Caring for the Careivers - It’s Time to Rethink Veterinary Staff Support
The veterinary industry is in crisis, facing high stress levels among veterinarians, techs, and front office staff. Discover how to support your team and improve retention and well-being in your veterinary practice.
EMPLOYEE BENEFITSMENTAL HEALTH
5/1/20251 min read
The Pressure Is Real
Veterinary professionals rank among the highest in emotional fatigue and burnout.
Nearly 90% of veterinarians report emotional exhaustion in their roles.
Vet techs face burnout levels comparable to, or even greater than, professionals in human healthcare.
Over 50% of veterinary staff report symptoms of anxiety or depression.
Add in the emotional weight of caring for sick animals, long hours and staffing shortages.. it’s no surprise that practices are struggling to retain talent.
The Financial and Emotional Cost
Traditional benefits just aren’t cutting it. More than 30% say they’ve delayed care due to cost or inconvenience. And younger employees entering the workforce expect more than a once-a-year check-up—they want 24/7 access, mental health support, and real solutions that fit their lives.
Even more alarming: without proactive wellness resources in place, practices are at greater risk of high turnover. A recent study found that over 40% of veterinary technicians are considering leaving the profession within five years.
A Smarter Solution
Providing the practice with 24/7 access to virtual care—including mental health therapy, dermatology, nutrition, and primary care—with $0 copays can make a massive difference in staff morale, mental health, and engagement.
It’s not just about offering a benefit. It’s about offering the right one—something employees will actually use and value. When your team feels supported, your practice becomes a place people want to stay.
Final Thought
The cost of doing nothing is too high. If you're not actively exploring better benefit options for your veterinary team, you're likely overlooking one of the most powerful tools for improving retention, morale, and care quality.
Let’s talk. You may be just one conversation away from transforming how your team feels—and performs.