We all love our four-legged friends and would do anything to keep them safe, but what happens if they get hurt and there’s no veterinarian to help them?

North Central is experiencing a shortage of veterinarians and veterinary technicians, which can affect the health of pets in the Valley.

Dr. Julia Schuab, a veterinarian in the Arizona Humane Society’s Second Chance Animal Trauma Hospital treats a dog (photo courtesy of the Arizona Humane Society).

Dr. Julia Schuab, a veterinarian in the Arizona Humane Society’s Second Chance Animal Trauma Hospital treats a dog (photo courtesy of the Arizona Humane Society).

“If we don’t have the doctors and the staff then there are less appointments that are available for the pets,” said Dr. Melissa Thompson, vice president of Medical Operations at the Arizona Humane Society (AHS).

Thompson suspects there is a shortage in the veterinarian field due to Baby Boomers retiring and closing their practices and an insufficient number of students graduating from veterinary schools. It takes around eight years for someone to go through veterinary school and become a certified veterinarian.

AHS is looking to hire veterinarians and veterinary technicians. Thompson encourages those who have a passion for helping animals and who might be interested in becoming a veterinarian to apply to become a veterinary technician. AHS provides on-the-job training for those interested in becoming a veterinary technician. It also has an open position for those wanting to be a receptionist.

Because of the shortage, it is advised to keep your pets healthy and up-to-date on shots. Taking extra precautions to keep your pet healthy include keeping dogs on a leash, not giving your pets human food and keeping them on a steady diet.

For more information on where to apply for a veterinarian, veterinary technician or receptionist position at the Arizona Humane Society visit www.azhumane.org/careers.

Maryn Weeks is a student in Arizona State University’s Walter Cronkite School of Journalism and Mass Communication.

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