This year as part of the State of ER and Specialty Veterinary Care in 2024 report, we asked survey participants an open-ended question to identify the support and resources veterinary staff believe are the most crucial for enhancing morale and mental well-being.

From better pay and benefits to stronger mental health programs and engaging team activities, the feedback captured in responses highlights a clear desire for workplaces that support both professional growth and personal health.

Below, we've synthesized responses into core themes that reflect the top concerns and suggestions from survey participants.

#1 Improved Compensation & Benefits

40% of respondents emphasized the need for increased wages or improved employee benefits to reflect the demanding nature of their work. As one respondent noted, highlighting the financial strain veterinary professionals experience, “We have food insecure employees—pay them more! That will enhance team morale and mental well-being.”

Suggestions for employee benefits included better medical insurance that incorporates mental health support, more PTO and sick time, and paid mental health days. 

#2 Mental Health & Wellness Programs

35% of responses mentioned therapy or enhanced wellness programs. 

Access to Therapy: Therapy and counseling services were a recurring theme. Respondents suggested free therapy, veterinary-specific counseling, and having an on-site social worker or grief counselor for both staff and clients to help relieve some of the emotional burden on employees.

Wellness Initiatives: Many respondents called for mandatory health and wellness programs, relaxation rooms, and mental health awareness programs. One respondent recommended “implementing standards for client behavior when relating to employees.”

#3 Team Building & Social Activities

A quarter (25%) of respondents expressed the need for more team-building activities inside and/or outside of work to strengthen team connections and morale.

Activities such as in-office chair massages, social events, and workshops were seen as beneficial for building a supportive work environment. 

#4 Work-Life Balance

Flexible Scheduling: Respondents highlighted the importance of job flexibility, reduced overtime, and rotating shifts to prevent burnout. 

Adequate Staffing: Respondents were emphatic about hiring more veterinarians and technicians to distribute the workload evenly and avoid burnout. “Hiring more technicians/support staff would solve many of the problems,” stated one respondent. Another response emphasized, “We need another vet so we can have time to be present for the staff and still have a life.”

Nearly one-third of respondents (31%) mentioned staffing or more flexible schedules. 

#5 Management & Administrative Support

A significant 45% of respondents emphasized the importance of top-down improvements in leadership and administrative support.
 
Effective Leadership: Better communication, transparency, and support from management were frequently mentioned. Respondents called for administrative staff with leadership skills and a more compassionate approach. One respondent expressed, “Owners and management need to re-develop some sense of compassion. Too much focus on the bottom line and not enough on people’s lives and mental health.”

Feedback Mechanisms: Respondents suggested implementing systems for employees to provide feedback and see impactful change based on that feedback. 

In The State of ER and Specialty Veterinary Care in 2024 report, we also explore what hospitals can do to support mental well-being, retain a top-tier veterinary team, and become truly state-of-the-art. 

You can read and toggle through our interactive analysis for more details insights: download the report here.