With the class of 2011 graduating new vets are facing challenges that no recent grad has ever faced. There are 32 jobs available for 720 applications on the AAEP web site. That means there are 23 resumes for every job.  It is now easier to get into vet school than it is to get a job as a vet upon graduation. More and more I am seeing new vets start their own practices following an internship. To do so immediately after graduating would doom the endeavor to failure but after an internship it might be a necessity in spite of the challenges. There are 2 reasons why a post intern grad might start their own practice.

•There are no jobs. If you want to be a vet and nobody is hiring what are you going to do?

•Cultural disconnect between older practice owners and new grads. Older vets have a work ethic unique to them. Many want their associates to work as hard as they do regardless of the strain this puts on family life or outside interests.

An increasing number of new start ups could have some unintended consequences on the veterinary industry:

•A new business may cut prices with the hope of getting new customers. A new vet will not have the appreciation of the difficulties or challenges of the job and likely won’t value their skill and education. The only consideration will be getting work.

•New vets might have a better sense of customer service and a willingness to try newer medical techniques in an effort to differentiating their practices and grow very quickly

So where does this leave the older and established practices and the young bucks starting out? This might sound counter intuitive but the best solution is taking the high road and arranging introductory meetings with other practices. Encouraging professionalism will benefit everyone the most. The older vet can explain why they price the way they do. The younger vet can discuss newer techniques. The end result should be mutual respect.

At the end of the day it is in the best interest of everyone if our profession is conducted with integrity that does not diminish the value of veterinarians in the eyes of our clients.

Source: Equine Vet Business