This piece of prose presents in a nontechnical way the situation with which we must cope. The needs of the environment in relation to veterinary medicine are changing rapidly. This places much strain on the accommodating powers of those engaged in the profession and of those attempting to do so. I have confidence that nearly everyone concerned is capable of meeting and even exceeding the challenges trust upon him but I believe that in all areas there are some, perhaps many, who have grown lax in their efforts, and in doing so, are jeopardizing the profession.