According to a 2019 American Association of Equine Practitioners (AAEP) Equine Economic Survey Report, most equine veterinarians knew they wanted to be a vet before the age of 10. So many choose this career path because of a calling they felt, and a passion and love for the horse. Still, many areas of the United States and beyond currently face a shortage of equine practitioners to provide veterinary care to horses and other equids. This equine welfare issue will only further intensify without action to address the diminishing number of equine veterinarians. The key factors the AAEP identified that are contributing to the dilemma are: compensation, strategies for effective emergency coverage, workplace/practice culture, internships and supporting the growth and development of the equine veterinary student. This month’s podcast shines a light on what the AAEP and the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) are doing to help address the issue to help current veterinarians and encourage the growth of the future.

HORSES IN THE MORNING Episode 3277  – Show Notes and Links:

• Your Hosts: Julie Broadway (President) and Megan Arszman (Marketing & Communications) of the American Horse Council
• Sponsored by: Equine Discounts with NTRA
• Guest: David Foley from the American Association of Equine Practitioners (AAEP)
• Guest: Drs. Bob Smith and Kathe Bjork from the United States Department of Agriculture
• (USDA)
• Link: AAEP Equine Veterinary Sustainability Initiative
• Link: Not One More Vet
• Link: USDA National Institute of Food and Agriculture Veterinarian Shortage Situation Map
• Link: USDA Veterinary Medicine Loan Repayment Program
• Link: USDA Veterinary Services Grant Program
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