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Veterinary Staffing Solutions: Bridging the Gap Between Demand and Supply

Roo Team
June 19, 2025
Animal Hospitals

If you’re a Vet, Tech, or Hospital manager, you know how tough it can be to find the right help these days. The demand for Vets and Techs is hopping higher than ever, but the supply chain in veterinary employment just can’t keep up. Veterinary staffing solutions aren’t just a quick fix. They’re your new best friend for keeping your team happy and your patients healthy. With more pets in homes and expectations rising faster than a puppy chasing a ball, now’s the time to get creative about how you staff your practice.

Let’s break down why this matters for you, what’s causing the crunch, and most importantly, what you can do to leap over the obstacles and land on your feet.

Why the veterinary staffing gap is real (and not just a bad dream)

More pets means more paw-tients, and more paw-tients means more hands on deck. But here’s the catch: there aren’t enough Vets and Techs to go around. The U.S. is facing a projected shortfall of up to 18,000 Vets by 2033, and over half of all clinics struggle to recruit associate Vets. For Techs and assistants, it’s a similar story. More than half of clinics report shortages. That leaves many teams overworked, understaffed, and feeling like they’re running a marathon with no finish line in sight.

Why is this happening? For starters, a wave of retirements is on the horizon, and fewer new graduates are choosing rural or underserved areas. Add in long hours, student debt, and the emotional toll of the job, and you’ve got a recipe for burnout. The result? Practices are turning away patients, wait times are getting longer, and the quality of care can start to slip.

But here’s the good news: you don’t have to go it alone. There are smarter ways to fill the gaps, keep your team energized, and make sure every pet gets the care they deserve.

What’s really going on in veterinary employment

The supply chain in veterinary employment is more than just hiring. It’s about building a team that can grow with your practice. With so many Vets and Techs working in urban areas, rural clinics often feel left out in the cold. Only about 20% of Vet graduates choose rural practice, which means access to care in those communities is limited. That’s a big problem for pet owners and a big opportunity for anyone willing to step up and help.

Meanwhile, clinics everywhere are feeling the pinch. Nearly 80% of small animal practices have trouble hiring Vets, and the same goes for Techs and assistants. If your team is stretched thin, you’re not alone. But there are ways to lighten the load and make sure you’re not just surviving, but thriving.

How veterinary staffing solutions can help you hop over the hurdles

You don’t have to reinvent the wheel to solve your staffing woes. There are plenty of veterinary staffing solutions out there, and many of them are as easy to use as your favorite app. Here’s a quick rundown of what’s working for other practices:

  • Agency recruiters and executive search consultants: These pros know the industry inside and out. They can help you find the right candidates for both general and specialized roles, so you don’t have to spend your weekends scrolling through resumes.
  • Temporary and relief staffing: Locum Vets and relief Techs can step in when your team needs a break, whether it’s for vacations, sick days, or just a much-needed breather. This keeps your practice running smoothly and gives your permanent staff a chance to recharge.
  • Internship and residency programs: While these take time to pay off, they’re a great way to build your own pipeline of talent. Plus, you get to shape the next generation of Vets and Techs, which is pretty rewarding if you ask us.
  • Outsourcing and virtual assistants: Let’s face it, paperwork is no one’s idea of fun. Outsourcing tasks like scheduling, billing, and client communication can free up your team to focus on what they do best, caring for animals.
  • Streamlining hiring and retention: Make your hiring process as smooth as peanut butter and keep your team happy with competitive pay, flexible schedules, and plenty of opportunities to grow. A little appreciation goes a long way.

How technology is changing the game

You don’t need to be a tech whiz to see how digital tools are making life easier for Vets and Techs. Platforms like Roo connect practices with a vast network of qualified relief workers, so you can fill shifts fast without the hassle of paperwork or payroll headaches. With a pay-per-use model, you only pay for what you need, which means no more monthly fees or long-term contracts. That’s flexibility you can really hop on board with.

Virtual assistants can handle everything from scheduling to client reminders, so your team can spend more time with patients and less time staring at screens. And with online training and free CE events through Roo’s Free CE Events, you can keep your skills sharp without ever leaving the clinic.

Supporting your team (and yourself) through the tough times

Let’s be real: veterinary work isn’t always a walk in the park. Burnout is a real risk, and it’s not just about long hours. The emotional side of the job can take a toll, especially when you’re caring for animals and their humans day in and day out. That’s why it’s so important to take care of your team, and yourself.

