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Affordable, professionalised vet care for Victoria

On Tuesday 2nd August, Andy Meddick MP proposed a motion to Parliament that would be an Australian first if adopted by the Victorian Government - Veticare

GREAT NEWS! The motion passed, demonstrating the support and the need for reform - and importantly, acknowledging the problems that currently exist in the animal health sector. This is a vital step in securing Veticare. 

Why Victoria needs affordable and professionalised vet care

Pets and wildlife are not getting the care that they need because animal owners and rescuers can’t afford or access the care they require. Despite their willingness, vets are often unable to provide high level care to all animals who pass through their doors - due to a range of reasons, such as staff shortages, resourcing and the financial restraints of owners.

This crisis has been exacerbated by the pandemic, with more Victorians taking on a pet than ever before, coupled with vets choosing to leave the industry and seek out other opportunities. In particular, this has mostly impacted regional and rural areas - with a number of regional centres no longer having access to the veterinary care they need and the closest emergency vet clinic being located in metropolitan Melbourne. 

The mental and physical health benefits of having a pet are widely recognised, yet often the ability to have one is restricted only to those who can afford it. We believe all Victorians should have the opportunity and privilege of the companionship of animals. 

On top of this, there are countless volunteers across Victoria working in both the wildlife rescue and companion animal rescue space. They are often self-funding their work or getting by on donations from the public. We believe their contribution to caring for Victoria’s lost and displaced animals should be recognised, professionalised and supported by the Victorian Government.

Aim

  • To improve access, cost, and availability of proper health care for all pets and wildlife.
  • To improve conditions in the veterinary sector, ensuring retention of both vets and nurses.
  • To continue the training and promotion of veterinary nurses to take on complex duties including basic wildlife training, wildlife assessment and drug administration (based on the ‘nurse practitioner’ model in human medicine).
  • To recognise the skills and experience in Victoria’s wildlife and animal rescue sector and help to further professionalise and support their work.

 

For a full explanation of the Funding, Staffing and Animal Welfare Challenges and our Solutions, read this!

 

Downloadables