Idaho is facing a veterinarian shortage

TWIN FALLS, Idaho (KMVT/KSVT) – The shortage of veterinarians, particularly those who work with larger animals, is a looming crisis in Idaho.

Robert Collier, department head of animal, veterinary and food sciences, said the average age of a veterinarian in the field is more than 50 years old. With many retiring, there aren’t many younger people to take their place. Only three to four percent of graduates enter this field. One of the biggest problems is payment.

“Rural veterinarians, particularly large animal veterinarians, are paid less than small animal veterinarians,” Collier said. “Although one could argue that working with large animals is more strenuous and dangerous.”

Collier said Idaho lawmakers have identified the shortage of veterinarians as a major problem that could impact the state’s agricultural economy.

“We are number three in the dairy industry. We are number six among sheep. We are number 15 cattle, so a lot of animals that need care,” Collier said.

Lawmakers have taken some steps to increase the number of veterinarians. While there is no veterinary school in Idaho, Collier said the state worked with Washington State University to guarantee 10 spots at their school for Idaho students. They are also seeking a similar agreement with Utah State University.

Collier, along with other members of the Veterinary Needs Task Force, said the state needs to ensure students stay in the state to work. To achieve this goal, they recommend a targeted rural veterinary program.

“We will fund a certain number of students, about 10 students per year. Commit to being a large animal veterinarian in Idaho and paying tuition. If they stay in Idaho they don’t have to pay that back, but if they leave they have to pay back the entire tuition,” Collier said.

Discussions are currently ongoing, but Collier believes something needs to be done soon or the livestock industry will feel the impact.

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