for as long as I can remember and I instantly felt a connection with them. Growing up, my family moved around a lot so I was always saying goodbye to my friends but I found comfort in our pets. We had chickens, ducks, cats, a dog, birds, fish, turtles, a chinchilla, iguana and a tortoise growing up and I was always really excited to learn about different types of animals and to take responsibility and care for them. 

What was it about your interest in animals that led you to veterinary medicine (as opposed to a different type of career involving animals)?

I started shadowing veterinarians when I was in high school to see whether that was the career path that I was interested in following and I found out that I really enjoyed the science and medicine. In undergrad I majored in animal science and biochemistry and applied to vet school, feeling certain about following my childhood dream.

Was your participation in the Park Fire response your first experience providing veterinary care during a disaster? If yes, how was it?

I had previously provided care for animals that had come into the livestock medicine service fat UC Davis for burns during my first year of residency in 2021. I also went out to see a herd of cows that had suffered burns that same year with Dr. Urbano. The Park Fire was my first time responding in the field and it was a great experience, seeing disaster preparedness & response put to action with a group of dedicated individuals from all areas of expertise. 

Could you give a quick summary of your education, career, and service?

I did my Bachelor’s at Berry College and graduated in 2015 with a major in animal science and biochemistry. I then went to vet school at the University of Georgia and did a dual degree program where I got my DVM and MPH. From there, I did a large animal internship in Field Services (Farm Practice and Theriogenology). I then came to Davis for my residency in Livestock Herd Health & Reproduction where I got my Master’s in Preventive Veterinary Medicine. I just became a member of the American College of Preventive Veterinary Medicine (DACVPM) and will be starting a job at Black Beauty Ranch in Murchison, Texas in a couple of weeks.  

Is there one piece of advice you'd give aspiring veterinarians looking to work in One Health?

One Health is such an important field in which veterinarians have taken the lead. I think it’s so important for us to remember what an important role we play in making our planet a better, healthier place. Don’t underestimate your skills and knowledge, and find ways to advocate for veterinarians within public health.