Behind the Scenes - The Emotional Toll of Veterinary Critical Care and Emergency

As veterinary critical care and emergency service providers, we have the unique opportunity to save lives and support clients through some of their most challenging times.

We enjoy the rush of never knowing what will walk through the door and are always prepared to step into life-or-death situations.

What sets veterinary emergency/critical care teams apart from the rest is our ability to triage quickly in times of high stress and our high degree of resourcefulness.

When it comes to saving a patient’s life, we make no excuses and exhaust every possible option—even those that are unconventional.

What many don’t see behind the scenes of veterinary emergency and critical care is the significant toll many of us face daily.

Working in a unique area of our field comes with a unique set of challenges we face every day.

One of the biggest challenges we face is the sheer intensity of the work. We often deal with traumatic, life-changing situations that are stressful and emotionally draining.

Long hours, high-pressure situations, and a constant influx of critical cases can damage our mental and emotional well-being.

It’s not uncommon to experience things like:

• Ethical dilemmas – such as if/when to euthanize and client financial constraints

• Challenging client interactions – clients may not agree or respond well to treatment options or cost

• Emotional toll – long periods of high stress, burnout, and unsuccessful patient outcomes can take a significant toll

• Compassion fatigue – experiencing constant loss and supporting grieving clients can result in feelings of emotional exhaustion.  

• Feeling undervalued – resulting from a lack of acknowledgment and low compensation

Many don’t see the heartache we experience when a client cannot afford their pet’s care.

Not only because it's often painful for our clients to admit, but it’s emotionally challenging to offer a lower-grade treatment than the patient deserves.

This is where we tend to run into a crossroads with our resourcefulness—we’re often able to get creative to enhance our patients' level of care, but we’re saddened by the constant need to perform treatments “off label,” knowing there’s a better way. 

The Hidden Struggles of Working Long Hours and Holidays

The nature of emergency and critical care means that we are often required to work long hours, weekends, and holidays, leaving little time for rest.

It’s no wonder we see high cases of burnout, compassion fatigue, and guilt for not being able to spend enough time with our families and pets

 So, what can we do to help move the needle from “taxing and fatiguing” to “fulfilling and valued”?

As tempting as it is to put a band-aid on things by buying our team lunch or bringing in doughnuts, it’s less impactful to the bigger picture.

It’s important to recognize the emotional toll that working in this high-stress environment can take on our teams and to acknowledge hard work and a job well done.

As much as everyone loves some free food, what’s deeply rooted is our need to feel seen, heard, and appreciated.

It’s easy to forget how impactful these simple attributes contribute to our feelings of fulfillment and value.

Start by setting the example…

Culture change happens one person at a time, and the age-old saying “lead by example” is still a practical approach to change.

It’s okay to start small:

• Give an acknowledgment a day by authentically extending appreciation to a team member or group for something specific they’ve done. This could be a simple thank you for staying late or kudos for working with a difficult client.

• Take breaks, practice self-care, and seek support from colleagues to demonstrate prioritizing your well-being. Encourage your teams to do the same.

• Empower your teams to speak up when they’re feeling burned out. Share some examples of options they’ll have to help them recover. They must know we’re invested in their well-being.

The Power of Compassionate Leadership in Veterinary Teams

Working in veterinary emergency and critical care requires compassionate leadership.

This leadership style is rooted in empathy, kindness, understanding, and clear expectations.

Compassionate leaders prioritize the needs of their teams, can connect with those they work with, and are effective at active listening.

Understanding differing perspectives, feelings, and challenges is a skillful practice. Compassionate leaders handle difficult situations with understanding and grace.

Leading with a compassionate leadership style does not mean allowing your team to make excuses, act outside the rules, or disrespect boundaries. Rather, it encourages a respectful environment enhanced by psychological safety.

We often forget that our ability to work in veterinary emergency and critical care is a privilege. We’re uniquely positioned to make a meaningful difference in the lives of our patients and pet parents.

However, we must remember that we are human, too, and it is okay to feel the weight of the emotional toll of our work.

By supporting each other and taking care of ourselves, we can continue providing the best care possible for our patients while maintaining our own well-being.

Compassion: Euthanizing the Family Pet with Kids Present

Balancing Emotions: Navigating Euthanasia with Children Present

As a veterinary community, we know that euthanizing a cherished pet is one of the most difficult decisions a pet parent faces...

…And when young ones are present, the decision becomes even more complex.

We’ve all witnessed firsthand the emotional toll that euthanizing a pet can take on families.

 One of the biggest pros of euthanizing a pet with kids present is the opportunity for closure and understanding.

Allowing children to be present during the procedure can help them meaningfully say goodbye to their furry family members.

 Knowing that loved ones are surrounded by them in their final moments can also provide a sense of comfort and support to both the kids and the pet.

It may also offer emotional support to pet parents so their kids can be present.

Supporting Families Through the Heartache of Pet Loss

Take the single parent, navigating parenthood alone, whose journey to parenthood started with their pet.

Their friendly companion has supported them through major life events, and we can all appreciate how crushing it feels to let that go.

Allowing the kid(s) to be present can comfort everyone in the room and honor the bond they’ve developed as a family.

 On the other hand, one of the cons of having kids present during euthanasia is the potential emotional distress it may cause.

They may not fully understand the concept of humane euthanasia and could have a difficult time processing their emotions and navigating their grief.

Parents should carefully consider whether their children are emotionally mature enough to handle the experience.

The Role of Veterinary Teams in Helping Families

As their veterinary care team, there are a few things we can do to make it a comfortable experience for everyone:

1. Provide age-appropriate explanations: Explain the euthanasia process gently and using language that children can understand. It is important to be honest and straightforward while also being sensitive to their young emotions.

