When you bring your pet to Shepton & Wells Vets you see a team that is calm, caring, and dedicated to providing the very best care. What is less visible is the emotional load that often comes with working in the veterinary profession.

Across the UK, veterinary professionals experience higher-than-average levels of stress, anxiety, and burnout. This is why “Vetlife”, the veterinary profession’s independent support charity, plays such an important role in caring for those who care for your animals. The RCVS (Royal College of Veterinary Surgeons) also recognises the need for additional support within the veterinary industry and as such have ruled that all veterinary practices must have a “Suicide Prevention Plan” in place by 1st April 2026.

Why veterinary work can be emotionally challenging

Veterinary professionals are drawn to their careers by compassion and commitment. However, the reality of the job often includes pressures that many people outside the profession don’t see.

These include:

• Emotionally demanding situations, such as serious illness and euthanasia
• High responsibility, where decisions can have life-changing consequences
• Financial limitations, which can be distressing for both clients and staff
• Long and unpredictable hours, including emergency and out-of-hours work
• Exposure to grief and loss on a regular basis

While the profession is deeply rewarding and we all love what we do, the emotional demands can accumulate over time leading to compassion fatigue or burnout.

Signs may include:

• Physical and emotional exhaustion
• Difficulty switching off from work
• Reduced confidence or enjoyment
• Anxiety, low mood, or feeling overwhelmed

These challenges are common within the profession, but they are not always visible or openly discussed.

“Vetlife” is a UK charity dedicated to supporting everyone in the veterinary profession, including vets, nurses, receptionists, students, and practice staff. Vetlife provides a free, confidential 24/7 Helpline, mental health and emotional support, practical resources and signposting.

In 2025 they reported a 27% increase in helpline contacts compared to 2024, handling a total of 6,481 contacts that translated to an average of nearly 18 people reaching out daily for support. Their message is simple but vital: “no one in the veterinary profession should have to cope alone”. You can find out more about their work at www.vetlife.org.uk.

How clients can make a difference

Clients play an important role in supporting veterinary wellbeing. Small moments of understanding can have a lasting impact.

You can help by:

• Being patient if appointments are delayed – emergencies can happen unexpectedly
• Asking questions while recognising that outcomes are not always predictable
• Remembering that the team genuinely cares about your pet
• Offering kindness – a thank-you, a positive review, or a smile can mean a great deal

Your understanding helps create a kinder, more supportive environment for everyone and we are very lucky that our clients are usually very considerate and equally as compassionate, which makes our jobs so much easier and fulfilling.

About the author

This article is written by Rhian Rochford, who is deeply committed to improving mental health awareness within the veterinary profession. Rhian has achieved a Level 2 Certificate in Understanding Mental Health First Aid and Mental Health Advocacy in the workplace. She is a strong advocate for psychological safety, open conversations, early support, and compassionate workplace cultures within veterinary practice.