Survey of teaching of ruminant medicine to veterinary students in veterinary schools in Europe and the USA by questionnaire

The changing background of veterinary students has raised concerns about the decreasing number of graduates who are entering ruminant medicine practice. On the other hand it seems likely that attractive and high-quality teaching of food ruminant medicine may result in increased interest. The aim of the present study was to obtain an overview by questionnaire about ruminant medicine teaching at European and North American Veterinary Schools. To reach these objectives a survey was developed (prospective design). The overall response was 46.9% (38 of 81 surveys, Europe 29 of 42, 69%; North America 9 of 39 surveys, 23%). Minor differences were found in theoretical teaching; however the organisation of practical teaching (e.g. group size, inclusion of the students, specialization in ruminant medicine) differed significantly. Veterinary Schools running a ruminant hospital (>500 cases/year) seem able to offer better conditions for practical teaching. Additionally it seems that the ability to offer transportation to transport cattle to the veterinary hospital is important in obtaining sufficient cases. We believe that to ensure that a sufficient number of graduates enter a career in ruminant medicine high quality teaching is necessary. We concluded that financial and personal commitment by the veterinary school and its staff is required. Current prices for milk and meat do not allow coverage of the expenses to run a ruminant veterinary hospital. Therefore ruminant clinics have to be subsidized to deliver their teaching.