 2. Offer support and reassurance: the young and the family will need support throughout the process. This could be as simple as providing tissues, offering a comforting hand to hold, reassurance that showing emotion is okay, and being present to answer any questions or concerns that may arise.

 3. Create a peaceful environment: create a calm and comfortable environment for the procedure, with soft lighting, music, and comfortable seating for the family. This can help to reduce anxiety and create a sense of solace during a difficult time.

 4. Allow for personal rituals and traditions: Families may wish to perform personal tributes or traditions to say goodbye to their pets in their own way. Try to accommodate these requests by providing the space and time needed for families to say their final goodbyes.

 5. Bring good memories to the surface: this one is undoubtedly situational, and you’ll want to read the room to gauge if questions are appropriate, but consider asking them questions like: what’s their favorite memory of their pet? What’s a memory of their pet that makes them laugh? What’s their first memory with their pet? This can offer a gentle reminder of the beautiful moments they’ve shared.

The Mental Health of Veterinarians: Balancing Professional Duty and Emotional Well-being

 Euthanizing a pet in the presence of children can be emotionally challenging for veterinary teams. If you feel strongly that children should not be present, it's important to stand by your decision to protect your mental well-being.

We strive to create a calm and compassionate environment for our patients and their families while providing support and guidance throughout the process.

It’s always heart-wrenching to see families' grief, but it’s also a privilege to be able to help them through such a difficult time.

Kids are often very attached to their pets, so saying goodbye is a memory that will stick with them for the long haul.

It’s a pleasure to help them during such a vulnerable time.

 For pet families, the experience of euthanizing a pet with kids present can be both heartbreaking and healing.

The moments leading up to the procedure are filled with tears and sadness, but there is also a sense of peace knowing that their pet is no longer suffering.

In the days and weeks following the procedure, families will find comfort in the memories they shared with their beloved pets and the knowledge that they made the best decision.

Considering the Child’s Well-being During Euthanasia

 In the end, the decision to euthanize a pet with kids present is a deeply personal one.

Most children do not have the emotional and mental maturity to witness a pet euthanasia.

This decision should be made with careful consideration and compassion, which we, as their veterinary care team, should support.

Whether children are present or not, the most important thing is to ensure that your patient is surrounded by love in their final moments.

the Hard Decision: Euthanizing with Pet Parents Present

A Bittersweet Decision - The Heartache and Healing of Euthanizing with Pet Parents Present

Understanding Grief and Loss

Euthanizing a beloved pet is one of the most challenging decisions a pet parent can make.

It’s a heartbreaking choice that’s difficult to face, but often, it’s the most compassionate decision we can make for an elderly or suffering pet.

Many pet parents struggle with the decision of whether or not to be present during their pet's euthanasia.

While some find comfort in being there to say goodbye and to provide love during their pet’s final moments, others may find the experience too emotionally overwhelming.

Supporting Pet Parents During the Procedure

Being in the room during their pet's passing can be a deeply emotional and cathartic experience for pet families.

It allows them to say goodbye meaningfully, be there for their pet in their final moments, and provide comfort and love during a difficult time.

Many pet parents find solace in holding their pet, whispering words of love and gratitude, and being there until the end. Knowing that their pet passed away surrounded by love and with their family by their side can help offer a sense of closure.

The experience can also be harrowing, as watching a beloved pet pass away can be one of the most heartbreaking experiences a person can go through.

Amid grief, it may be helpful to remind pet parents that their decision to say goodbye is a final act of love and compassion, a way to honor the bond and the memories they’ve shared.

Coping with Compassion Fatigue

 For veterinary staff, euthanizing a pet with pet parents present can be both emotionally challenging and rewarding.

On one hand, supporting and guiding pet parents through the process can provide a sense of closure and comfort for both the family and the pet. It allows the pet parent to be there for their pet in their final moments, to provide comfort and love, and to ensure that their furry friend is not alone.

Conversely, witnessing pet parents' deep grief and sadness can be difficult for veterinary team members, who often form strong bonds with both the pets and their families.

Watching pet parents say goodbye is an emotionally taxing experience for veterinary teams.

The deep bond between pets and their families is palpable during these moments, and witnessing the grief and heartache can take a toll on even the most seasoned professionals.

To recover from the compassion fatigue that often follows euthanasia with families, consider…

 1. Making time to reflect: Allowing team members to unpack their experiences can help them process their emotions and gain perspective.

 2. Setting professional boundaries: setting boundaries and practicing self-compassion is paramount in our line of work. Encourage team members to recognize their limits and know when to step back or seek additional support.

 3. Engaging in professional development: continuing education and professional development opportunities can help veterinary team members enhance their coping skills and resilience when faced with challenging situations.

Training in grief counseling, communication skills, and emotional intelligence can be hugely beneficial.

 4. Cultivating a supportive work environment: fostering a culture of support, empathy, and understanding within the veterinary practice can help team members feel valued and supported. Encourage open communication, teamwork, and a sense of community.

 It’s important to acknowledge the emotional toll that these experiences can have and prioritize our team’s well-being.

 Ultimately, the decision of whether or not to be present during a pet's euthanasia is a deeply personal one that each pet parent must make for themselves.

There is no right or wrong answer, only what feels suitable for each family

Whether present or not, the love and bond between a pet and their family is eternal, and the memories of their time together will always be cherished.

 As veterinary staff, we must provide compassionate care and support to pets and their families during this difficult time.

We understand the deep love and bond between a pet and their family, and we are here to support and guide them through the process with empathy and understanding.

 In the end, euthanizing a pet with their parents present can be a bittersweet experience. It’s a heartbreaking decision that no one wants to make, but it’s helpful to remember that it’s made out of love and compassion. 

6 Steps To Help Deliver Difficult News to Pet Parents

One of the most challenging parts of our job is preparing to deliver life-altering news to our pet parents.

