Summary
Although there are sufficient vets in total, there are concerns about whether there are enough large animal practitioners. The economics of farming is leading to less use of veterinary services and is further reducing the attractiveness of large animal practice. At the same time the Government's animal health and welfare and veterinary surveillance strategies appear to require a greater on-farm presence of veterinary surgeons.
Defra needs to be aware of the impact its strategies and changes to food safety rules will have on current and future demand for veterinary surgeons. The Department should also address the supply of vets by, for example, reviewing its funding of veterinary research which underpins teaching. It should also work with the veterinary colleges to examine other aspects of training.
The State Veterinary Service has a key role to play in delivering the animal health and welfare and veterinary surveillance strategies. It must bring forward appropriate policies, and it must also improve its links with private sector vets to ensure that all those who play a part in improving the animal health and welfare of the nation are equipped to do so.
