Global Veterinary Challenges 2026: US and Canadian Experience for Veterinary Business Development in Ukraine
The world is changing, yet the challenges faced by veterinarians and clinic owners across the globe remain remarkably similar. In June, the General Assembly of the Federation of Veterinarians of Europe (FVE) took place in Rovaniemi, Finland, as documented in the official file Agenda GA Finland Final.pdf. During the session, European colleagues heard presentations from representatives of the American Veterinary Medical Association (AVMA) and the Canadian Veterinary Medical Association (CVMA).
These presentations raised critical issues, ranging from the staffing crisis and the financial debt burdening young professionals to the protection of veterinarians against online attacks. The PO "Society of Veterinary Business Owners" (uacbbc.org) analyzed the experience of international colleagues in order to adapt best practices for the Ukrainian veterinary community.
Staffing Shortages and Financial Stability: The US Experience
Representatives of the American community emphasize that professional isolation, burnout, and financial difficulties significantly impact workforce retention in the profession. Today, the debt of many veterinary graduates in the US exceeds $200,000.
A doctor's professional choices are always linked to family circumstances: income level, health insurance, and opportunities for professional growth.
To address these challenges, associations are actively implementing:
- State and regional grants to support veterinary services.
- Mentorship and financial planning programs for early-career veterinarians.
- Development of telemedicine as a tool to make veterinary care more accessible without compromising professional standards.
PO "Society of Veterinary Business Owners" Position:
The accessibility of veterinary services in Ukraine must not be achieved by devaluing the veterinarian's work or lowering treatment standards. We must help teams communicate effectively with clients regarding treatment costs and options while upholding professional integrity.
Protection Against Cyberbullying and Mental Health: The Canadian Experience.
A presentation by Dr. Maggie Brown from Canada shed light on another aspect of the veterinary business—one that is extremely relevant to Ukraine.
This year, the Canadian Veterinary Medical Association (CVMA) has focused on protecting the profession's reputation and providing psychological support to veterinarians.
Here are two unique initiatives from Canada worth adopting:
- Anti-Cyberbullying Hotline: A 24/7 support service for veterinary clinics facing a wave of online hate or organized attacks. Clinics receive clear instructions and resources to protect their reputation.
- Round-the-clock peer-to-peer psychological support: Previously available only to doctors, this service has now been extended to all clinic staff, as assistants and administrators suffer from stress just as much.
In addition, a large-scale PR campaign has been launched in Canada to boost public trust in veterinarians. It aims to show the public that the work of a veterinary professional goes beyond treating pets to encompass food safety, biosecurity control, and the health of society as a whole.
Uniting for the future of veterinary medicine in Ukraine.
Global experience demonstrates that no single veterinary association or clinic can resolve issues such as staffing shortages, rights protection, or mental burnout on its own. We operate in diverse political and economic environments, yet we share the same responsibility.
The values voiced by veterinary leaders at the FVE General Assembly fully align with the mission of our РO "Society of Veterinary Business Owners":
- Collaboration and knowledge sharing: If a specific region or country has already found an effective solution (such as a protocol for dealing with online hate), others can adapt that resource to their own needs.
- Professional growth: Creating conditions that make the veterinary business in Ukraine stable, secure, and attractive to young professionals.
- Advocacy and protection of interests: Representing the veterinary community at national and international levels.
The Ukrainian veterinary sector needs to integrate into the European and global community. Join the РO "Society of Veterinary Business Owners" at uacbbc.org to work together on implementing global best practices, protecting your rights, and advancing veterinary medicine in Ukraine based on science, service, and mutual respect.
Author of the publication: Nataliia Klietsova, Public Relations Manager at the РO "Society of Veterinary Business Owners".
