Vetoquinol UK, a veterinary pharmaceutical company, has established that vets are currently facing excessively demanding workloads. The data is a result of a study of over 200 veterinary professionals, which found that 63% feel their mental health has worsened since taking up their profession.
Factors contributing to their poor mental status include high-stress levels and unmanageable expectations from clients. Staff shortages and the pandemic pet ownership boom have contributed to something of a crisis in the field, which in the survey translated to over 40% of vets stating that their mental health is below average.
Nearly 67% of the participants shared that they chose the career because of a love of animals and a passion for improving their welfare. As such, or many, the occupation is often more than just a job.
Currently a primary contributing factor to despondency is that 67% of respondents believe there is enough support in the industry to help them navigate difficult times. But the survey revealed that 78% do know where they can seek help if required. Of the respondents, 72% feel that they have someone with whom they can converse with about work frustrations.
In terms of aid, the vets highlighted in-practice support through dedicated programmes and free counselling, as well as addressing problems in the industry.
Managing director at Vetoquinol UK, Caitrina Oakes, comments that, “The findings from this research have highlighted a harrowing truth — that veterinary professionals from all sectors have been stretched to breaking point. Vets and their teams are sacrificing their well-being to protect the welfare of our farm, equine, and companion animals. It is now time for pet owners and businesses to recognise the mental strain this is putting on the industry.”