Current Demographics of Veterinary Professional in the US

The veterinary profession in the U.S. has seen notable demographic shifts, reflecting broader societal changes. Historically male-dominated, the field now features a significant increase in female veterinarians, who represent the majority of recent graduates and practicing professionals, according to recent data, and there are some other changes to note.

 

Key Demographic Breakdown:

 

•  Gender: 62.9% of veterinarians are female, compared to 37.1% male. This marks a significant increase from 2010 when women comprised only 50.1% of the workforce.

• Race/Ethnicity: 83.1% are White, 6.1% Hispanic or Latino, 4.8% Asian, 1.4% Black or African American, and 0.3% American Indian and Alaska Native.

• Age: The average age is 43 years, with 57% over 40, 36% between 30 and 40, and 8% aged 20 to 30.

•  LGBTQ+ Representation: About 15% identify as lesbian, gay, bisexual, or transgender, reflecting growing acceptance in the profession.

• Employment Settings: 52% work in private practice, 24% in educational institutions, 15% in government roles, and 66.6% exclusively with companion animals like dogs and cats.

 

Implications for the Veterinary Profession

 

The rise of female and diverse veterinarians is a positive trend, bringing new perspectives to animal care. However, achieving broader racial and ethnic representation remains a challenge. The average age of veterinarians indicates a shift toward younger professionals, which infuses the industry with innovative ideas and modern approaches to veterinary care.

 

As demographics shift, practice owners should prioritize diversity and inclusion within their teams. This strategy not only enhances employee satisfaction and retention but also fosters a more empathetic environment for animal care. Embracing these changes enables the veterinary profession to thrive and better serve the needs of an increasingly diverse society.

 

Do you need help with finding associates to join your practice? we’ve been in the recruiting business for more than 30 years, and since 2020, my team and I have submitted over 600 veterinarians to over 240 privately owned clinics. We understand the special requirements of finding the right doctor for private practices, and my team has consistently put our method to work for our clients, resulting in an 88 percent success rate in presenting quality candidates within the first 90 days of the recruitment process. Allow me the chance to explain how we can find the right match for your practice. I look forward to our conversation.