Veterinary work is rewarding — but it’s also demanding. Long hours, emotional cases, rota pressures, and client expectations all take their toll. It’s no surprise that many vets and nurses report feeling burnt out at some point in their careers.
At Vetmatch, we regularly hear from candidates who aren’t leaving their jobs because of pay — but because of exhaustion, lack of support, and the feeling that they’re not appreciated. Recognising the early signs of burnout is essential, and taking steps to protect yourself can make all the difference.
What Burnout Looks Like in Veterinary Practice
Burnout isn’t just “feeling tired.” It can show up in different ways:
Constant exhaustion – no matter how much you sleep.
Emotional detachment – feeling numb with clients or colleagues.
Reduced performance – finding it hard to concentrate or keep up.
Loss of motivation – dreading going into work, even for tasks you once enjoyed.
Physical symptoms – headaches, stomach issues, or frequent illness.
Why It Happens
Long or unpredictable rotas – nights, weekends, and short-staffed shifts.
Emotional strain – difficult cases, euthanasia, or client conflict.
Understaffing – covering too much, with too few people.
Lack of support – little recognition, poor management, or no chance to progress.
Steps to Protect Yourself
Set Boundaries : Learn to say no when workloads become unsustainable. Protecting your personal time isn’t selfish — it’s essential.
Prioritise Self-Care : Exercise, sleep, healthy eating, and downtime make a real difference to resilience. Even small changes help.
Talk About It : Don’t suffer in silence. Share your feelings with a colleague, manager, or a trusted friend. Sometimes just talking lightens the load.
Seek Professional Support : Organisations like Vetlife and the RCVS Mind Matters Initiative offer confidential support for anyone in the profession who is struggling.
Find a Mentor : Having a formal or informal mentor can give you a safe space to discuss challenges, explore solutions, and gain perspective.
Consider Your Role : Sometimes, burnout is a sign it’s time for change. A different rota, a new environment, or a practice with stronger support systems can reignite your passion.
How Vetmatch Can Help
You might be pleasantly surprised at your worth as your career develops. Many candidates who come to us find they can improve their overall package — not just salary, but rota, support, and career progression — while also stepping into a role that reignites their enthusiasm.
At Vetmatch, we’ll listen to what’s not working and help you find a role that matches your values, goals, and lifestyle.
Final Thought
Burnout is real, but it’s not the end of your career. With awareness, support, and sometimes a change of scene, you can rediscover the joy that drew you to veterinary work in the first place.