Delivering a poor prognosis or having an end-of-life talk with pet parents is always a tough conversation, and no conversation is precisely the same.

 Each discussion needs to be approached with empathy, sensitivity, and clarity.

Having a framework that both you and your team can use when delivering tough news to pet parents can be helpful.

SPIKES – Six-Step Protocol for Delivering Bad News

When delivering news that may be shocking or upsetting to our clients, we want to be sure we can share in a clear, honest, and compassionate manner.

Baile and Buckman developed a framework to help health professionals convey the major talking points that should be addressed during these conversations.

SPIKES is a six-step framework that you and your team can use when having difficult conversations with your clients.

So, what does it mean?

SPIKES is a simple acronym to help you remember the framework:

• S- Setup

• P- Perception

• I- Invitation

• K- Knowledge

• E- Emotions

• S- Strategy and summary

Let’s dig in a little deeper…

Step 1: Setup

Setup the discussion in a private and comfortable location. Try to ensure it’s a space that will avoid interruption. If there’re more than one staff member who will be present, be sure you’re both clear on who will deliver the news.

Step 2: Perception

 First, try to understand the pet parent’s perception of their pet’s condition. It can be helpful to understand how serious things are from their perspective and can tell if perhaps they’re in denial.

To help start the conversation, you may ask something simple like, “What have you made of Charlie’s illness so far?”

During this part of the discussion, you can pick up on verbal and non-verbal cues to help you gauge their feelings about the situation. 

Step 3: Invitation 

During this step, we want to respect what our clients are emotionally ready to hear. This step can help you form your delivery.

You might ask, “At what level do you want to know about Charlie’s prognosis.”

This is by no means a way to withhold facts about a patient’s condition or illness, but rather, it may help you understand whether the client is looking for a “straight to the point” answer or if they’d like more detail to better understand the situation.

Step 4: Knowledge

Consider this the “meat and potatoes” of the conversation.

During this step, we want to share:

• Diagnosis

• Treatment Plan (if applicable)

• Prognosis

• How we can support

When possible, share client handouts or written details about the diagnosis, treatment plan, and prognosis. This can help the client digest what’s being shared and make a more informed decision about the next steps.

Step 5: Emotions

 These conversations are always challenging. Try to assess your client’s emotions during your discussion.

• Acknowledge any shock and ask them how they’re feeling.

• Their response may range from silence, distress, denial, or anger.

• If you’re unsure how to respond, try to respond empathetically. Allow some silence to let things sink in.

• Avoid arguing or getting defensive. Do your best to create a space that allows the pet parent to express their emotions without criticism.

Step 6: Strategy and Summary

To wrap things up, summarize what’s been discussed so far and clarify the next steps.  

• Pet parents will likely look to you to help make sense of the news.

• Explain what will happen next and what they can expect.

After the Conversation

After the conversation and your client has left, would you like a moment to yourself before seeing your next patient?

If taking a break at that moment doesn't work, you should plan for when you can find some breathing space within the next hour.

Suppose you’ve been following along with our recent series of articles. In that case, you know the demanding nature of the veterinary field can lead to high-stress levels and burnout among veterinary teams.

Be sure to prioritize your needs and well-being during high stress.

Take breaks, practice mindfulness, and engage in activities outside of work that make you feel recharged and refocused.

Remember, you’re not alone. Lean on your team for support and contact a professional who can offer tailored and personalized support. 

How to Overcome Saying Goodbye to Their Canine Patients

When the veterinary community is mentioned, we often envision a team of compassionate and dedicated individuals who work tirelessly to care for our beloved furry friends.

While that is true, many people may not realize the emotional toll of the job, especially the difficult task of saying goodbye to patients we often grow very close to.

 No matter how experienced we are, euthanizing a dog is never easy.

It is a decision that weighs heavily on the hearts of those involved.

Choosing to say goodbye means they must come to terms with the fact that they’re ending a life that is loved and cherished.

The bond between a dog and its parent(s) is truly special, and facilitating the end of that bond is heartbreaking.

 The emotional burden of euthanizing dogs is a leading cause of compassion fatigue and burnout among veterinary teams.

Compassion fatigue is a type of emotional exhaustion that comes from caring for others suffering. When faced with the difficult task of putting down a dog, it can take a toll on even the most resilient of people.

The constant exposure to heartache and grief can leave us feeling drained and overwhelmed, making it difficult to continue providing the level of care that we pride ourselves on.

Veterinary teams can face several challenges when euthanizing dogs.

They may face:

• Moral stress: This can result from a veterinarian’s recommendation differing from a pet parent’s. For example, an owner may not want to euthanize their dog, but the Veterinarian believes the pet is suffering. Alternatively, an owner may request euthanasia when the Veterinarian feels there’s a viable treatment option.

• Ethical challenges: Whether euthanasia is considered an ethical challenge may depend on the reasons for the request.

• Emotional weight: euthanasia is emotionally taxing, and it can be hard to focus on the medical or moral reasons for the goodbye.

•  What’s talked about least is what comes after euthanasia…

• …More often than not, we have appointments to follow. We must gather, switch gears, and move on to our next patient.

 This transition can be incredibly challenging as we put aside our emotions and focus on providing the best care for the next family.

This ability to compartmentalize our emotions and remain present for each patient requires special resilience and strength.

To help with these challenges, some recommend:

• Take time to prepare the owner before the procedure. Be sure to set expectations and share what is within and outside the veterinary team’s control.

• Setting clear expectations from the start can help prevent unwanted surprises and improve the experience.

• Schedule some “flex” time after euthanasia appointments. Give yourself and your team breathing room before seeing your next patient.

• Start a tradition. Some hospitals decorate a small rock for each patient who passes in their care and leave it near the entrance or a nearby tree. This is a meaningful practice for pet parents and veterinary teams to ensure their beloved pet (or patient) is not forgotten.

