Veterinary Workforce Crisis: Why the Data Doesn't Match Reality
A recent report from the Brakke Veterinary Workforce Forecast project suggests that by 2035, the U.S. could see a surplus of veterinarians, with the supply outpacing demand. However, this optimistic projection doesn’t reflect the current reality of veterinary medicine, especially in states like Kentucky, where the shortage of veterinarians is reaching critical levels.
Across Kentucky, there are over 2 million head of cattle, hundreds of thousands of horses, and thousands of household pets needing veterinary attention. Despite the overwhelming demand, there are only 2,571 active, licensed veterinarians in the state, and as of May 2022, only 1,160 were actively employed and working in the commonwealth, according to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics. Even more alarming, as of November 2022, only 54 full-time veterinarians were focused on food or large animal care, which is critical for farm animals raised for food production, according to the Kentucky Department of Agriculture.
Kentucky, a state renowned for its horse industry and ranking as the largest beef producer east of the Mississippi River, relies heavily on veterinarians to maintain the health and safety of animals integral to its $50 billion agriculture industry. The shortage of veterinarians—especially those specializing in large animal care—has placed tremendous pressure on farmers and pet owners alike, and could eventually threaten the state’s food supply.
A Nationwide Problem, Intensified in rural areas like Kentucky
While the veterinarian shortage is a nationwide issue, Kentucky faces unique challenges. With 13 million acres of farmland and its status as the Horse Capital of the World, the state is experiencing a compounded crisis. The population of veterinarians is aging, and rural communities struggle to attract new veterinary graduates, leaving large gaps in essential services for livestock and pets. The geographical and demographic imbalance is not reflected in national workforce projections, which focus solely on overall supply rather than regional disparities.
The Booming Pet Care Industry
Adding to the urgency of the veterinary shortage is the rapid growth of the global pet care industry. The global pet care market was valued at USD 246.66 billion in 2023 and is projected to grow to USD 427.75 billion by 2032, at a CAGR of 6.45% during the forecast period. North America, which dominated the market with a 33.81% share in 2023, is expected to continue to lead this expansion. As more households bring pets into their lives and invest in their care, the demand for veterinary services will only increase, further straining an already overstretched workforce.
The Impact of Burnout and Work-Life Balance
Another critical factor missing from national projections is the impact of burnout and the struggle for work-life balanceamong veterinarians. Many professionals are reducing their hours or leaving the field altogether due to overwhelming workloads and mental health challenges. While more veterinary graduates may enter the workforce in the coming years, the retention of current veterinarians remains a serious concern. This gap in workforce capacity isn’t captured by data suggesting an eventual surplus of veterinarians.
Consumer Trends: The Rise of Comprehensive Pet Care
The forecast also predicts a potential slowdown in demand for veterinary services compared to overall pet expenditures. However, the reality is that pet owners are increasingly seeking comprehensive care for their animals. The rise of pet insurance and preventative care packages shows that people are willing to invest in long-term health and wellness for their pets, suggesting that demand for veterinary services could grow faster than predicted.
While data suggests that by 2035, the supply of veterinarians may outpace demand, the current situation in states like Kentucky paints and the booming pet care market has a very different picture. With severe shortages, especially in rural areas, the veterinary industry faces ongoing challenges related to workforce distribution, burnout, and shifting consumer demands. Additionally, the booming pet care market is set to place even more pressure on veterinary services. A more nuanced approach to workforce planning is needed, focusing not just on overall numbers, but on retaining current veterinarians, attracting new graduates to underserved areas, and addressing the immediate needs of regions like Kentucky.
So, do you agree that there isn’t a shortage? Let us know your comments below:
