Veterinary professionals in Manitoba are feeling the impacts of the pandemic and are asking everyone for support and to be patient.
In a statement, the Manitoba Veterinary Medical Association says “prior to the COVID-19 Pandemic, Manitoba, like other Canadian jurisdictions, was facing shortages in veterinary professionals, including veterinarians and veterinary technologists.
Shortages were felt across practice settings from public sector food animal production/inspection services to private sector companion animal services. This shortage has already caused in part noted compassion fatigue amongst veterinary professionals and high levels of stress.
During the pandemic, the shortage of veterinary professionals has surged, while the demand for service has increased and those providing service have faced an increased workload to ensure that veterinary services are provided in a safe manner to prevent the spread of COVID-19 to clients, staff and the public at large.
Veterinary professionals in Manitoba have reported an increase in aggressive, abusive and otherwise unsafe interactions between clients and veterinarians, veterinary technologists, and other clinic staff. These types of interactions harm not only the veterinary team, but other clients and patients as well.
Veterinary professionals in Manitoba are asking that public practice patience, calmness and compassion when obtaining veterinary services.”