• Despite the emotional hardships that come with the job, we continue to show up daily, providing compassionate care for our patients.

  Your dedication to your community and your unwavering commitment to the well-being of your patients is truly inspiring.

  Veterinary staff are scarcely recognized or appreciated for the sacrifices they make daily to offer our support and compassion.

 The heavy toll of euthanasia does not go unrecognized.

Despite the emotional challenges we face, we remain committed to the health, wellness, and needs of the patients who draw us in every day.  

Take this moment to know you’re appreciated. Your tireless work to care for your patients and our community is acknowledged and valued.

Finding Work-Life Balance as a Mobile Veterinarian

“Struggling to balance work and life as a mobile veterinarian? You’re not alone. Our demanding, unpredictable days often leave us overcommitted and burnt out. Discover practical tips to prioritize, delegate, and say “no,” fostering a healthier work-life harmony while providing exceptional care.”

Finding work-life balance as a mobile veterinarian can feel nearly impossible.

Despite the loving patients, supportive community, and medical mysteries that keep us returning for more – we often find ourselves overexerted and burnt out.

We’re no strangers to long, demanding, unpredictable workdays and patient needs.

We’re also no strangers to neglecting or compromising pieces of our personal lives for the job.

Chronically overcommitting is our forte. And a patient in need is our kryptonite.

As veterinary professionals, we’re naturally type-A, empathetic folks who aspire to make life a little better for our patients and their owners/parents.

Although we don’t like to admit it, the imbalance between work and home life is something we’ve normalized but not something we must continue to settle for.

So, how do you break the cycle?

Let’s not pretend it’s easy to do – it’s certainly not. But it is doable.

It helps to start small. We don’t have to eat the whole watermelon at once.

Making drastic changes can inadvertently have the opposite effect, causing added stress and overwhelm.

One of the most impactful and, inadvertently, most challenging things we can do is to say “no.”

Raise your hand if you struggle using this word …

If that’s you, you’re not alone

You may have heard the phrase “No is a full sentence”. It’s time we start using it as one.

Regrettably, veterinary professionals want to help in any way we can.

We hate to disappoint or feel like we’ve let someone down.

By saying “yes” to one thing, you may not realize that you’re saying “no” to another in that same breath.

For example, by saying “yes” to that last-minute, non-emergent appointment, you’re saying “no” to eating dinner with your family.

Saying “no” starts to become a little easier when you have a good grasp on your priorities and can delegate appropriate tasks to others.

If you could use a little boost in these areas, Try starting here:

• Prioritizing: Give this a try - find 15 minutes to sit down and intentionally think about your routine priorities.

• Start by taking a sheet of paper and drawing a line down the center.

• Label the left side “Professional” and the right side “Personal.”

• Take 5 minutes to brainstorm your professional priorities (patient appointments, inventory, etc.).

• Use the next 5 minutes to repeat the same exercise for the personal side.

• Take a look at your list. With a highlighter, highlight the ones that bring you joy.

• If by the end of this exercise, you're alarmed by the lack of joy you experience daily. It’s a good sign that it’s time to make some tweaks.

Delegate: Ask yourself: what tasks can I have someone else take over? These can be work-related tasks or personal ones. Do you have a team member looking for opportunities that you can empower to take on something new? Believe it or not, most of us find it easy to overfill our plates but struggle to take something off.

Let’s look at some ways to disconnect after a long day.

Use the alarm on your phone

You can wrap up your day by using the alarm feature on your phone.

Set an alarm for 30 minutes before you’re scheduled to finish and another for 30 minutes after.

When the first alarm goes off, start planning your exit.

If you’ve not started making your way home by the time the second alarm goes off… it’s time to go.

There will undoubtedly be days when you cannot abide by this rule, but for most days, try to make this a new personal rule (apply the 80/20 rule if you can)!

On the car ride home…

Whether just around the block or an hour-long trek back, it can be the perfect space to start disconnecting.

Consider this…

Listen to a podcast: find a podcast that helps you to switch your brain off from work mode. Do you love a good mystery, some comedy, or personal development? You can get a recommendation from a friend or search for topics you're interested in.

A quick hello: Use this time to connect with friends and loved ones. It doesn’t have to be lengthy, but you’d be surprised what a friendly voice can do to boost your spirits. Try to avoid work-related topics.

In your free time, if you haven’t joined one of the many online communities of veterinarians through social media sites, consider joining. (This can also be a small but helpful way to break up your day between appointments.)

Sometimes, just having a brief conversation (or even reading conversations) with those who wear similar shoes can be validating and relieving.

Remember…Your community needs you. 

Not only for the world-class veterinary care you provide but also for all the value you bring to the world outside of working hours.

Our selfless ambition to improve the lives of pets and their parents is often an unintentional bend toward perfectionism, which can negatively affect our mentality.

If you, or someone you know in the veterinary community, are struggling with ongoing overwhelm, burnout, anxiety, or depression, rest assured you have a shoulder to lean on. Here are just a few of the many resources committed to our well-being:

· NOMV (Not One More Vet): https://www.nomv.org/

· Vets4Vets: https://vinfoundation.org/resources/vets4vets/

· BetterHelp: https://www.betterhelp.com/

Boost Morale in Your Practice: Three Effective Ways To Help

““Veterinary professionals face compassion fatigue, burnout, and poor culture. This blog offers practical tips for boosting team morale and well-being, reducing turnover, and enhancing your practice’s reputation. Learn how to start with good news, connect work to purpose, and gauge team happiness effectively.””

3 ways to Improve Culture and Reduce Compassion Fatigue in Your Practice

It’s undeniable that compassion fatigue and burnout are two of the highest-ranking issues working in the veterinary field.

Poor culture doesn’t fall far behind.

We’re constantly faced with the emotional toll of caring for sick and injured patients and distressed or grieving pet parents.

