The origins of Veterinary Services in Ghana trace back to the British colonial administration in the early 20th century. The first qualified veterinarian to arrive in the country, Mr. W. P. B. Beal, landed in Accra by boat in May 1909. After an interview with Governor Sir John Rodger, he was assigned to conduct a veterinary survey of the Gold Coast Colony, Ashanti, and the Northern Territories Protectorate. His headquarters were established in Accra, and he was placed under the Medical Department, reporting to the Principal Medical Officer.

Beal’s arrival was met with immediate demand for veterinary services. Recalling his early days, he noted, “The arrival of a Veterinary Officer was soon noised abroad, and on my third morning, I woke up to find a sick parade of a number of horses outside my bungalow.” To manage the overwhelming demand, Beal sought technical assistance, and the Colonial Secretary assigned him Mr. J. B. Quansah, a medical dispenser. The two worked together for 21 years, laying the foundation for the Veterinary Department, the first of its kind in British West Africa.

Recognizing the critical need for animal disease control, the British colonial government introduced early veterinary measures, including quarantine stations, disease control laws, and veterinary laboratories, forming the basis of modern veterinary practice in Ghana.