The boost in pet ownership is just one reason demand for vet services has increased. Our expectations have risen too. More than ever,our pets are considered family members rather than mere companion animals. That’s affecting the choices we make when they become ill.
“As veterinarians,we love to be able to do everything to help treat an animal and help get them healthy. But it does take a lot more veterinary resources,” says Bronwyn Orr,the president of the Australian Veterinary Association.
“We genuinely care,and we want to do what’s best for the animal. A lot of times we don’t have that capability,and that causes a lot of moral stress and dilemma.”
The move towards demanding expensive treatments like diagnostic tests,ultrasounds,x-rays,surgery and rehabilitation is one of number of factors putting pressure on vets,especially if clients aren’t in the situation to pay for these services.
Australia graduates about 700 vets a year. Most have studied for seven years or more to enter a job with a starting salary of $60,000. And HECS debts are significant – usually $50,000 to $80,000,Orr points out.
‘As a veterinarian,we genuinely care,and we want to do what’s best for the animal. A lot of times we don’t have that capability,and that causes a lot of moral stress and dilemma.’
Bronwyn Orr,Australian Veterinary Association
The majority of our vets work in private practices as small animal veterinarians,but there are plenty of other choices. District vets are employed by state governments or local services to investigate disease on behalf of farmers. Others work in policy on issues from overseas trade of animals through to animal health.