While it is essential to have empathy and compassion for the patients we care for, it’s equally important to take care of ourselves and support our teams.

Improving practice culture and team wellbeing is not easy and certainly doesn’t happen overnight.

Taking a step back to recognize the need for positive change in your hospital can help to:

• Decrease staff turnover & increase satisfaction

• Enhance your practice’s reputation

• Improve staff wellbeing & encourage work/life balance

There are lots of resources floating around about “how to improve team morale” and “what to do to prevent burnout.”

Many share advice like “set boundaries,” “focus on team wellbeing,” and “practice self-care.”

All of this is valid advice, but there’s a gap between what we’re being told and how to apply it.

So, let’s start to get a little more specific…

Here are three ways to improve culture and reduce compassion fatigue in your practice – AND – ways you can apply them.

1. Start with Good News!

Team culture significantly contributes to how you view and experience your work.

You can start to sway a more positive team culture by baking good news into the day.

Practices that start their day/shift with good news experience:

• Higher rates of engagement

• A better sense of team building, connection & community

• Increased emotional resilience

What type of good news are we talking about…

Choose your adventure here!

Good news could be related to work or professional development. (I placed my first urinary catheter yesterday!)

It could be something personal. (My partner and I just closed on our new house!)

It could be something that happened over the weekend or something they’re looking forward to. (I just booked a cruise for the end of the year!)

Or, good news can be sharing something new you’ve learned. (Yesterday, I realized that a group of geese is called a “gaggle”! Who knew?!)

What might sharing good news look like?

Good news can be sprinkled throughout your day wherever it makes the most sense to your practice. It doesn’t have to be lengthy or detailed—short and sweet will do the trick!

Here are a few ideas to get you started:

• Rounds: If your hospital does rounds at the start of each shift, ask each person to start by sharing good news before diving into patient updates.

• Team huddles: if your practice starts each day off with a team huddle, start the meeting by sharing good news! (Have a large staff? Consider asking for three volunteers each day to share to keep it brief)

• Whiteboard: don’t have daily gatherings with your team? Consider setting up a whiteboard in a common area (the break room, treatment area, etc.) and ask the team to write their good news at the start of their shift.

The Washington Post stated that 7/10 Americans suffer from negative news fatigue in their article “The Good News Effect. “

The article concerns what we often consume through news and social media.

While we can’t control what our team consumes through their many downloaded platforms, we can be intentional about bringing good news into their day.

Encouraging the brain to think about something positive, even during times that feel draining or overwhelming, can have a long-term effect on wellbeing.

2. Link work + Purpose

It’s a sad, common misconception that you need to be saving the world to feel like what you do is meaningful.

All too often, we hear phrases like “I’m just a receptionist,” “I’m just a Vet Tech,” or “I just work in general practice.”

We either lack pride or feel judged by our roles as if we have little value.

As veterinary leaders, we can help our teams (and often ourselves) flip the script.

Every role in the hospital holds value, and every person is important. It’s our job to empower our teams to take pride in their purpose.

How can we do that?

You can be creative with this one! Here are a few ideas to get you started:

• Create a “why” or “purpose” statement: reserve a little time at your next team meeting to give the team 5-10 minutes of silence to think of and jot down why they come to work every day. What’s fulfilling to them? What inspires them? What impact do they feel they make to the hospital or veterinary community?

• Create Vision Boards: this could be fun for a team meeting or outing activity and can be done the old-fashioned way (paper, magazines, scrapbooking material) or digitally, using a free digital creative space or even a Pinterest board. Have the team build their “vision” behind why they love their jobs and how they hope to see it grow.

Tip: These activities can be done individually and as a team.

For example, you may have each team member create individual vision boards and then create a team vision board as a group. A personal vision board might include their goal to learn how to perform an ultrasound and some photos of their pets since they’re their inspiration.

The team vision board might include photos of favorite patients, getting that new intensive care unit for the treatment area, and getting AHAA Certified.

3. Scraps in the bucket

Do you have a pulse on your team’s culture and overall happiness at work?

It can be challenging to gauge, especially in hospitals with a large staff or multiple departments.

Can’t I send out a survey?

Sure, surveys are undoubtedly helpful.

But what if you could get a pulse on how many good days the team experiences vs the not-so-great ones in a fun and interactive way?

Here’s an idea you can try:

Most hospitals have abundant scrap paper (even in the era of trying to go “paperless”). Why not put it to use, even after it’s been used?

• Put two buckets in a common area (near the lockers, breakroom, or the hospital’s exit in the back).

• Label bucket 1: I had a good day!

• Label bucket 2: Tomorrow will be better (or “I’ve not had a great day”, or simply “bad day”).

• Have the team crumple a piece of scrap paper and toss it into one of the buckets before they leave.

This can be a fun way to determine whether your team has more good days than bad or vice versa overall.

Don’t have a lot of scrap paper laying around?

First of all, bravo! Feel free to use an alternative. Some practices have used things like ping pong balls.

One practice got creative, buying two rubber dart boards and extra darts (the ones that won’t destroy the walls, of course) and placing them in the breakroom.

One was labeled “I had a great day” and the other “I had a bad day”.

All these activities can help foster a positive work environment, nurture team building, and bring a little fun into the mix.

Reducing compassion fatigue and improving culture isn’t a “one size fits all” solution; it requires an intentional approach and a gentle reminder that we’re all in this together. 

Mental Health: Combat Compassion Fatigue & Stress

““As a veterinary community, we prioritize patient care, but the job’s demands strain mental health. Recognize and address issues like compassion fatigue. Find support through NOMV, AVMA, and AAHA to ensure well-being. Remember, asking for help and prioritizing your health is okay.””

Caring for Pets, Coping with Stress: The Mental Health Challenges of Veterinary Professionals

As a veterinary community, we dedicate our lives to caring for our patients and prioritizing their well-being.

