The Tails of Truth Podcast:

The Rise of Mid-Level Practitioners in Veterinary Medicine: Concerns & Consequences

In this episode of Tails of Truth, Dr. Angie and JoJo dive into Colorado’s Proposition 129, which introduces the Veterinary Professional Associate (VPA)—also called mid-level practitioners. They unpack what this new role means for veterinarians, veterinary nurses, and pet parents, and share concerns about the adequacy of training, increased liability, and corporate influence in veterinary medicine. With real talk and candid reflections, they emphasize why pet parents must ask more questions than ever about who is providing care for their animals. This conversation highlights both the challenges and the unknowns ahead as Colorado becomes the testing ground for a controversial shift in veterinary care.

Learn more about the VPA program launching at CSU here. 

Key Takeaways

  • Proposition 129 introduces mid-level practitioners (VPAs) into veterinary care in Colorado.
  • VPAs will have significantly less training than veterinarians but may still perform surgeries.
  • Veterinary nurses fear being sidelined, further straining an already burned-out workforce.
  • Corporate veterinary practices may benefit more than small, independent clinics.
  • Pet parents must advocate for their animals by asking who is overseeing their pet’s care.
  • Liability concerns for veterinarians will likely increase with VPAs practicing under their licenses.
  • The curriculum raises red flags with heavy online coursework and limited hands-on training.
  • The veterinary profession is already in crisis, and this law does not address root problems.
  • Other states may use Colorado as a case study before adopting (or rejecting) similar laws.
  • The future of veterinary care may look drastically different as these roles are implemented.
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Sound Bites

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  • “No one’s happy about it.” ~Dr. Angie~

  • “I don’t want someone else to spay a dog or a cat under my license. I’m so uncomfortable with that.” ~Dr. Angie~

  • “As a veterinary nurse, I feel underutilized in my role. And this makes it worse.” ~JoJo~

  • “Instead of elevating veterinary nurses, this just left them behind.” ~Dr. Angie~

  • “Maybe it will benefit rural clinics… but right now, I’m concerned for pet parents.” ~JoJo~

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