The annual Veterinary Practice Survey has revealed that there is a recruitment crisis facing the sector, due to a growth in demand for services from vets. The survey conducted by advisory firm HLB Sheehan Quinn, shows that this is mainly due to an increase in pet ownership during the Covid-19 pandemic. The findings additionally indicate that the sector is facing “an acute talent shortage”.
Statistics released, indicate that 27% of practices reported dealing with pet owners who are experiencing behavioural issues due to poor socialisation, as their owners return to the workplace. With demand failing to decrease, 61% of practices responding to the survey highlighted staff resources as their major challenge for 2022, while 69% plan on a recruitment push this year to cope.
It is also expected that senior veterinary practice owners will exit the market. The survey shows that 40% of existing veterinary practice owners are already considering selling up. More than 47% of the sector’s employees surveyed are over the age of 51, with 60% of practice owners having not currently identified a succession partner.
Managing partner of HLB Sheehan Quinn, Mark Butler, comments on the findings by saying that “we have found that growing demand for veterinary services is creating opportunities for ambitious practice owners, but long hours and heavy workloads continue to be a heavy burden on many vets, resulting in burnout.”
“It is also notable that acute staff shortages are likely to result in further consolidation this year as ambitious practices look to mergers and acquisitions as a means to increase capacity and access additional resources.” Butler adds.