We have a deep passion for helping our patients and their parents, but often, the demands of the job can take a toll on our mental health.

From handling complex cases to managing the emotional burden of poor diagnosis and euthanasia, it's easy to feel overwhelmed and burnt out.

Not to mention the stress of owning, managing, and maintaining a successful practice.

The veterinary profession, where so many rely on your care, makes it even more crucial for veterinarians to have their own support system.

It's a tragic reality that suicide is a serious concern within the field, with 1 in 6 experienced suicidal ideation since leaving veterinary school.

It feels cliché to sy, “It's important to prioritize your mental health,” but just as you prioritize the health of your patients, your well-being is paramount to a fulfilling work life.

Compassion fatigue is a genuine issue that so many of our peers face…

…And unfortunately, it’s grown a sense of normalcy within our community.

Working in a high-stakes field like veterinary medicine can feel like it comes at a price, but recognizing signs and symptoms early within ourselves and our teams can help keep that cost low.

One of the most essential things leadership teams can do is acknowledge the existence of mental health and wellbeing issues in the profession and provide support and a sense of teamwork and community for their teams.

A shift happens when compassion fatigue and burnout start to kick in.

You may experience symptoms like:

• Decreased energy

• Overwhelming feelings of burnout/disengagement

• Generalized anxiety or depression

• Difficulty concentrating and sleeping

• Rumination about recent cases with unfavorable outcomes

• Thoughts of harming yourself to escape problems

These same symptoms are ones to watch out for in our peers, too. They can easily brush aside and chalk up to having a “bad week, month, or year.”

This is why it’s so important to recognize the warning signs and have some strategies in your back pocket to help curb the mental burden these symptoms cause.

To start, you may have to ask yourself or your peers some challenging questions.

• What might be the root of these symptoms?

• What’s within my control to change? What’s outside of my control?

• Am I putting more pressure/stress on myself than is necessary?

As you start to answer some of these questions, here are a few things that may help that are within the realm of your control:

• Avoid perfectionism– always seeking perfect solutions exacerbates stress and anxiety.

• Avoid comparing yourself to others– it’s said that comparison is the thief of joy. Comparison leads to envy and a lack of self-esteem. Focus on recognizing and continuing to strengthen your talents and skills.

• Set boundaries– Serving your clients is essential, but there’s a fine line between being helpful and allowing work to overstep into your personal life. Achieving a healthy work-life balance will promote your desire for longevity to continue the work that brings you joy.

• Prioritize yourself– Make time for activities that bring you joy and relaxation, whether exercising, spending time with loved ones, or engaging in a hobby. Stop making excuses. Taking breaks and setting boundaries with work can help prevent burnout and replenish your mental and emotional reserves.

• Find connections: whether it's talking to fellow colleagues, seeking therapy, or joining a support group, having a safe space to share your feelings and experiences can make a world of difference.

In addition to seeking support and practicing self-care, there are resources available specifically for veterinarians dealing with mental health challenges.

Organizations like Not One More Vet,  the American Veterinary Medical Association, and AHAA offer resources, support, and access to mental health professionals who understand veterinarians' unique challenges.

NOMV emphasizes raising mental health awareness in the veterinary profession and research to reduce suicide rates of veterinary professionals. Through an online network, NOMV provides support and healing efforts to show you that you are not alone.

As part of their work, NOMV  also works with veterinarians to build a support network of therapists and other mental health resources.

Similarly, American Veterinary Medical Association (AVMA) provides well-being tools and resources such as:

Wellbeing Assessment for Veterinarians A self-care planning guide

Steps to create a healthy working environment AVMA Journals Collection on Wellbeing

Promoting a healthy work culture of support and care increases productivity and feelings of self-worth. AVMA also informs veterinarians about how to receive help and encourages the use of preventative measures regarding mental and physical health.

You can also find a wealth of helpful well-being articles on the AAHA website geared toward mental health and well-being for the veterinary community (check out: AAHA Guide to Veterinary Practice Team Wellbeing).

Remember, it's okay not to be okay, and asking for help is a sign of strength, not weakness.

So, take a moment today to check in with yourself and your team and prioritize mental health.

We all deserve to feel supported, cared for, and valued.

Take this as a gentle reminder that you’re not alone in this journey, and resources and coping strategies are available to help you navigate the challenges of the job with compassion and resilience.

Overcoming compassion fatigue for Veterinarians

““Veterinarians often face compassion fatigue, stemming from the emotional toll of their work. Recognizing signs like burnout and emotional exhaustion is crucial. By setting boundaries and prioritizing self-care, vets can manage this fatigue. Learn practical strategies for maintaining your well-being and delivering exceptional care in our latest blog.””

Compassion fatigue is a genuine and often overlooked issue many veterinarians face in our work.

The demanding nature of the job, the emotional toll of caring for sick and injured patients, and the pressure to provide the best possible care can all contribute to feelings of overwhelm and exhaustion.

Thankfully, there are strategies that veterinarians can use to overcome compassion fatigue and continue to provide the high level of care that their patients deserve.

 First and foremost, it’s essential to recognize the signs of compassion fatigue (also known as empathetic distress) in ourselves and those we work closely with. These signs may include:

• Feelings of burnout

• Emotional exhaustion

• Cynicism

• Decreased sense of personal accomplishment

Once we recognize these signs, we can take steps to address and manage the things we’re most struggling with.

Setting clear boundaries is an act of self-compassion and respect.

Setting Boundaries is one of the best (often most challenging) strategies for overcoming compassion fatigue.

Learning to say no when feeling overwhelmed, giving yourself permission to take breaks, and prioritizing self-care are often frowned upon in our field.  

Veterinary teams are filled with caring, empathetic individuals who are notorious for overcommitting and overburdening themselves, making it difficult to set boundaries with colleagues and pet parents.

