California’s Pet Health Crisis: More Animals Are Dying as Vet Shortage Deepens

A growing shortage of veterinarians in California is leaving pets vulnerable to preventable diseases and even death—and experts say the situation is only getting worse.

Veterinary professionals across the state are reporting alarming increases in untreated medical conditions, delays in care, and rising pet fatalities. A study from UC Davis revealed that nearly two-thirds of California’s animal shelters are unable to provide even basic veterinary care due to a lack of staff. Over half of veterinary positions across the state remain unfilled.

“This is not just a workforce issue—it’s a public health concern,” Dr. Leah Sauerwein, a California veterinarian who has seen her caseload spike dramatically told NBC San Diego. “In just the past week, our hospital saw a 17% increase in cases.”

And the surge in demand is colliding with seasonal risks. As temperatures rise, veterinarians are treating more heatstroke, especially in flat-faced breeds like French bulldogs and English bulldogs. There’s also a sharp uptick in rattlesnake envenomations, as warmer weather brings both pets and snakes outdoors.

UC Davis Leads Effort to Expand the Veterinary Workforce

UC Davis—one of only two veterinary schools in the state—is stepping up to address the crisis. The university has already raised nearly $500 million to expand its veterinary facilities and increase student capacity. But administrators warn that it won’t be enough to meet California’s future veterinary care demands without continued investment.

In the meantime, some relief is coming through innovation. A new California law enacted in January allows veterinarians to offer telehealth appointments, providing critical support for non-emergency cases.

California’s veterinary system is at a breaking point. Without bold action, experts warn that more pets will suffer due to lack of care. For now, early prevention and smart choices may be a pet owner’s best defense.