By Adam Jacobson
There are concerns veterinarians around the country are nearing breaking point as the industry faces major staffing shortages which are being compounded by border restrictions on international replacements.
The New Zealand Veterinary Association says the shortage is a problem the industry has had forever (file image).
Photo: 123RF
A survey of practices and animal hospitals conducted by the New Zealand Veterinary Association (NZVA) found a shortage of 120 vets, most of them needed in permanent full time positions.
In September the government granted a mass immigration exemption for 30 vets who largely worked with farm animals, but only 19 have been approved.