Setting some self-boundaries is a great place to start! Ask yourself:

• What limitations can I set around being contacted during personal time?

•  What can I delegate to a colleague or team member to reduce feeling overwhelmed?

•  How can I empower my team to handle challenging situations so I’m pulled in less frequently?

• What can I do to prioritize myself and the things that bring me joy?

Having even so much as a general answer to some of these questions can help you start to set some boundaries to reduce feeling overstressed.

How can you set boundaries with pet parents?

Setting a boundary with your clients can feel uncomfortable at first. To get started, you’ll need to identify the types of behavior you’ll tolerate and those you won’t.

For example, you might be willing to tolerate a pet parent sharing their frustration over an extended wait in the lobby.

Still, you’re unwilling to tolerate yelling, foul language, or verbal abuse toward you or your staff.

Next, you’ll need to kindly yet firmly communicate the boundary you’ve set. This part can feel a little uncomfortable if it’s not part of your daily practice.

For example, “Thank you for sharing your feedback, Mr. Smith. While I understand your frustration, my team and I will not tolerate abrasive behavior. I’d like to ask that you reduce your tone, or I’ll have to move on to my next appointment.”

Setting boundaries with your clients demonstrates compassion for your team, encourages respect from pet parents, and protects your mental health.

Tip: This can be a great team-building activity at a staff meeting.

• By allowing the team to collectively establish acceptable and unacceptable behavior (both internally and from clients), you empower each of them to have a voice. You can equip them with strategies to use when facing a difficult situation.

• Consider adding boundary-setting and reinforcement strategies to your next team huddle so your team feels prepared to enforce the boundaries you’ve agreed upon.

• Self-care is a close second for the best strategies to overcome compassion fatigue.

 Self-care means taking the time to prioritize your own physical, emotional, and mental well-being. Making daily choices to engage in activities that bring joy and relaxation, like:

• Exercise (going to the gym, rollerblading, dance, martial arts…)

• Hobbies (reading, coaching, golfing, DIY projects)

• Spending time with loved ones

All too often, we feel dedicating time to ourselves feels selfish, or “we’ll get to it tomorrow,” but over time, it harms our interactions with our staff, patients, and clients.

Studies have shown that regular self-care enhances Veterinarians' ability to continue caring for patients compassionately, safely, and more accurately (decreasing mistakes and enabling critical thinking).

Remember, it is not selfish to prioritize your well-being…

…it’s necessary to continue to show up as the best version of yourself for your patients and clients. If we don’t take a moment to recharge ourselves, we won’t have enough juice left to help those who need us most.

Wellbeing Resources Geared Toward the Veterinary Community

The American Veterinary Medical Association (AVMA) hosts a number of CE-accredited trainings and webinars  and offers a free wellbeing assessment along with some helpful self-care tools   

Not One More Vet (NOMV) is an organization that works tirelessly to support the well-being of the veterinary community

Suicide and Crisis prevention Hotline offers free, confidential support for those in distress

Don’t allow yourself or your team to suffer alone. Don’t wait. Reach out. Speak up.  

Burnout vs. Compassion Fatigue in Veterinary Medicine

““Discover the differences between burnout and compassion fatigue in veterinary medicine. Understand how prolonged stress and emotional tolls from treating sick animals can impact well-being. Learn effective self-care strategies and leadership roles in maintaining a healthy work environment.””

Working in the field of veterinary medicine is incredibly rewarding.

We provide comfort and treatment to patients with illness, disease, and injury.

We’re privileged to nurse sick patients back to health and experience the joy of being reunited with their families.

…But our line of work also has its fair share of challenges.

One of the biggest obstacles that veterinary professionals face is the risk of burnout and compassion fatigue.

Both can significantly impact the mental and emotional well-being of those working in the industry, but it is important to understand the differences between them.

Let’s start with burnout.

Burnout is a state of emotional, physical, and mental exhaustion caused by excessive and prolonged stress.

In the veterinary space, feelings of burnout can occur when we are constantly faced with demanding workloads, long hours, and emotional distress from dealing with sick or injured animals. It’s chronic and happens gradually over time.

Burnout can lead to feelings of:

• Frustration

• Exhaustion

• Cynicism

• A sense of detachment/alienation from the job

Burnout can also manifest as physical symptoms…

You might see or experience symptoms such as fatigue, headaches, insomnia, and a lack of self-care.

 On the other hand…

…compassion fatigue is a specific type of burnout

Compassion fatigue (also known as empathy fatigue) occurs when individuals are regularly exposed to the suffering/trauma of others.

In our field, compassion fatigue can develop as a result of repeatedly witnessing the pain and suffering of patients, as well as the emotional toll of dealing with grieving pet parents.

Compounded stress results from an ongoing wish to relieve suffering from patients and pet parents (often followed by feelings of failure), which can lead to feelings of hopelessness, guilt, and a decreased ability to empathize with others.

The very nature of our work exposes us to the (often) sad reality of patient decline and owner distress or loss.

 Burnout and compassion fatigue are serious issues that can profoundly impact the well-being of veterinary professionals.

Veterinary teams must recognize the signs and symptoms of these conditions and take steps to prevent and address them.

 One way to combat burnout and compassion fatigue is through self-care practices.

Self-care means preserving time for personal well-being, such as:

• Regular exercise

• Healthy eating

• Adequate rest

• Actively participating in hobbies outside of work

• Spending time with friends and family

If you’re struggling with burnout and/or compassion fatigue, seek support from colleagues, friends, and mental health professionals immediately.

Building a solid support network can help us cope with the challenges of the job and prevent feelings of isolation and overwhelm.

