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AVMA Anticipates No Dire Shortage of Veterinarians

Dan Cattle, Dairy, Livestock, Livestock News

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A recent analysis of the drivers of supply and demand for veterinary services shows that the number of graduates from existing veterinary colleges is likely enough to meet demand through 2035. The conclusion comes after a study commissioned by the American Veterinary Medicine Association (AVMA). The projections in this analysis do not justify a conclusion of overall excess capacity or a capacity shortage by 2035. 

Meantime, the population of veterinarians is likely to grow faster than pet-owning households if all 13 proposed veterinary schools become accredited. With 33 colleges already recognized by the AVMA Council on Education, this would represent almost a 40 percent increase in the next ten years. 

Vet visits are declining from a peak achieved in 2021 and 2022. Data shows prices for those veterinary services have been increasing as well. The Veterinary Industry Tracker says that’s caused a slowdown in the volume of vet services. 

(From the National Association of Farm Broadcasters)