The UK’s veterinary sector is undergoing rapid change, driven by workforce shortages, growing demand for services, and evolving expectations around work-life balance and technology. Here’s what the future may hold:
1. Veterinary Surgeon Shortages Will Continue
The UK is facing a prolonged shortage of veterinary surgeons. This issue has been worsened by a significant drop in EU registrants following Brexit, with a 68% reduction in incoming European vets.
Although domestic training programmes are expanding, the time required to qualify means the shortage is unlikely to ease soon.
The industry is grappling with a long-term supply gap for qualified veterinary surgeons.
2. Veterinary Nursing Roles Will Increase
Unlike the shortage of vets, the number of registered veterinary nurses is projected to rise significantly. By 2035, the supply of veterinary nurses may exceed demand by over 20% which could lead to an oversupply.
The veterinary nursing profession is on a growth trajectory, but balance is needed to avoid saturation.
3. Greater Focus on Well-being and Work-Life Balance
Veterinary practices are placing more emphasis on staff well-being, flexible working, and mental health support. This shift is in response to high stress levels and burnout, which have long affected those in the profession.
Practices that invest in employee wellbeing are likely to attract and retain more staff.
4. Corporate Consolidation Will Reshape the Sector
Large corporate groups now own a significant share of veterinary practices. While this has brought investment and standardisation, concerns have been raised about rising prices and service quality. The Competition and Markets Authority (CMA) is currently investigating these impacts.
The rise of corporate ownership is transforming both career paths and client expectations.
5. Technology Will Enhance, Not Replace, Veterinary Care
Telemedicine, AI tools, and digital platforms are becoming more common in veterinary settings. These technologies are improving diagnostics, appointment management, and client communication — but they are supplementing, not replacing, hands-on clinical care.
Tech-savvy professionals will be in high demand as digital tools become standard.
6. Increased Demand for Specialists
Pet owners are seeking more advanced and specialised veterinary services, leading to increased demand for professionals in areas such as emergency care, exotic animals, and diagnostics.
Practices will need to recruit or develop specialists to stay competitive.
7. Staffing Costs Will Rise
With the shortage of vets and competition for talent, salaries and employment costs are rising. Practices are also investing more in training and retention, which may contribute to higher fees for clients.
The financial pressure of staffing is likely to impact pricing and profitability.
8. Strategic Workforce Planning Will Be Key
Veterinary employers are increasingly adopting long-term workforce strategies. This includes growing talent pipelines, enhancing training opportunities, and improving recruitment and retention practices.
The future of veterinary staffing will depend on proactive planning and investment in people.
Final Thoughts
The UK veterinary staffing market faces complex challenges — from talent shortages to rising client expectations and technological disruption. Practices that invest in training, well-being, and innovation will be better positioned to build resilient, future-ready teams.
