For years, Canada has been experiencing a workforce shortage of veterinarians and registered technicians, especially in rural areas. This situation worsened after the pandemic.
This problem is becoming particularly urgent in New Brunswick, where all veterinary practices are critically understaffed and experiencing high levels of burnout. While the government provides a Provincial Veterinary Service for many food production animals, private large animal practices are scarce, and all companion animal facilities in the region are experiencing work overload. No sector is spared.
With an increase in animals and owners seeking veterinary care, this rise in demand is not being matched by the number of professionals in the workforce. In fact, our regional veterinary college continues to graduate the same number of veterinarians each year as it did back in 1990.
First and most important, all animal owners need to be able to access veterinary care in the province. When there is a shortage of veterinarians and veterinary technicians, we risk the health of animals, people and the environment we share. Deterioration in animal health can lead to an increased risk of human diseases and compromise our food supply.
You can help improve veterinary access in New Brunswick by speaking to your MLA and advocating for an increase in training opportunities for New Brunswick students as well as supporting strategies to attract veterinarians and increase retention.
Let your MLA, know that you support animal health, animal welfare, public health and an increased access to veterinary care in our region!
