In a groundbreaking move to address the shortage of Registered Veterinary Technicians (RVTs) and ensure that pets in need receive the care they deserve, Petco Love, a leading national nonprofit organization, has teamed up with Penn Foster, an innovative online learning provider, to launch the Petco Love Registered Veterinary Technician Scholarship Fund.

The shortage of RVTs has posed a significant challenge, particularly for vulnerable pets in animal shelters and those whose owners struggle financially to afford veterinary care. Recognizing this pressing issue, Petco Love's initiative aims to boost the number of RVTs serving these underserved pets.

According to a recent study commissioned by Petco Love, approximately three-quarters of shelters and low-cost clinics reported a shortage of veterinarians and veterinary technicians. This shortage has led to delays in crucial preventive healthcare, spaying/neutering, and treatment of sick and injured pets. The study's findings underscore the urgent need for action to address the staffing crisis in the veterinary field.

Susanne Kogut, President of Petco Love, emphasized the gravity of the situation, stating, "Without proper staffing, shelters can't effectively manage shelter pet intake, and the entire system breaks down, resulting in greater euthanasia of shelter pets."

The Petco Love RVT Scholarship Fund at Penn Foster seeks to bridge this gap by supporting approximately 100 candidates currently working in animal welfare organizations who aspire to become credentialed veterinary technicians. The program will provide educational and training support, allowing candidates to pursue a veterinary technician career through Penn Foster's online Veterinary Technician Associate Degree program.

Stacy Caldwell, General Manager of Penn Foster, expressed enthusiasm for the partnership, stating, "Improving accessible care for all pets starts with training their caretakers."

In addition to the scholarship fund, Petco Love has also invested in other initiatives aimed at addressing the veterinary shortage, including supporting the University of Florida Shelter Medicine program and partnering with Louisiana State University to establish a community outreach veterinarian program.

As Petco Love continues to lead efforts to tackle the veterinary technician shortage, pet owners and advocates can visit petcolove.org to learn more about their impactful initiatives.