Saskatchewan Invests in Studying Veterinarian Workforce to Address Shortages

The province of Saskatchewan is allocating $100,000 to a workforce study, aimed at discerning the veterinary labour market needs and formulating strategies to retain veterinarians within the region. This initiative is in partnership with the Saskatchewan Veterinary Medical Association (SVMA). After the 2020 Canadian Veterinary Medical Association Workforce Study confirmed veterinarian shortages in Saskatchewan, this new research, conducted by Malatest, aims to glean insights into the specific recruitment and retention challenges faced by the province and identify which interventions or incentives might be most efficacious to mitigate these issues. Additionally, the study will examine the number of training seats available for both veterinarians and veterinary technologists in the province, ascertain the exact magnitude of the shortage, and explore strategies to bolster the livestock industry with superior support. Both Agricultural and Advanced Education Ministries’ financial contributions are geared toward enabling a survey that will elucidate optimal retention strategies and assure that Saskatchewan livestock producers maintain access to vital professional animal care support.