The Virginia Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services (VDACS) has announced the availability of new grant funds aimed at supporting large animal veterinarians in Virginia. The application period for the VDACS Large Animal Veterinary Grant Program opened on July 1, 2025, inviting applications from veterinarians who provide services for livestock, poultry, or equines.
VDACS plans to award four recipients up to $110,000 each over three years to bolster veterinary services across the state. Additionally, the Virginia Tobacco Region Revitalization Commission is collaborating with VDACS to offer further incentives in Southern and Southwest Virginia. Two applicants may receive grants up to $150,000 over five years if they choose to practice in these regions. The deadline for all grant applications is September 1, 2025.
“Virginia’s agricultural industry stakeholders are working strategically together to address a shortage of large animal veterinarians,” stated Dr. Charlie Broaddus, State Veterinarian. He highlighted that this shortage is a national issue affecting farmers and rural communities.
Agriculture stands as Virginia’s largest private industry, making the presence of large animal veterinarians crucial for economic stability and food safety. The General Assembly established the Large Animal Veterinary Grant in 2025 as part of efforts by various stakeholders like VDACS and others to tackle challenges faced by large animal veterinarians.
The grants can be utilized for various needs such as equipment purchase, staff salaries, student loan repayment, and travel expenses related to service areas. Detailed information and application requirements are available on the VDACS website.
“In Virginia, we support our farmers and all those who help keep our food supply secure and safe,” said VDACS Commissioner Joseph Guthrie. He emphasized that timely veterinary care is essential for maintaining animal health and reducing production losses.
A panel comprising industry representatives will select grant recipients using a standardized scoring rubric. This panel includes members from several organizations including the Virginia Board of Veterinary Medicine and the Virginia Farm Bureau.
“The Virginia Tobacco Region Revitalization Commission is proud to work with industry partners,” commented Delegate Will Morefield, Chairman of the Tobacco Commission. He expressed hope for more integrated approaches in addressing this challenge in future endeavors.
Scott Sink, President of the Virginia Farm Bureau Federation remarked on the importance of large animal veterinarians: “Large animal veterinarians are integral to our farming communities.” He expressed satisfaction with the development of this grant program after extensive studies on veterinary service shortages in Virginia.
The Virginia-Maryland College of Veterinary Medicine at Virginia Tech will contribute by creating a Doctor of Veterinary Medicine position focused on coordinating these grant programs. Dean Dan Givens noted that this role will foster support networks among veterinarians while working with livestock producers to enhance herd outcomes.
Applications must be submitted by September 1, 2025. Further details can be accessed through the VDACS website link provided above.
