Is the UK training enough vets?

A LEADING Northumberland veterinary practice is calling for the UK to train more vets to meet rising demand.

Bearl Equine Clinic, in Northumberland, employs five vets, but senior figures fear that demand for skilled, trained practitioners is in danger of outstripping supply.

Director Alex Font explains: “Figures from the British Veterinary Association show that we simply aren’t training enough new vets in the UK to meet demand. As a result, our national veterinary profession is heavily reliant on foreign nationals, with around 50 per cent of vets practicing in Britain having moved here from other countries – the great majority from the EU.”

A Spanish national himself, Alex came to the UK 25 years ago thanks to EU principles granting freedom of movement and ensuring his degree is recognised internationally. He became a respected vet, earning the gratitude of animal owners across Northumberland, and eventually became a Director of Bearl Equine Clinic.

He said: “This situation has been developing over the last few years, but now the looming spectre of Brexit isn’t helping. The UK is sending very mixed messages to professionals across the world. There has been a 30 per cent reduction in applications from EU nationals, but the fact is the profession in reliant on their services.

“We haven’t begun to feel the effects at Bearl Equine Clinic yet, but it’s clear across the industry that this shortage is beginning to hit smaller practices. Staff have to work longer hours than ever before, and emergency cover is starting to be contracted out to large corporations, increasing costs. If this goes on, customers could start to see their bills going up dramatically.

“The recent equine flu outbreak has highlighted the national shortage. The UK veterinary industry needs to have enough capacity to absorb unexpected crises like this.”

The equine flu epidemic which has struck British horse racing and other industries over the last few weeks appears to now be under control, not least thanks to professionals like Alex and his team.

He said: “We’ve all been rushed off our feet dealing with the outbreak, but I’m incredibly proud of the whole team at Bearl Equine Clinic. Our vets have been dashing all over the region to treat animals, and my heart goes out to our indomitable receptionists who have been dealing with hundreds of enquiries daily. Thank you everyone for putting in such amazing effort.”

Bearl Equine Clinic is a dedicated equine veterinary practice located in Stocksfield, Northumberland. With highly sought-after specialist facilities, they are uniquely placed to meet the needs of horse owners across the region. Contact the team today at 01661 842542, or visit www.bearlequine.co.uk.