Practice Survey: Category II USDA-Accredited Veterinarians Licensed in Indiana
In August 2024, the Indiana State Board of Animal Health (BOAH) offered a survey to Indiana-licensed veterinarians who carry a USDA Category II accreditation. This survey is part of the effort to identify veterinary deserts in Indiana with a focus on species type, what counties are served, and how veterinary practice services are offered (in-clinic, haul-in or mobile/ambulatory).
Category II-accreditation is required to issue certificates of veterinary inspection for all species of animals, whereas Category I veterinarians may issue certificates for dogs, cats and other small pets. Just under 1100 Indiana-licensed veterinarians carry a Category II accreditation. These individuals are most likely to serve the food-animal sector.
In the initial survey period, 202 veterinarians responded to the survey.
Here is some insight into their responses
- Most veterinarians are in full-time practice
Some respondents no longer practice in Indiana after moving, retiring, etc.
“Relief” refers to veterinarians who practice much like substitute teachers—they fill in when a regular practitioner is away or temporary help is needed.
- What type of practice does the veterinarian use?
Many veterinarians offer mobile/ambulatory service, as well as haul-in facilities for large animals.
The total number reflects respondents—many may operate in more than one category. In some cases multiple veterinarian respondents may have reported on the same facility in a multi-doctor practice.
- What species are veterinarians willing to see in practice?
Practitioners were asked to select all that apply. Some have specialty practices that service only one species, such as equine or poultry.
- What percentage of a regular work schedule is spent with food/large-animal clients?
Nearly half of the respondents—89—do not see food animals in their regular practice
- Does the veterinarian have additional capacity to see more clients?
Many veterinarians are willing and able to see more clients, depending on the species
Fifty-five said they would see large animals (27%)
Seventy-four said they would see small animals (37%)
- For mobile and ambulatory practices, what distance is the veterinarian willing to travel to see clients?
101 practitioners reported to have a mobile/ambulatory service. 72 said they are willing to travel more than 25 miles to see clients.
- What Indiana counties does the veterinarian service?
Practitioners were asked to mark which counties they service. While not every county has an active clinic, every county was mentioned at least twice.
The highest number of veterinarians servicing a single county was 24. This map illustrates what counties have the highest reported number of veterinarians offering services. The veterinary desert areas—which have the fewest practitioners available—is reflected in the lighter areas.
Survey Link for Veterinarians
This survey remains active for Category II accredited veterinarians practicing in Indiana to respond:
Updates will be posted as more input is received.
