Iowa has a new state veterinarian at the Iowa Department of Agriculture. Jeff Kaisand was recently named to that position by Iowa Secretary of Ag Mike Naig.
“Iowa has a $13.45 billion animal industry, a significant economic driver employing thousands of Iowans,” Naig says. “Dr. Kaisand’s leadership as state veterinarian will help ensure the health and vitality of this industry going forward.”
The state veterinarian leads the department’s Animal Industry Bureau, which oversees regulation of animal movement, exhibitions, importation, and disease eradication and control. The state vet also plays an important role in working with partners to prevent, prepare and respond to any foreign animal disease or natural disaster concern. The bureau also regulates certain commercial companion animal breeders and retailers.
Experienced in animal health issues
Kaisand was assistant state veterinarian for six years and has been the acting state veterinarian since David Schmitt’s retirement as state vet in January. Kaisand played a key role in the state’s response to the 2015 avian influenza outbreak.
Prior to joining the Iowa Department of Ag, Kaisand held veterinary supervisor roles with Iowa businesses and had his own veterinary practice. A native of Union in central Iowa, he practiced privately in Melbourne and Baxter and spent 13 years working for Iowa Select Farms. He earned his degree in veterinary medicine from Iowa State University and has a degree in animal science from ISU.