Influences on veterinary professionals to perform wildlife medicine in the United Kingdom: A qualitative multifocal study

INTRODUCTION: In the United Kingdom (UK) thousands of wild animals enter veterinary clinics and wildlife centres requiring medical support and rehabilitation care due to natural and anthropogenic diseases and injuries. The objectives of this empirical research were to survey veterinary professionals, wildlife centre personnel and academic educators to explore the influences of culture, working relationships, education and professional obligations on wildlife treatment experienced by the veterinary community. METHODS: A mixed-method of a semi-quantitative survey and qualitative interviews was conducted. Purposive, convenience sampling was used for an online survey which was completed by 409 veterinary participants and 20 veterinary professionals, seven wildlife centre personnel and six academic educators were interviewed. The survey data was analysed descriptively and the interview data was analysed using reflexive thematic analysis. RESULTS: Themes associated with promoting wildlife treatment composed of Competency, Motivation and Collaborations. Themes associated with inhibiting wildlife treatment consisted of Uncertainty, Lack of Resources and Conflicts. The Royal College of Veterinary Surgeons (RCVS) had an influential role on both promoter and inhibitor themes. CONCLUSION: A proactive wildlife medicine culture in the UK would benefit from the recognition and promotion of the values and benefits of working with wildlife. Starting with the inclusion of wildlife medicine to veterinary curricular. Support and communication within and between veterinary practices and wildlife centres to utilitise resources and information, develop networks and mitigate challenges to promote competency, motivation and collaboration. With support from the RCVS to refine educational and professional standards and enforce the regulation of the veterinary community in their provision of wildlife medicine.