Being a veterinarian is one of the most rewarding careers out there. Every day, you get to help animals, support their owners, and make a real difference. But let’s be honest – while it’s a job that can be incredibly rewarding – it’s also one that comes with its fair share of pressure.
Long hours, emotional strain, and a never-ending to-do list can take their toll. That’s why work-life balance isn’t just a nice-to-have—it’s essential to having a long and successful veterinary career. In fact, the most common reason for leaving the veterinary industry was ‘poor work-life balance’ with 60% of veterinarians quitting the industry citing this as the main reason.
Whether you’re early in your career or decades into an established veterinary role, maintaining a healthy work-life balance is key to staying healthy, happy, and passionate about the job you love. Below we give our top tips for finding the right work-life balance in your veterinary career:
The Current State of Work-Life Balance in Veterinary Medicine
There’s no doubt that veterinary medicine is a tough profession. According to a recent study, over 50% of veterinarians reported signs of burnout in the workplace. Many vets report feeling overworked, underappreciated, and emotionally drained. The COVID-19 pandemic only made things worse, with increased demand for pet care and staffing shortages pushing many to their limits.
And it’s not just about the hours. The emotional toll of the job—compassion fatigue, ethical dilemmas, and the heartbreak of putting animals down—can weigh heavily on even the most resilient veterinarians. Studies published in the Journal of the American Veterinary Medical Association (JAVMA) highlight the mental health challenges veterinarians face, from anxiety and depression to higher rates of suicide compared to the general population.
It’s clear: something needs to change.
Why Work-Life Balance Matters
Work-life balance means being able to enjoy your life outside of the clinic—spending time with loved ones, resting properly, or simply switching off at the end of a busy day. Without that balance, stress and burnout can creep in, often without us even noticing. Here are a few benefits to having a more positive work-life balance:
- Better Physical and Mental Health: When you’re constantly running on empty, your health pays the price. Chronic stress can lead to burnout, anxiety, and even physical illness. On the flip side, a balanced lifestyle helps you recharge, stay healthy, and bring your best self to work.
- Improved Patient Care: When you’re exhausted, it’s undoubtedly harder to focus. Studies show that overworked veterinarians are more likely to make mistakes. By prioritising balance, you’re not just helping yourself—you’re ensuring the best possible care for your patients.
- Staying in the Profession You Love: Many veterinarians leave the field because of burnout. By finding balance, you can protect your passion for the work and build a sustainable, fulfilling career.
Strategies for Achieving A Healthier Work-Life Balance
So, how can vets create a more harmonious relationship between their work and private life? Here are some practical tips:
- Set Boundaries: Learn to say no to overtime and prioritise your personal time. It’s okay to put yourself first sometimes.
- Prioritise rest: Take breaks during the day, such as a daily walk, and make sure you’re getting enough downtime outside of work.
- Explore Flexible Work Arrangements: Part-time work, job sharing, or even remote consulting can give you more control over your schedule.
- Seek Mental Health Support: Don’t be afraid to ask for help. Therapy, support groups, and resources. Vet mind Matters have a useful list of resources on their website for veterinarians to support emotional wellbeing.
The Role of Veterinary Practices
Of course, it’s not just on individuals to make change happen. Employers and practice leaders play a huge part too. Creating fair rotas, offering mental health support, and encouraging a healthy work culture all make a big difference.
The BVA has even published guidelines on what makes a “Good Veterinary Workplace”, including flexibility, well-being support, and open communication. When teams feel supported, everyone benefits—staff, patients, and clients alike.
Locum Vet Work = Greater Flexibility
One way some veterinarians find more freedom and control is by stepping into locum work. As a locum vet, you get to choose when and where you work. That flexibility means you can take proper breaks between contracts, avoid burnout, and build a routine that actually suits your life.
For many, it’s a breath of fresh air. You still get to do the clinical work you love, but without being tied into a rigid rota or constant on-call duties.
Locum work also opens up new opportunities for traveling with your veterinary job, with many countries having a shortage of veterinarians.
The Benefits:
- Flexibility: Want to work three days a week? Or take a month off to travel? Locum work lets you design a schedule that works for you.
- Variety: Experience different practice environments without the long-term commitment.
- Fewer Administrative Burdens: No more worrying about practice management—just focus on the medicine.
The Challenges:
Of course, locum work isn’t perfect. You might miss the stability of a full-time role, and benefits like health insurance or retirement plans can be harder to come by. But for many vets, the trade-off is worth it.
Real-Life Stories: Finding Balance
At The Vet Service, we are global veterinary recruitment specialists that have helped several veterinarians achieve greater work-life balance, below are a few examples of people we’ve helped:
Sarah is a veterinarian who switched from a permanent role to locum work in London after years of burnout. “I was working 60-hour weeks and barely had time for my family,” she says. “Now, I work three days a week and spend the rest of my time hiking with my dog. I feel like myself again.”
James used locum work to travel the USA while practicing medicine after leaving his permanent role in New Hampshire. “I’ve worked in clinics from Maine to California,” he says. “It’s been an incredible way to see new places and meet new people—all while doing what I love.”
Prioritise your Wellbeing By Finding your Ideal Work-Life Balance
Work-life balance is essential for veterinarians who want to stay healthy, happy, and passionate about their work.
By prioritising balance, you’re not just helping yourself—you’re ensuring the best possible care for your patients and a long, fulfilling career in the profession you love.
If you are struggling with your work-life balance and are considering a change in role, contact The Vet Service today.
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We have a range of roles including locum veterinary positions and global opportunities in countries such as the USA, Canada, the UK, Australia and New Zealand.
