In a recent groundbreaking survey, the spotlight was turned on the often-overlooked heroes of animal care: veterinarians. The “Going Beyond Survey 2024,” spearheaded by Kynetec and supported by Boehringer Ingelheim, delved into how veterinarians perceive the appreciation of their critical work. Alarmingly, less than half of the veterinarians surveyed felt that their professional contributions were truly valued.
Fabio Paganini, a seasoned veterinarian and a member of the Global Animal Health Executive Committee at Boehringer Ingelheim, emphasized the importance of understanding and acknowledging the multifaceted nature of veterinary work. “As veterinarians, we engage deeply with our work, driven by a relentless dedication and a profound compassion for animal welfare. It’s crucial that our efforts are recognized not just within our community but by society at large,” he stated.
The survey, which gathered insights from over a thousand veterinarians specializing in companion animals, livestock, and equines across six countries, revealed a consistent theme: a lack of appreciation across all branches of the veterinary profession. Despite 75% of respondents feeling personally appreciated by their clients, many felt that the broader scope of their professional expertise and the emotional and physical toll of their work were not fully understood or valued.
Veterinarians reported that while clients appreciated their expertise and ethical decision-making, there was a significant gap in recognition when it came to the personal sacrifices made by these professionals, including their resilience to stress and the physical exhaustion that comes with the job.
In response to these findings, Boehringer Ingelheim, in collaboration with global veterinary associations like the World Small Animal Veterinary Association (WSAVA) and the World Association for Buiatrics (WAB), is taking proactive steps to enhance the visibility and appreciation of veterinarians. These initiatives aim to highlight the critical, yet often unseen, aspects of veterinary care and the profound impact these professionals have on animal and community health.
Dr. Ellen Van Nierop, president of WSAVA, passionately voiced the need for action. “We cannot remain passive as our colleagues face the daunting challenges of stress and burnout. Veterinarians are indispensable, not only to animal health but to societal well-being at large. It’s time we bring to light the dedication and hard work that goes into this noble profession.”
Echoing this sentiment, Prof. Arcangelo Gentile, president of WAB, pointed to the upcoming World Veterinary Day 2024 as an ideal occasion to celebrate and raise awareness about the vital work veterinarians do behind the scenes. “This day should serve as a reminder of the critical role veterinarians play, often behind closed doors, in ensuring the health and happiness of animals and, by extension, our society,” he remarked.
As we approach this significant day, it’s a call to action for everyone to acknowledge and celebrate the tireless efforts of veterinarians around the world. Their dedication not only ensures the well-being of animals but also supports the fabric of our communities. For more insights from the survey and to learn how you can support our veterinarians, visit the Boehringer Ingelheim website.
