Discrimination is the unfair or biased treatment of individuals or groups based on attributes like gender, race, religion, disability, socioeconomic status, or others. Discrimination matters to animal care because it creates social inequality, limiting access to resources, rights, and opportunities, and ultimately: veterinary care.
Did you know that the common phrase “Owning pets is a privilege, not a right” discriminates and alienates those doing their best under tough circumstances that may be beyond their control?
How Discrimination affects animal health
Discrimination affects animal health in four main ways:
- Economic Factors: Many people can’t afford veterinary care and are stigmatized because of it.
- Geographic Barriers: Remote and low income communities often lack the opportunity to access veterinary services. Pet owners can not access services that do not exist where they are located.
- Demographics: Immigration status, age, religion, education, and disabilities can all prevent access to care
- Interpersonal challenges: Past negative experiences, such as being judged or disrespected by veterinary staff, can lead to a person feeling discriminated against
Real life examples
Some real-life examples of people who experience discrimination trying to get health care for their animals:
- Low-income families struggling to afford emergency pet care
- Elderly individuals or those with physical disabilities unable to transport pets
- Immigrants unsure how to navigate and reach veterinary care
- People living in remote northern communities who have no access to veterinary care, because there are no veterinarians close by
Who should address this
While governments should lead efforts in combating discrimination and making access to animal health accessible to all, it is often nonprofits that take on this burden. As individuals, and as a society, we can work together to create safe spaces for diverse experiences, avoiding judgment, and recognizing that financial hardship does not equal irresponsibility. While there is legislation across Canada that focuses on ensuring animals are cared for, there is little protection for pet owners who face housing or financial discrimination, and often penalties are imposed upon them without providing potential solutions or supports. A notable exception is that there is legisltaiton that guarantees individuals with disabilities and their guide dogs or service dogs are protected from discrimination (the BC Guide Dog and Service Dog Act, Saskatchewan’s Human Rights Code, and Manitoba’s Human Rights Act).
Actions that Vets Can Take
In order to reduce discrimination, veterinarians should use inclusive and non-judgemental language. They should aim to understand that not everyone can afford gold-standard vet care, and should advocate for and support community resources like transportation assistance.
Additional Resources:
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