Veterinarians to Push US Lawmakers for Increasing Vet Access in Rural Areas

On April 27, about 200 veterinarians will head to Capitol Hill to meet with senators and representatives to talk about legislation that will increase access to veterinary services in rural areas. They also want to talk about legislation to help in reducing the spread of diseases that pose a threat to animal and public health.
The American Veterinary Medical Association’s annual fly-in will feature attendees from 48 states and 20 veterinary schools. They’ll talk to officials about passing the Veterinary Medicine Loan Repayment Program and the Healthy Dog Importation Act.
The AVMA says it’s united in asking Congress for help alleviating a shortage of veterinarians by assisting with the significant obstacle of student debt.
The group also says strengthening dog importation standards will decrease the chances of future disease outbreaks from the 1.2 million dogs imported every year into the U.S.
The goal is to maintain vibrant rural communities while keeping animals and people safe.