The Canadian Veterinary Medical Association is calling on the federal government to recruit and train more foreign-trained veterinarians, as the industry struggles with a workforce shortage.
“This shortage has significant implications for animal health and welfare, public health, the Canadian economy, communities across Canada, as well as the well-being of individual veterinary professionals and paraprofessionals,” says CVMA President Dr. Trevor Lawson.
He adds as a result of the shortage, many veterinarians are suffering from mental health concerns, “A concerning proportion of veterinarians experience burnout and mental health issues. One in five report suicidal ideation during their careers. Further to that 89 per cent of veterinarians surveyed across Canada have suffered from burnout, which includes symptoms of high exhaustion high depersonalization and low professional efficacy.”
The Association stresses the shortage can be addressed by recruiting and onboarding foreign-trained veterinarians (FTVs) and establishing a national testing centre for internationally educated veterinarians, and by ensuring there are dedicated funds to support veterinary infrastructure.
“Veterinary medicine supports animal health and welfare, public health and a healthy environment which together are foundational for the health of Canadians and the Canadian economy,” said Dr. Lawson.
“Given the severe workforce shortage in our profession, Canada needs a veterinary workforce enhancement program that supports expansion and innovation of clinical teaching, training, and research to develop the next generation of veterinarians in response to societal demands.”
Projections indicate, without help, this shortage will continue until at least 2031.
The CVMA represents over 25,000 veterinarians and registered technicians and technologists who provide vital care and services for millions of clients including small and large animals across Canada.