Offering flexible schedules, mental health resources, and opportunities for professional development can make a big difference. When your team feels supported, they’re more likely to stick around and give their best. And if you’re looking for ways to boost your own skills or explore new career paths, Roo has plenty of resources to help you hop ahead.

What a day in the life looks like for different roles

Curious about what it’s like to work as a relief Vet or Tech? Here’s a quick peek:

  • Relief Vets: You’ll jump from clinic to clinic, filling in where you’re needed most. Every day is different, and you get to meet new teams, new pets, and new challenges. Relief work pays well, and you get to set your own schedule, perfect for anyone who loves variety and independence. To see all the opportunities available in your area, sign up for Roo and use the Search Shifts feature.
  • Relief Techs: You’re the backbone of the clinic, helping with everything from exams to surgeries. Relief Techs are in high demand, and you can earn a premium for your skills. Plus, you get to work with different teams and learn new tricks along the way.
  • Virtual assistants: You’ll handle the behind-the-scenes stuff, like scheduling, billing, and client communication. It’s a great way to use your organizational skills and stay connected to the veterinary world, even if you’re not in the clinic every day.

How to break into relief work or new roles

If you’re thinking about making a move, here’s how to get started:

  • For Relief Vets: You’ll need your DVM credentials and, in some cases, DEA registration for certain shifts. You can see all the opportunities available in your area by signing up for Roo and using the Search Shifts feature.
  • For Relief Techs: Make sure your credentials are up to date, and consider getting certified in specialized areas like anesthesia or emergency care. The more skills you have, the more opportunities you’ll find.
  • For virtual assistants: Brush up on your tech skills and look for online training or certification programs. Many clinics are looking for reliable, detail-oriented people to help them stay organized.
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Making the most of professional development

Continuing education is key to staying ahead in this fast-paced field. Roo offers free CE events where you can learn new skills, network with other professionals, and stay up to date on the latest trends. Whether you’re looking to earn more, take on new challenges, or just keep your brain sharp, there’s always something new to learn. Check out Roo’s upcoming events to see what’s available.

What’s next for veterinary staffing solutions?

The future of veterinary employment is all about flexibility, technology, and teamwork. Relief work is on the rise, with some experts predicting that locum and relief roles will make up more than 10% of all paid veterinary employment by the end of 2025. That means more opportunities for Vets and Techs to set their own schedules, earn more, and find the work-life balance they deserve.

For clinics, this shift means adapting to new ways of working. You might need to update your scheduling systems, streamline onboarding, and offer competitive rates for relief staff. But the payoff is worth it: a happier, healthier team and better care for your patients. Hospitals looking to boost revenue and streamline relief staffing can find helpful resources and success stories on Roo’s hospital resources page.

The last word (with a little wordplay)

When it comes to veterinary staffing solutions, the key is to stay flexible, stay connected, and keep hopping forward. Whether you’re a Vet, Tech, or Hospital manager, you’ve got what it takes to bridge the gap between demand and supply. With the right tools, the right team, and a little creativity, you can make sure every pet gets the care they deserve, and every team member gets the support they need.

If you’re ready to take the next leap, check out Roo’s free CE events, explore new career opportunities, or just reach out for advice. We’re here to help you every step of the way, because at Roo, we believe in making veterinary work easier, smarter, and a whole lot more fun.

Common questions about veterinary staffing solutions

Let’s tackle some of the most common questions head-on:

1. What staffing solutions are available for veterinarians?

Answer : Vets can find jobs through agency recruiters, temporary or relief staffing platforms, virtual assistant roles, and internship programs. Relief work is especially popular for its flexibility and higher pay.

2. How do staffing agencies address demand-supply gaps in veterinary staffing?

Answer : Staffing agencies connect qualified Vets and Techs with clinics that need help, filling gaps quickly and efficiently. They specialize in both general and specialized roles, making it easier for clinics to find the right fit.

3. What trends influence veterinary employment?

Answer : Rising pet ownership, limited Vet school seats, high burnout rates, and the growing use of technology and virtual assistants are shaping the future of veterinary employment.

4. How can I find relief work as a Vet or Tech?

Answer : Sign up for a platform like Roo, update your credentials, and start searching for shifts in your area. It’s that easy to get started.

5. What can clinics do to attract and retain staff?

Answer : Offer competitive pay, flexible schedules, mental health support, and opportunities for professional growth. A positive work environment makes all the difference.

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