Document type: Press release from the Swiss Veterinary Society (SVS)
Author : SVS
Preview: More places to study veterinary medicine and incentives to ensure a secure supply of veterinary medical professionals in all regions. These are the measures being called for by the Swiss Veterinary Society (SVS) to combat an incipient shortage of qualified veterinarians.
Vacancies in veterinary practices are rising. This dearth of qualified staff threatens the veterinary sector with a shortage of the basic veterinary care needed to guarantee emergency provision throughout the country. In extreme cases, this can lead to sick or injured pets and livestock receiving inadequate care or no care at all. It is the view of the Swiss Veterinary Society (SVS) that action is urgently needed. The association is currently working on solutions that involve partner organizations such as the Vetsuisse Faculty, which offers advanced specialist training in the cantons of Bern and Zurich, and the relevant federal offices.
The task is complex and needs to be tackled at different levels. In a catalogue of proposed measures, the SVS is calling for additional places to study veterinary medicine to meet the growing need among young veterinarians for regular working hours and part-time posts. It also proposes a review of admission requirements for courses of study, and the creation of incentive systems within the agricultural policy network for farm veterinarians in outlying regions.
On May 4, 2023, at the instigation of the SVS, National Councillor Lars Guggisberg (SVP/BE) tabled a formal request, co-signed by National Councillor Lorenz Hess (Le Centre/BE), for information from the Federal Council on these proposals. In its response, the Federal Council acknowledged that the provision of basic veterinary care is of great importance in Switzerland, but was not prepared to decide on any immediate measures. The SVS considers this response to be unsatisfactory. It should be remembered that the number of companion animals in Switzerland has increased in recent years. To guarantee the welfare of pets and livestock at all times, we need high-quality medical care throughout the country. We need immediate solutions! [For further information, see: Interpellation (23.3542) "Mesures pour lutter contre la pénurie de vétérinaires et pour encourager la relève"
