Veterinary workforce: Who we are & how we practice

Who makes up the veterinary profession, where do they work, and how do they practice? From new graduates to practice owners, this session will give you up-to-date insights into workforce demographics, practice types, labor supply and demand, compensation, hours worked, and emerging trends. Explore the current state of the veterinary workforce, drawing on the latest findings from AVMA’s annual Graduating Senior Survey and Census of Veterinarians.

This session originally was presented at AVMA’s 2025 Veterinary Business and Economic Forum. 

LEARNING OBJECTIVES: 

  • Analyze the current composition of the veterinary profession, including key demographics and practice types.
  • Understand trends in the veterinary labor market and factors influencing supply and demand for veterinarians. 
  • Compare compensation and hours worked for veterinarians across different settings. 


 

Dr. Christopher Doherty is assistant director for strategic business research and outreach at the AVMA. In this role he analyzes data about new and early career veterinarians, and works with the Veterinary Economics Division to translate research into tools, resources, and actionable items that veterinarians can utilize and implement in their practices and careers. He earned his veterinary degree from the Ontario Veterinary College and a master’s degree in business administration from McMaster University’s DeGroote School of Business. He also is a chartered business valuator.