Purina Pro Plan Veterinary and Veterinary Hope Foundation Unite to Address Veterinarians' Mental Health Needs

Addressing Mental Health Needs in the Veterinary Profession

Veterinary professionals are often tasked with substantial emotional responsibilities, tending to the health of both pets and their owners. Recognizing the necessity for mental health support, Purina Pro Plan Veterinary has partnered with the Veterinary Hope Foundation. This collaboration aims to provide structured mental health resources and expand community support for veterinarians across the United States, aligning with the Pro Plan Veterinary Support Mission.

The Emotional Burden of Veterinary Care

The veterinary profession has witnessed progressive changes in its approach to mental health; however, substantial challenges remain. A study revealed that a staggering 92% of veterinarians currently battle fatigue, while only 30% report having effective coping strategies for managing stress. Furthermore, 60% expressed a desire for resources focused on stress reduction and self-care, highlighting a critical gap in mental health support tailored specifically for their field.

Vet Hope, established by veterinarians dedicated to mental health advocacy, recognizes this gap and aims to fill it with necessary emotional and psychological support through community groups and educational programming. The partnership with Pro Plan Veterinary will accelerate access to these resources, providing veterinary professionals with structured community groups and quarterly webinars. The online programs offered cover a breadth of pertinent topics such as genuine self-care, mindfulness, resilience, and establishing healthy boundaries and work-life balance.

A Shared Commitment to Wellness

"This collaboration underscores our joint dedication to offering resources vital for improving the mental health and overall well-being of veterinarians," stated Blair McConnel, DVM and president of Vet Hope's board. The unification of the Veterinary Hope Foundation and the Pro Plan Veterinary Support Mission ensures that participants can share their experiences, fostering a supportive environment where no veterinarian feels isolated in facing their struggles.

The Pro Plan Veterinary Support Mission, which was launched in 2024, seeks to remove obstacles that veterinarians, from practice managers to veterinary technicians, encounter daily. It represents an ongoing commitment to not only the professional but also the personal needs of those working in veterinary care. "Acknowledging the mental health challenges posed by high stress and long working hours, it was imperative to create tangible avenues for veterinarians to access help," expressed Dr. Callie Harris, DVM at Pro Plan Veterinary.

Championing Mental Health in Veterinary Practices

The collaboration between Pro Plan Veterinary and Vet Hope acts as a catalyst for cultural change within veterinary practices, with a vision to prioritize mental health and well-being. The mission aims to provide accessible resources without stigma, thus integrating mental health support into the daily lives of veterinary professionals.

Since its inception, the Pro Plan Veterinary Support Mission has directed over $3.5 million towards various initiatives addressing challenges within the veterinary sector. This encompasses mental health support for exhaustion and burnout, as well as financial aid for clients unable to afford critical care through programs like the AVMF REACH Program™ and Paisley Paws.

As the partnership between Purina Pro Plan Veterinary and Veterinary Hope Foundation progresses, it strives to cultivate an environment where emotional well-being is seen as essential, empowering veterinary professionals with the tools they need to thrive.

For further insights into the Pro Plan Veterinary Support Mission and the resources offered by Vet Hope, interested parties can visit ProPlanVetSupport.com and veterinaryhope.org.

About Purina Pro Plan Veterinary

Purina Pro Plan Veterinary Diets, created by Nestlé Purina PetCare, stands at the forefront of pet care, delivering scientifically grounded nutritional innovations to enhance the lives of pets and their owners. With a commitment to superior quality and nutrition, Purina continues to produce some of the world's most renowned pet care products, supporting millions of pets annually. Moreover, the expertise of over 500 veterinarians, scientists, and pet care specialists ensures an unwavering dedication to excellence in the industry.

About Veterinary Hope Foundation

Veterinary Hope Foundation (Vet Hope) is dedicated to the mental health and emotional well-being of veterinary professionals. With a focus on community initiatives, educational resources, and research, Vet Hope provides essential support and connections for veterinary teams, affirming the foundation's commitment to the welfare of those who dedicate their lives to the care of animals.