Veterinary Workers Susceptible To Injuries And Illnesses

By Steve Goldstein
Published: Wednesday, January 2, 2019 - 1:13pm
Updated: Wednesday, January 2, 2019 - 3:40pm
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When we take our pet to the veterinarian, we’re focused on the health of our dog or cat, and usually not that of the tech or the veterinary assistant.

But a 2016 federal survey shows that veterinary services — of the U.S. industries tracked — had the second-highest rate of non-fatal job-related injuries and illnesses. And an increase in chemotherapy for our pets is posing greater risks to veterinary staff members, who are with the animals when they’re getting X-rays, for example.

Dr. Kim Selting is an associate professor of oncology at the University of Illinois and is current president of the Veterinary Cancer Society. She joined The Show to talk about the safety of veterinary practices and steps being taken to improve conditions.

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