Working in the veterinary profession is incredibly rewarding, but it’s no secret that it comes with its challenges. Long hours, emotional cases, and the pressure of balancing patient care with client expectations can all take their toll.

Burnout is a serious issue in the industry, but the good news is that there are ways to manage stress and protect your well-being. If you’re feeling overwhelmed, here are some practical tips to help you regain balance and avoid burnout.

1. Recognise the Signs Early

Burnout doesn’t happen overnight—it builds up over time. Learning to recognise the early warning signs can help you take action before it becomes overwhelming. 

🚩 Signs of burnout include:

• Constant exhaustion (even after a full night’s sleep)

• Feeling detached or emotionally drained

• Increased irritability or frustration at work

• Loss of motivation and enjoyment in your job

• Physical symptoms like headaches, stomach aches, or frequent illnesses

If any of these sound familiar, it’s time to take a step back and focus on your well-being.

2. Set Boundaries & Protect Your Time

One of the biggest contributors to burnout is the feeling that work never ends. Setting boundaries is essential to maintaining a sustainable career.

💡 Ways to set boundaries:
✔ Leave work on time when possible – Of course, emergencies happen, but consistently staying late shouldn’t be the norm.
✔ Turn off work notifications on your days off – Giving yourself a true break is essential for recharging.
✔ Say no when needed – It’s okay to decline extra shifts or responsibilities if they are stretching you too thin.

Your time outside of work is just as valuable as your time in it—prioritise it!

3. Prioritise Self-Care (Without Feeling Guilty!)

Caring for others is at the heart of the veterinary profession, but you can’t pour from an empty cup. Taking time for yourself isn’t selfish—it’s necessary.

🧘 Simple self-care ideas:

• Take regular breaks, even if it’s just five minutes to breathe and reset.

• Make time for hobbies that bring you joy.

• Spend time with family, friends, and pets—connection is key to well-being.

• Get outside when you can—fresh air and movement do wonders for stress levels.

Think of self-care as maintenance, not a luxury. A well-rested, happy vet or vet nurse provides better care than an exhausted one.

4. Talk About It – You’re Not Alone

Burnout can feel isolating, but you’re not the only one experiencing it. Talking to colleagues, friends, or professionals about how you’re feeling can be incredibly helpful. 

💬 Where to find support:

• Trusted colleagues who understand the challenges of the job

• Mentors who can provide guidance and reassurance

• Mental health professionals, if stress is becoming unmanageable

• Support services like Vetlife (UK), which offer confidential help to veterinary professionals

Asking for help is a strength, not a weakness. There’s no shame in seeking support when you need it.

5. Consider Flexible Working Options

If your current schedule is unsustainable, explore flexible working options. More practices are now recognising the importance of work-life balance and offering alternatives to traditional full-time roles.

📅 Flexible options to consider:

• Part-time or reduced hours

• Job sharing with another vet or nurse

• Locum work for greater control over your schedule

• Remote or telemedicine roles

If your current job doesn’t allow for a healthy balance, it may be worth looking for a practice that prioritises staff well-being.

6.Finding the Right Workplace Culture

Not all practices are the same. Some genuinely prioritise work-life balance, while others may expect constant overworking. If your current role isn’t providing the balance you need, it might be worth exploring other opportunities.

Look for practices that:
✔ Offer flexible working arrangements
✔ Have a supportive team culture
✔ Respect time off and set realistic workloads
✔ Provide mental health support and resources

Your happiness at work has a huge impact on your overall well-being—so make sure you’re in an environment that aligns with your values and needs.

7. Reconnect with Why You Started

Burnout can make you forget why you fell in love with veterinary medicine in the first place. Finding ways to reignite your passion can help combat stress.

💖 Ways to reconnect with your passion:

• Reflect on the cases that made a real difference.

• Take on CPD that excites you and aligns with your interests.

• Spend time with animals outside of work—remind yourself why you love them!

• Celebrate the wins, no matter how small. Every patient helped is a success.

Veterinary work is tough, but it’s also one of the most meaningful careers out there. Don’t lose sight of that.

Final Thoughts

Burnout is a real challenge in the veterinary profession, but it doesn’t have to define your career. By recognising the signs early, setting boundaries, prioritising self-care, and seeking support, you can build a long and fulfilling career while still looking after yourself.

💬 What’s your go-to strategy for managing stress in the veterinary field? Let us know in the comments!