Riverside County Approves Feasibility Study for Regional Veterinary School at UC Riverside

RIVERSIDE COUNTY – During yesterday’s meeting, the Riverside County Board of Supervisors unanimously approved a proposal by Supervisors V. Manuel Perez and Yxstian Gutierrez to partner with the University of California, Riverside (UCR) on a feasibility study exploring the potential establishment of a regional veterinary school. This recommendation was brought forth on behalf of an Ad Hoc Committee formed back in July 2024, with the objective of identifying opportunities to strengthen operations within the Riverside County Department of Animal Services (DAS), and to better meet the needs and expectations of Riverside County communities.

“The potential benefits of establishing a veterinary school in our region are significant,” said Supervisor Perez. “At a time when we are facing a shortage of veterinarians, we have an opportunity to explore bringing this specialized education closer to home and creating a pathway for local students to enter the profession. A veterinary school could help strengthen our workforce, support our Animal Services system and, most importantly, expand access to quality care for animals throughout Riverside County.”

The feasibility study will evaluate the operational, financial, academic and spatial requirements associated with establishing a veterinary school in the region, as well as its overall viability. Under the agreement, the County will provide UCR with $125,000 toward completion of the $250,000 study.

The study does not commit the County or UCR to establishing or funding a veterinary school. Rather, it will help determine whether such an institution is viable in the region and identify the partnerships, resources, facilities and investments that would be necessary to support its development and long-term success.

“I would like to personally thank Janet Reiley, UC Board of Regents and Dr. S. Jack Hu, Chancellor of UCR for meeting with us and for their engagement in exploring this opportunity,” added Supervisor Perez. “Having all of the hard data will help us better determine the timing and realities behind this effort.”

 The term of the agreement for the feasibility study will run through January 31, 2027.