Oklahoma's livestock industry at crossroads amid vet shortage

Oklahoma’s livestock industry is facing a critical shortage of rural veterinarians, with more than 80% of counties reporting inadequate veterinary coverage over the past five years. The gap is raising concerns about the future of animal agriculture in the state and the stability of rural economies.

According to data from the Farm Journal Foundation, only a small fraction of licensed veterinarians in the U.S. choose to work with domestic cattle. In contrast, the majority—approximately 76%—focus on companion animal medicine, a trend that has been decades in the making.

Dr. Troy Shelby, a cattle producer and current president of the Oklahoma Cattlemen's Association, notes that the shift toward companion animal practice has been ongoing since at least the late 1980s. He emphasizes that rural producers rely heavily on veterinary care, particularly for large animals in remote areas.

“It can be very frustrating and a scary situation if you have a cow or animal in trouble,” Shelby told Newson6. “It’s hard to find somebody to come out—especially in the country. You can be in a real dilemma without veterinary services.”

Veterinary experts cite a range of factors contributing to the shortage. Barriers include the difficulty of getting into and completing veterinary school, changes to student loans programs and limits on federal loans, limited access to jobs in rural regions for spouses or partners, and lower earning potential compared to urban and suburban practices.

The situation is also generational. Over the next decade, more than 600 veterinarians in Oklahoma are expected to retire, further compounding the shortfall. In 2023, just 5% of Oklahoma State University’s veterinary graduates listed food animal medicine as their chosen field. Another 28% chose mixed-animal practice, which often includes limited work with livestock.

Shelby stresses that veterinary care is essential not just for animal health, but also for public safety, food security, and the vitality of rural economies. “Veterinarians are the first line of defense in food safety and public health,” he said.

Animal agriculture remains a key economic driver in Oklahoma. The state is working to address the issue by investing in the future of veterinary education. In Stillwater, a $250 million investment has been approved for the construction of a new veterinary teaching hospital—part of a broader strategy to attract and train the next generation of rural veterinarians.

While the shortage presents real challenges, leaders in the industry remain hopeful that expanded education and targeted support will help reverse the trend and strengthen veterinary access across Oklahoma’s rural communities.