is there a demand for veterinarians

We've known some really smart dogs and cats, including one Poodle who could open any door in the house, no matter how slippery the doorknob. But even the smartest pets can't do everything for themselves. And they definitely need pet owners and veterinary teams to make sure they get preventive care all year round.

That's why Banfield's working hard to increase the number of veterinary professionals and help pets get the medical care they need.

A recent Banfield study reveals an estimated 75 million pets in the U.S. may not have access to the veterinary care they need by 2030. One potential reason? A critical shortage of veterinarians, including vets from diverse backgrounds.

“The veterinary profession is not only essential – we've had an increase in demand” said Brian Garish, Banfield's president. “Banfield is committed to partnering with the veterinary industry to ensure the talent pipeline grows and diversifies to meet the evolving needs of pets, people, and society.”

Banfield is making a $1 million investment over the next year in equity, inclusion, and diversity efforts to increase representation, offer training, and support industry efforts to improve the diversity pipeline. We're also partnering with Mars Veterinary Health, Royal Canin, and the Tuskegee University College of Veterinary Medicine to launch the Banfield & Royal Canin Student Support Fund, with an initial $125,000 gift to help those in the Tuskegee veterinary program who have financial need.

“With nearly 70% of Black veterinarians in the U.S. being Tuskegee graduates, we’re inspired by the work Banfield and Royal Canin are doing to continue to push for a more equitable, inclusive and diverse profession,” said Dr. Ruby Perry, dean of the Tuskegee University College of Veterinary Medicine. “We believe strongly in equality of opportunity and are honored to accept the $125K gift from both organizations towards helping to remove financial barriers for our students on their path to becoming veterinarians.”

This year, Banfield also announced the launch of the Diversify Veterinary Medicine Coalition an industry-wide effort to address these pressing issues and increase representation for Black, Indigenous and People of Color in the veterinary industry. This coalition will create resources for the wider profession which Banfield will share out as they are developed.

Banfield is proud to continue to partner with the veterinary services industry and amplify the important work in pet care that so many veterinary practices and professionals have already been doing.

It’s crucial for pets, the people who love them, and all the amazing people in the veterinary profession, now and in the future.