Not One More Vet

The last year has been a hard one and taken a toll on many people - the grief, the isolation, the economic uncertainty.  It's been especially hard for people who are already vulnerable - and in the animal care community, veterinarians are among the most vulnerable.  They're under constant pressure (both from themselves and from clients) and are constantly in the company of death and sadness.  It's a major part of the reason that I wanted to be a keeper instead of a vet - wanting to spend most of my time with animals that weren't suffering... well, that any really not wanting to take a second semester of organic chemistry,

As a result, the veterinary community has been plagued by suicides.  Several vets have ended their lives in the last few days.  To try and help, the following statement has been issued by the nonprofit "Not One More Vet", which I've decided to share here.  If you find yourself having to take a pet to the vet, please remember that, like many people, they are stretched thin and doing their best right now, for you family and for all of the others coming in to their practice.  Please be patient and be kind.  Everyone is doing their best right now.

"Dear Friends: If you are linked to a person on social media who works in veterinary medicine you may have noticed them changing their profile picture to include "NOMV" with the Rod of Asclepius. Some of you may know, but if you don't, NOMV stands for Not One More Vet. Because we have one of the highest suicide rates of any profession. When you see your friend or social media acquaintance change their profile, it's usually because they have learned of another colleague that succumbed to suicide. Be kind to your veterinary staff. From the front desk staff, technicians, kennel attendants and doctors. We are literally dying trying to help you.

#notonemorevet #NOMV

- Dr. Jeanne Thompson"