Care in the Ötztal

New vets have their hands full

Ötztal is getting two new vets. This closes a supply gap, but the situation elsewhere remains tense. The province of Tyrol is taking action.

Good news from Ötztal: not one, but two successors have been found for the veterinary practice in Längenfeld.

This is not a matter of course. As reported, there is a looming shortage of veterinarians in Tyrol. Due to impending supply shortages, the province is supporting those regions where there are shortages in a pilot project - including Längenfeld.

State Premier Josef Geisler, Mayor Richard Grüner, Melitta Neurauter, State Veterinary Director Matthias Vill, Anna Wassermann and local councillor Jakob Hausegger.(Bild: Land Tirol/Jansenberger)

The new vets Anna Wassermann and Melitta Neurauter will each receive 25,000 euros as start-up capital from the state. They are unlikely to get bored: 5500 sheep and goats, around 3300 cattle, around 450 horses and alpacas as well as around 250 pigs have to be looked after in the Ötztal.

Solution being sought for Landeck district
Meanwhile, the province is continuing to work on measures to counteract the shortage of vets. Initiatives have been taken with the Vetmeduni. Some livestock medicine is now being taught in Tyrol and an endowed professorship has also been established.

Due to the retirement of a livestock veterinarian in the Landeck district, the province is currently working with local veterinary practices, the Chamber of Veterinarians and the municipalities to find a successor solution.