Additionally, veterinary organizations and leadership teams play a crucial role in addressing burnout and compassion fatigue by offering resources such as:

• Counseling services

• Stress management workshops

• Flexible work schedules

As leaders, we need to prioritize our own well-being to help maintain a supportive and healthy work environment for our teams and empower them to continue providing the best care for our patients.

By recognizing the signs of burnout and compassion fatigue and taking proactive steps to address these issues, we enable our teams to continue making a positive impact in the lives of our patients and pet parents.

Well-being Resources Geared Toward the Veterinary Community

American Veterinary Medical Association (AVMA) hosts a number of CE-accredited trainings and webinars  and offers a free wellbeing assessment along with some helpful self-care tools   

Not One More Vet (NOMV) is an organization that works tirelessly to support the well-being of the veterinary community

Suicide and Crisis prevention Hotline offers free, confidential support for those in distress

Don’t allow yourself or your team to suffer alone. Don’t wait. Reach out. Speak up.  

3 Signs of Compassion Fatigue in Veterinary Medicine

““Discover three signs of compassion fatigue in veterinary medicine. Learn to recognize physical, emotional, and behavioral symptoms like exhaustion, anxiety, and withdrawal. Awareness and early intervention are critical. Explore resources from AVMA and NOMV to support well-being.””

As Veterinary caregivers, we’re deeply motivated to serve our patients and deliver the best possible care. 

We’re no strangers to the phrase “we don’t deserve pets.” Their unwavering love and loyalty are gifts we’re so fortunate to experience.

The American Veterinary Medical Association (AVMA) defines the human-animal bond as “a mutually beneficial and dynamic relationship between people and the animals that are influenced by behaviors that are essential to the health and well-being of both.”

This bond brings joy, warmth, and laughter to the workday, and being surrounded by like-minded, compassionate coworkers makes the work environment that much brighter.

But, with the stress of being understaffed, working long hours, and repeated exposure to trauma and grief…

…it’s easy for a bright environment to feel dark.

All too often, veterinary teams struggle with feeling overworked.

Pair that with bearing witness to abuse, neglect, and euthanasia… It’s easy to see why compassion fatigue is so common among our peers.

Compassion Fatigue is a result of extreme exhaustion unique to compassionate caregivers regularly exposed to loss or trauma.

There’s a growing awareness that caregivers of all kinds should make sure they make time to care for themselves.

Why?

It’s the same reason you’re told on a flight to put on your own oxygen mask first before helping others.

At the risk of sounding cliche, the phrase “you can’t pour from an empty cup” couldn’t be more accurate.

Like our feline patients, veterinary teams often hide signs of being overwhelmed. They often appear stoic, professional, and productive, which can make recognizing signs of compassion fatigue difficult.

The more we know about compassion fatigue, the better we can identify the symptoms…

…and step in to support our peers when they need us most.

Let’s take a moment to unpack three common signs of compassion fatigue to be on the lookout for: 

#1:  Physical signs

Compassion fatigue might physically present itself.

Let’s take Dr. Isaacs, for example.

Since her associate is on maternity leave, she’s trying to maintain 3x of her normal caseload, and this week, there’s been an unusual amount of euthanasia on the schedule.

You notice she’s been wearing the same scrubs for the past three days and hasn’t taken her usual lunch or snack breaks.

You overhear a client comment on her tired appearance during their pet’s physical exam. Dr. Isaacs casually shares that she’s not been sleeping well and has had intermittent headaches.

Little red flags are going up. She’s showing common physical signs that she’s experiencing compassion fatigue including:

• Exhaustion & headaches

• Changes in sleep patterns or appetite

• Lack of self-care

• Stomachaches & digestive changes

#2: Emotional signs

It’s not uncommon for compassion fatigue to appear more emotionally.

Take Ashley, for example.

Ashley has been a Veterinary ER nurse for 6 years and is well experienced. She has a great reputation for acting quickly, calmly, and rationally during patient crises.

Lately, you’ve noticed she’s been hypervigilant about her patients and hasn’t been as social with the team. When patient outcomes aren’t successful, she becomes easily overwhelmed, emotional, and negative.

Sudden mood swings or overreacting aren’t uncommon symptoms.

You might also witness:

• Increased anxiety or sadness

• Feelings of guilt or helplessness

• Difficulty concentrating

• Hypersensitivity or insensitivity to emotional experiences

#3 Behavioral changes

For this one, let’s talk about Daniel.

Daniel has only been a receptionist for a few months but has learned the ropes quickly.

Due to a recent heat wave, the hospital has seen an influx of patients suffering from heat-related complications, many of whom have had unfortunate and unexpected goodbyes.

Although Daniel has been very friendly and easy to work with up to this point, you notice his patience threshold decreasing. He often disappears to the breakroom for extended periods and has been very quiet during his shifts.

Since his time in practice has been so limited, it might surprise you to learn that he’s struggling with compassion fatigue.

He’s demonstrating common signs like:

• Isolation or withdrawal

• Irritability

• Lower tolerance to frustration

Compassion fatigue doesn’t have boundaries

It doesn’t discriminate against your time or experience in practice or the role you serve at the hospital.

If you’re experiencing some of the symptoms listed above, know you’re not alone. Do your best to be open and transparent with your team about your feelings and what you might need to recover.

As a leadership team, we want to foster a culture that supports the mental and emotional well-being of our employees.

At the very least, we want to ensure that our team is aware of and has access to resources that could significantly impact their well-being.

Wellbeing Resources Geared Toward the Veterinary Community

The American Veterinary Medical Association (AVMA) hosts a number of CE-accredited trainings and webinars  and offers a free wellbeing assessment along with some helpful self-care tools   

Not One More Vet (NOMV) is an organization that works tirelessly to support the well-being of the veterinary community

Suicide and Crisis prevention Hotline offers free, confidential support for those in distress

Don’t allow yourself or your team to suffer alone. Don’t wait. Reach out. Speak up.