Luxembourg’s veterinary clinics want to draw attention to the challenges they face. The workload of the country’s veterinary surgeons is constantly increasing, and they are concerned about their safety, especially during night duties. In an interview with our colleagues from RTL Télé, veterinarians provided insights into the changes they believe are necessary.
The Bettembourg veterinary clinic, staffed by 15 veterinarians and 15 assistants working in shifts, ensures continuous service. However, Carole Jungblut, a veterinary surgeon at the Bettembourg clinic, underscores the strain of handling emergencies and hospitalised animals with only one doctor on duty from 10pm onwards.
The surge in nighttime emergencies, including cases from neighbouring areas like Belgium, France, and Germany, contributes to the complexity and volume of cases, posing challenges for the clinic.
Simone Mousel, President of the Luxembourg Association of Pet Veterinarians (LAK), points out that part of the problem stems from pet owners bypassing local veterinary practices and directly heading to clinics, even for minor issues that could be efficiently handled by a local vet. Some vets are officially on call, and in addition to the veterinary clinics, two veterinary practices are available every evening until at least midnight.
The state compensates vets for on-call duty, providing €150 for eight hours. However, Mousel notes a “shift in mentality” among some vets, with concerns about maintaining work-life balance leaving some vets reluctant to accept on-call duties, thereby increasing the challenges faced by clinics.
In addition to an increased workload, security concerns also loom over veterinary clinics - prompting a call for support from politicians. The issue gained prominence in August when a veterinarian was attacked at the Bereldange clinic. Faced with emotionally charged customers, the veterinary staff at the Bettembourg clinic also expressed worries for their safety, leading the clinic to enlist the services of a private security company since the Bereldange incident.
The incident in Bereldange has underscored the vulnerability of veterinary professionals, prompting a plea for political intervention. Veterinarians are seeking support on two fronts: better incentives and overall organisation for on-call duty, and the assurance of safety for vets working night shifts.
Full report by RTL Télé (in Luxembourgish)
