Retaining the roles that vets play across animal health is 'pivotal' to securing a successful Brexit, the British Veterinary Association have said.
BVA President Gudrun Ravetz was speaking to a roomful of key people at an annual London dinner in Westminster.
She said the UK veterinary profession relies heavily on EU graduates, 'who have felt the impact of the EU referendum result since day one'.
"In the meat hygiene sector alone, some estimates suggest 95% of veterinary surgeons graduated overseas.
"That's why our first action after 23 June was to call on UK governments to protect the status of EU veterinary surgeons and veterinary nurses currently living and working in the UK.
"We know vets remain nervous about the changes to come, with many of our members concerned about the threat Brexit poses for UK animal health and welfare."
'Critical work'
The Parliamentary Under Secretary of State for Rural Affairs and Biosecurity Lord Gardiner of Kimble responded to the BVA President’s speech.
He said: "Veterinary professionals across the UK do such crucial work helping to protect against the threat of disease, caring for our beloved pets and underpinning our food and farming industry.
"In my role at Defra I am continually reminded of the importance of the relationship between vets and government - most recently in tackling the outbreak of Avian Influenza in the UK. Your thoughts and ideas are invaluable as we manage the many opportunities and challenges posed by exiting the European Union, ensure the highest standards of animal welfare, protect the country from new animal disease threats, and attract the brightest and best into the profession.
"I look forward to continuing to work closely together as we push ahead with our plans to create a world leading food and farming industry based on high standards of animal health and welfare."
