Johannesburg, 24 April 2023 – World Veterinary Day falls on 29 April each year and global animal health company, Zoetis South Africa (Zoetis), is encouraging all pet owners to celebrate the critical role that veterinarians play in supporting and maintaining the health of companion animals – and to ask how the health and wellness of veterinarians can be supported.
“Veterinarians have the unique opportunity to make a meaningful difference in the lives of both animals and their human companions by treating illnesses, preventing diseases, and educating pet owners about responsible animal care,” says Dr Tarryn Dent, Business Unit Lead: Companion Animals, at Zoetis.
“It’s a rewarding and respected profession, and one we look forward to celebrating each year with our veterinarian partners on World Veterinary Day. However, as much as being a veterinarian is a dream job for many children and adults alike, it is a profession that comes with many emotional stressors as well, and it’s these, and their impact on mental health, that we are focusing on this year. If you are an animal lover, your veterinarian plays a critical role in your life and that of your fur babies. Let’s give them all the support we can.”
High stress environments impact mental health and wellness
Many high-stress work environments are fast-paced, with long hours and heavy workloads. However, veterinary practices have the added pressure of making accurate diagnoses and treatment decisions, combined with the emotional aspects of the job, which can lead to high levels of stress and burnout.
For example, veterinarians often deal with emotionally charged situations, such as terminally ill animals and grieving pet owners. “In what other profession are individuals asked to make the difficult decision to recommend euthanising an animal,” says Dent. “Not only can this be extremely emotionally taxing, but we’ve seen how repeated exposure to euthanasia and death can lead to feelings of guilt, sadness, and even depression. The emotional energy it takes caring for feline and canine patients that are integral to family homes can also lead to compassion fatigue.”
“These experiences can take a toll on the mental well-being of veterinarians, making it essential for them to maintain a healthy mental state to cope with these demands. More than that, though, we would encourage pet owners to support their veterinarians as well,” says Dent.
How pet owners can support their veterinarians
Pet owners can play a crucial role in supporting their veterinarians’ mental health and wellness. “This is such an important element that we should not discount,” says Dent. “By cultivating a respectful and empathetic relationship with veterinary professionals, pet owners can contribute to a positive work environment that bolsters mental well-being.”
One way to support veterinarians is through effective communication. “Pet owners can be transparent about their concerns, expectations, and any limitations they may have, such as financial constraints or time commitments, while still being very respectful to their veterinarians,” says Dent. “This allows veterinarians to tailor their treatment plans accordingly and reduce the potential for misunderstandings or unmet expectations, which can be a huge source of stress.”
Similarly, Dent advises the importance for pet owners to respect their veterinarian’s time and expertise. “Arriving punctually for appointments, being well-prepared with relevant medical history and documentation, and adhering to the prescribed treatment plans demonstrate respect for a veterinarian’s efforts and professional judgment. Patients can further show their appreciation by expressing gratitude and acknowledging the veterinarian’s dedication to their pet’s well-being. We adore our fur babies – they are family members – but when was the last time you really said a heartfelt thank you to your veterinarian?” says Dent.
Pet owners can also support veterinarians by actively participating in their pet’s care. “Follow through on preventive measures like vaccinations and regular check-ups and take your companion animal to your local veterinary practice as soon as you recognise your animal is behaving out of character,” says Dent. “Many conditions are avoidable when diagnosed and treated early, and this will protect pets as well as alleviate some of the emotional burden that veterinarians experience when treating advanced or avoidable conditions.”
Finally, pet owners can promote mental health and wellness within the veterinary community by being understanding and patient in challenging situations. “By recognising that veterinarians sometimes have to make difficult decisions or deliver unfavourable news, pet owners can offer emotional support and encouragement rather than resorting to criticism or blame,” says Dent. “This compassionate approach will lead to a collaborative, long-term relationship that benefits everyone – pet owners, companion animals and veterinarians. Remember, everyone has the same goal – happy, healthy animals. When we are all kind and understanding towards each other, the chances of achieving that goal are heightened.”
ABOUT ZOETIS:
A leading multi-national animal health company, Zoetis builds on more than 65 years of experience in animal health to research, develop, manufacture and commercialise medicines, vaccines and diagnostic products. Zoetis understands the deep connection between people and their pet and provides veterinarians with the resources needed to provide the highest quality of care and support, help improve the quality and extend the life of cats, dogs and horses and make it easier for owners to contribute towards the health and wellness of their companion animals. Zoetis produces vaccines, anti-infectives, parasiticides, dermatology products, animal health diagnostic and other pharmaceuticals.