By 2035, Wallonia could lose half of its rural veterinarians if the current situation persists, with provinces like Luxembourg particularly affected by the shortage, according to findings from the Veterinary Observatory presented by the Professional Union of Veterinarians (UPV) at the Libramont Agricultural Fair.
Established in 2024, the Veterinary Observatory aims to gather and analyse data to map out veterinarians in Wallonia.
In 2024, the number of veterinarians registered with the Order increased slightly to 2,950 from 2,904 in 2023, yet this rise masks a troubling reality as many veterinarians leave the profession within 10 years, especially those aged 30 to 39.
Additionally, nearly half of active veterinarians only treat small pets, and veterinary students show little interest in rural areas.
Currently, there is roughly one rural veterinarian for every 2,000 cattle in southern Belgium, a ratio that worsens to one vet per 2,800 cattle in Luxembourg province. The replacement rate for veterinarians is particularly concerning there and in Hainaut, with the UPV warning of a potential “veterinary desert” in Luxembourg.
To address the risk of losing 50% of its rural vets by 2035, the UPV suggests early, paid rural internships for veterinary students, the creation of a start-up grant, and fiscal support measures.
The role of rural veterinarians is vital for the food chain, due to their proximity to livestock farmers and their involvement in monitoring animal disease outbreaks.
