Survey of UK veterinary students' perceptions about a career in equine practice

Abstract

SummaryBackgroundWorkforce shortages are challenges facing veterinary practice. Anecdotal evidence suggests that veterinary students are less interested in entering equine practice than previously.ObjectivesInvestigate veterinary students' perceptions about equine veterinary education and about working in equine practice.Study designObservational study: online survey.MethodsSurvey distributed via social media to veterinary students in the United Kingdom. Open and closed questions to document intended career path of students and evaluate perceptions about careers in equine practice.ResultsSeven hundred and forty‐four students completed the survey—from 10 veterinary schools. 88.8% intended to work in clinical practice (32.9% mixed; 25.3% small animal; 20.2% equine; 10.9% farm; 10.7% other/undecided). Factors considered most important for their first job included: mentoring and support (47.0%), team and practice culture (26.2%), working hours (including out‐of‐hours; 9.2%), location (6.6%), salary and benefits (5.7%) and familiarity with the practice (3.1%). 55.2% felt there were barriers to entering equine practice. 46.9% had ridden a horse regularly; 14.2% had never ridden. Respondents in clinical years rated their university training in equine practice as ‘Excellent’ (10.0%), ‘Good’ (45.9%), ‘OK’ (35.3%), ‘Poor’ (7.0%) and ‘Rubbish’ (1.8%). 48.9% of respondents felt extra mural studies (EMS) had contributed most to their equine training. Statistical associations were identified between the following variables and intention to work in equine practice: owning a horse, having ever ridden a horse, confidence in handling horses, student membership of BEVA and desire to undertake an internship.Main limitationsPotential selection bias.Conclusions20% of students reported an intention to work in equine practice, but risk of selection bias. The results indicate a potential mismatch between the number of students interested in equine practice and the availability of equine jobs for new graduates. Students with pre‐existing equine interest/experience are more likely to want to enter equine practice. EMS appears important for students' training in equine medicine.