10/30/2022
Visiting the Veterinary ER and Veterinary hospitals in general…
Having been asked multiple times “Why the wait?” Or “Why aren’t ER’s / hospitals taking patients?” More often than not, the question is asked with an under tone of aggression perhaps from frustration.
The real deal is this:
All veterinary hospitals are understaffed! Why?
Veterinary graduating classes are down by 7% from years gone by.
Technician classes are down by 15%
Neither profession can afford the student loans now up to $325,000 for a veterinarian,
Technician programs run up to $100,000.
I was recently told by a lay person that Veterinarians make a lot of money and should be able to pay that loan off quickly!
If the veterinarian does an internship during their first year post graduation they are considered lucky if they make $30,000. The year after that they might make $60,000
The average veterinarian might make $80,000 annually after those first two years if they survive.
The average certified technician salary starts at $16.00 hourly and that is because minimum wage went up!!
The reputation of the abuse veterinary staff members endure is also getting around making the field less and less desirable which correlates with the increased su***de rate, another reason for staff shortage.
People often state that veterinary care should be ‘less expensive or free.’
The fees presented to the client, more often than not bring out the worst in people with the “how dare you charge this!” Then there is the name calling and the threats. No one needs that.
Be kind and buy pet insurance!
What astounds me is that often times the amount a person pays for a kitten or puppy up to thousands of dollars yet they want free veterinary care?
How is it that they drive cars that cost
Tens of thousands or go on vacations also for thousands?
Of course, I understand that things do happen during pet ownership such as job loss, retirement, tragedies to name a few.
I have had all of the above happen to me and as a result have often considered leaving the field, in turn leaving yet another hospital short staffed. Along with encouragement from family, friends and fellow veterinary professionals I’m staying.
If you find this post helpful please share.
Feel free to ask any questions or state concerns, in the comments. I will respond!
Thank you so much.
