Bigger classes and new student loan forgiveness programs are increasing the number of veterinarians in Kansas, but demand continues to far exceed supply — a situation that has implications for the health of humans as well as animals.
Within the next five years, the nation is expected to be 15,000 veterinarians short of the number needed, said Ralph Richardson, dean of the College of Veterinary Medicine at Kansas State University.
In Kansas, the shortage continues to be acute in large-animal practices, even in areas not considered rural.
Richardson said other shortages are looming, especially in areas that relate to public health and food safety