In a recent segment highlighting the challenges faced by large animal veterinarians, the shortage of professionals in this field was underscored as a pressing issue for farmers across Virginia and the nation. The segment featured Dr. McCall, a dedicated veterinarian who travels to various farms, providing essential medical care to livestock, including alpacas and cows.

Dr. McCall shared her experiences, revealing the personal sacrifices made in her career, including a lengthy struggle to pay off student loans, which she completed at age 42. She emphasized the passion required to work in this field, noting that financial incentives are often lacking compared to small animal practices. Despite the challenges, she expressed gratitude for the support from farmers, who often provide her with food and other tokens of appreciation.

The segment also highlighted a concerning statistic from a 2021 USDA review, which found that over 500 counties in the U.S. have not had a farm animal veterinarian for at least five years. This shortage is critical, as large animal vets play a vital role in preventing livestock disease outbreaks and ensuring food safety. Only a small percentage of new veterinary graduates are entering food animal practices, prompting calls for increased financial aid to attract more students to this essential field.

As the segment concluded, viewers were reminded of the importance of mental health resources for farmers, with the AGRISTREX helpline available for those in need. The ongoing challenges in farming and veterinary care highlight the interconnectedness of healthy farms and healthy communities.