Veterinary and epizootic surveillance in Russia in the second half of the XIX century (based on the materials of the Central Black Earth Region)

The relevance of the article is due to the difficult epidemiological situation in the Kursk region, which arose due to a special military operation. The historical experience of the zemstvos in solving acute veterinary problems can be used in modern conditions. The history of veterinary and epizootic surveillance in the second half of the 19th century is also relevant from a theoretical point of view, as it allows us to expand knowledge about the socio-economic development of post-reform Russia. The purpose of the article is to analyze the veterinary practice of zemstvos in the Central Chernozem region in the second half of the XIX century. Objectives: to identify the peculiarities of the development of veterinary medicine in the zemstvo provinces; to analyze the problems faced by zemstvo veterinarians and methods of their solution; to evaluate the effectiveness of veterinary practice of zemstvos in the Central Chernozem region. The methodology includes chronological and historical-comparative approaches. The method of objectivity and scientific approach based on the principle of historicism is applied. Results. In the post-reform period, a tense epizootic situation developed in Russia. Zemstvo veterinarians took effective measures to counteract animal diseases. Measures aimed at preventing and eliminating epizootics, combating infectious diseases of animals were carried out everywhere, the population received free medical care for sick animals, veterinary laboratories and diagnostic rooms were opened. The fight against animal diseases in the Central Chernozem region has led to the complete elimination of epidemics. Conclusions. Zemstvo veterinary medicine contributed to the improvement of animal health and the development of livestock farms in Russia in the second half of the XIX century. The activities of zemstvo veterinarians marked the beginning of the organizational design of the veterinary service as a separate branch of medicine.