Vet Turned Lawmaker's Bold Plan to Save Colorado Pets

In Colorado, a veterinarian-turned-legislator is making waves with groundbreaking proposals to combat a severe veterinarian shortage. The state, home to approximately 3,800 veterinarians, is struggling to meet the needs of its 2.5 million pets, including a diverse range from dogs and cats to horses and livestock. Findings from a Colorado State University study indicate a staggering 70% of veterinarians are unable to take new animals weekly, overwhelmed by their current caseloads. Representative Karen McCormick of Boulder County is at the forefront of this battle.

Reflecting on the drastic change from four decades ago, when pet owners easily found veterinary care, McCormick points out the escalating crisis. Today's scenario shows a steep increase in demand for veterinary services against a backdrop of dwindling veterinarian numbers, posing a threat to both animal welfare and public health.

The crisis hits hardest in rural areas, especially for veterinarians treating large farm animals. McCormick underscores the twofold dilemma: an aging veterinarian workforce with fewer replacements, and the inclination of new graduates, nearly 80%, towards caring for small, domestic animals.

To address these challenges, McCormick is introducing revolutionary legislation. Her first bill seeks to revolutionize veterinary telehealth, setting clear guidelines for virtual consultations and prescriptions, adapting to the FDA's existing in-person consultation requirements.

Another bill in her agenda aims to expand the role and recognition of veterinary technicians. High turnover rates, averaging seven years in the field, are attributed to underutilization and inadequate pay. Dr. Nancy Bureau from Left Hand Animal Hospital supports these changes, asserting, "Our veterinary technician teams are amazingly talented people. This is a win-win all around - for animals, pet parents, technicians, and veterinary medicine."

Additionally, McCormick is tackling the rural veterinarian shortage head-on. While the federal government offers student loan forgiveness for vets in rural areas, retention remains an issue. Her proposed legislation includes income tax credits for veterinarians who commit to long-term practice in rural communities, providing a more robust solution to sustain veterinarian availability in these critical areas.