Arabic version: أطباء البيطرة في أستراليا الجنوبية يواجهون إساءة من العملاء وساعات عمل طويلة، تقرير يكشف

A joint committee on the mental health of veterinarians in South Australia has made 32 recommendations to address poor wellbeing and suicidality in the industry. According to ABC News, the report highlights issues such as daily client abuse and unpaid labor as significant contributors to poor mental health among veterinarians.

Veterinarians, including Dr. Sophie Browne, report facing regular verbal abuse from clients who often misunderstand the costs associated with pet care. Dr. Browne, who leads an all-female veterinary team in Clare, South Australia, noted that clients frequently accuse veterinarians of prioritizing profit over animal welfare. This lack of understanding contributes to a hostile work environment, leaving many veterinarians feeling undervalued and disheartened.

The report follows the tragic suicide of Sophie Putland, a dedicated veterinarian whose death in 2021 prompted her family to establish a charity, Sophie’s Legacy, aimed at raising awareness about mental health in the profession. The inquiry into veterinarian wellbeing, initiated in November 2024, has uncovered alarming statistics about workload and remuneration, revealing that many veterinarians work over 50 hours a week while earning less than the average Australian wage.

Among the recommendations are measures to address the excessive responsibilities faced by regional veterinarians, including the care of stray and injured animals, which has become a public expectation despite being the responsibility of local governments. The committee also called for audits of the state’s capacity to manage potential animal disease outbreaks, emphasizing the crucial role regional vets play in biosecurity.

Health Minister Blair Boyer expressed surprise at the extent of client abuse reported in the industry and acknowledged the need for respect towards veterinarians. He indicated that the government would consider the committee’s recommendations in due course, stressing the importance of retaining skilled veterinary professionals to ensure the sustainability of veterinary services in the region.