Proposition 129 outcome to impact future of Colorado’s veterinarian shortage

In November, Colorado voters can expect a ballot measure that supporters say will help with the state’s veterinarian shortage. However, those opposed to the measure believe it will put pets at risk more than it would help.

There are about 3,800 vets in the state for 2.5 million dogs and cats, and that doesn’t include horses and farm animals. A recent survey of Colorado veterinarians by Colorado State University’s Animal-Human Policy Center found that 70% turn away animals weekly because their practices are overloaded.

At the Dumb Friends League, the veterinarian shortage is haunting their Veterinary Hospital at CSU Spur. The organization tells CBS Colorado they are seeing the impact of this in real-time, having to turn patients away every day due to insufficient resources.

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