NW Kentucky News

Congressman James Comer expressed his support for Murray State University's proposal to develop a school of veterinary medicine during a meeting with university officials and representatives from the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA). Comer commended the university's plan and its potential to address the growing demand for rural large animal veterinarians in Kentucky.

"I am proud to support Murray State University's plan to develop a top-tier, accredited school of veterinary medicine," said Congressman Comer. "Kentucky's livestock and equine industries are world renowned, and it's time for the Commonwealth to establish itself as a top destination for students seeking an education in veterinary medicine."

Currently, Kentucky does not have any veterinary schools. Murray State University aims to fill this void by establishing an accredited school of veterinary medicine that will grant Doctor of Veterinary Medicine degrees. This initiative will also strengthen the university's existing pre-veterinary program, which is already the largest in the state.

The need for veterinarians specializing in large animals is evident in Kentucky, where there are only 54 full-time veterinarians dedicated to serving these animals. Nationally, there is an approximate shortage of 5,000 veterinarians. By developing a school of veterinary medicine, Murray State University hopes to address this shortage and provide students with the necessary education and training to meet the needs of Kentucky farmers.

Murray State University's Hutson College of Agriculture is well-positioned to lead this initiative. The college conducts groundbreaking research at its main campus and the Breathitt Veterinary Center, which is one of 23 diagnostic laboratories designated as a Level 1 facility within the USDA's National Animal Health Laboratory Network.

Recognizing the importance of filling the void in rural veterinarians in Kentucky, the USDA National Institute of Food and Agriculture released a call for applicants. This initiative follows a request from Dr. Katherine Flynn, State Veterinarian with the Kentucky Department of Agriculture.

Congressman Comer emphasized the importance of collaboration between local, state, and federal leaders, including the USDA and the Kentucky General Assembly, to make this plan a reality. The development of a school of veterinary medicine at Murray State University would not only benefit the state of Kentucky but also contribute to addressing the national shortage of veterinarians.

As the discussions continue, Murray State University is one step closer to establishing itself as a hub for veterinary medicine education and research.

To find out more, go to this link: https://comer.house.gov/2023/11/comer-proud-to-support-murray-state-university-s-plan-to-develop-a-school-of-veterinary-medicine