Our equine population is thriving, but all those horses need lots of care. Experts are concerned about looming shortages of veterinarians, farriers, equine dentists, and other professionals critical to the health of our horses.
Are we losing veterinarians?
Demographics, economics and the staggering increases in fuel costs are contributing to the shortage of large-animal vets. Veterinary students graduate with debts in excess of $100,000; and many opt out of large animal practices.
The tip of the iceberg...
Along with declining numbers of large-animal vets, other critical professional ranks are shrinking too.