JACKSONVILLE, Fla. — The Jacksonville Humane Society announced they are temporarily closing the veterinary clinic due to staffing shortages. Current appointments will be honored, but they have discontinued booking new appointments.
The non-profit said Wednesday the closing is partly because of the nationwide staffing shortage, but also because of an industry shortage.
A new study from Banfield Pet Hospital is estimating 75 million pets could be without proper veterinary care in the U.S. by 2030 because of an industry shortage in trained professionals.
“This was a difficult decision to make and not one made lightly,” said Denise Deisler, JHS CEO.
The emergency services JHS provides to families in crisis with the Pet Safety Net program will still be available. This program ensures pets stay with their families instead of being surrendered to a shelter.
The closing of the veterinary clinic is temporary, but a date has not been set for its reopening.
Deisler said, “This is a necessary, temporary measure to ensure that we can continue providing care to dogs and cats in our custody, particularly during the summer, when every animal shelter – including ours – is at capacity. We appreciate the public’s continued understanding and support.”
This closing will not prompt any elimination of staff; in fact, JHS is hiring for positions in multiple departments. Learn more about open positions with JHS here.
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