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.
Veterinary Crisis: Emerging Shortage of Educators Threatens Future of Animal Healthcare
A potential shortage of veterinary medical educators could significantly impact the future of veterinary education and animal healthcare. With the expansion of class sizes and new programs, the profession must address the shortage through collaboration, innovative pedagogy, and government support to ensure the education of future veterinarians.
Exclusive: AVMA Council on Education Reveals Ambitious Plans for Veterinary Program Accreditation
program accreditation, including consultative evaluations for proposed institutions like Rowan University and Clemson University. These initiatives reflect a concerted effort to expand access to veterinary education and address workforce needs in the field. The article highlights key developments in accreditation efforts across various institutions, signaling a transformative phase in veterinary education.
Veterinarians Storm Congress for Groundbreaking Animal Health Bill
In an unprecedented move, over 140 veterinary professionals will converge on Capitol Hill for the American Veterinary Medical Association’s (AVMA) annual legislative fly-in on February 6th. Their mission? To rally congressional support for two critical pieces of legislation: the Rural Veterinary Workforce Act and the Healthy Dog Importation Act.
The urgency behind their advocacy is clear: to increase the availability of veterinary services in rural and underserved areas and to bolster defenses against diseases threatening both animal and public health. These discussions with senators, representatives, and their staff will highlight the profound impact of these bills on the nation's animal health infrastructure.
Purina Helping Veterinarians Help Animals
Purina Pro Plan Veterinary Diets has announced the initiation of the Pro Plan Veterinary Support Mission, a groundbreaking endeavor aimed at alleviating common challenges faced by veterinary professionals in their practice. In a significant first step, the initiative has pledged a substantial donation of $1 million to the American Veterinary Medical Foundation (AVMF) REACH program. This program provides grants to veterinarians offering essential pet care services to owners undergoing financial difficulties.
Veterinary Mental Health Revolution: Groundbreaking Study Shows Unprecedented Positive Trends Post-Pandemic!
Increase in Mental Health Resources for ProfessionalsAlmost three-quarters of veterinary professionals express personal satisfaction with their career, but there are still factors they are concerned about, including high exhaustion, work-life balance, and shortage of vets, all of which can contribute to a feeling of burnout. Results indicate that more veterinarians who needed mental health support received outpatient treatment and counseling for mental health challenges in 2023. Moreover, there has been a substantial increase in clinics supporting their team's mental health and emotional wellbeing, with results showing that 38% of clinics now offer an employee assistance program (EAP) as opposed to 31% in 2021 and 27% in 2019.