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MELROSE, Mass (WBZ NewsRadio) — There have been lots of shortages during the pandemic. Now, the state is experiencing one that's likely near to many people's hearts: a veterinarian shortage.
After a pet adoption boom early in the pandemic, it's now tough to get an appointment for an expert to see your furry best friend when they're sick.
At the Melrose Animal Clinic, patients — and their anxious owners — are waiting months for a free slot. The wait times, combined with the need to follow Covid protocol, has infuriated many clients.
"We had a gentleman grab one of my female technicians because she said, 'Could you please put on a mask?'" said Practice Manager Michele Eagan. Eagan also pointed out that the clients tend to get very upset when they're told their pets can't be seen right away.
Most of the other practices the clinic associates with have had the same crush of work. They've needed to triage, taking the most severe pet ailments first and leaving lesser cases to wait.
The practices are booking out routine care for pets months in advance. Eagan estimates the average wait time is 6 to 8 weeks.
WBZ's Karyn Regal (@Karynregal) reports:
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