Caring for Those Who Care for Animals: Supporting Mental Health in the Veterinary Profession

The impact of pets on our mental and physical health goes beyond anecdotal evidence, it’s scientific. In this episode Jamie Brannan is joined by Dr. Marie Jose Ender Slegers, the president of the International Association of Human-Animal Interaction Organizations. Dr. Enders-Slegers' profound immersion into the realm of human-animal bond research commenced later in life. She embarked on her academic journey in clinical psychology at the age of 40, and concurrently co-founded an animal shelter, where she bore witness to the deep, often heart-wrenching connections between individuals and their beloved animals. Through her tireless efforts, she has not only elevated the significance of the human-animal bond to a recognized topic for university research but has also played an instrumental role in advocating for the welfare of both humans and animals. Dr. Enders-Slegers work has also brought attention to the distressing connection between animal abuse and domestic violence and the need to educate veterinary professionals about this link. Her comprehensive approach underscores the imperative need for interdisciplinary collaboration and heightened awareness in this complex and emotive field.Episode Highlights00:00:00 - Introduction  the Human Animal Bond00:01:48 - The Journey to Studying the Human Animal Bond00:05:08 - The Key Components and Positive Effects of the Human Animal Bond00:09:33 - Challenges and Solutions in Preserving the Human Animal Bond00:16:10 - Link Between Animal Abuse and Domestic Violence00:19:31 - The Role of Vets in the Community00:21:33 - Importance of Collaboration00:22:26 - Incorporating Human-Animal Bond in Policies00:23:31 - Research and Protocols00:25:39 - Collaboration for a Better World

Caring for animals can be highly rewarding for many veterinary professionals, but operating in high-pressure and emotionally taxing environments can significantly impact their well-being. At Zoetis, we recognize their invaluable roles caring for the animals we need and love. With a grant from the Zoetis Foundation, the Shanti Project Veterinary Mental Health Initiative (VMHI) is helping to increase access to mental wellness programming for veterinary professions. In honor of World Mental Health Day, Zoetis EVP and Group President, International Operations, Aquaculture and Global Diagnostics, Jamie Brannan, sits down with Dr. Katie Lawler, co-founder of the VMHI, and Dr. Scarlett Magda, founder and president of Veterinarians International, to discuss some of the challenges and opportunities of supporting mental health in the veterinary community.For more information on The Shanti Project visit https://www.shanti.org/ 

From mental health professionals to horse enthusiasts, many have long known the incredibly powerful bond between humans and horses. Join Jen Grant, Jessica Normand, and Lynn Thomas to learn about their groundbreaking campaign that sheds light on the powerful healing potential of horses in mental health treatment and personal growth.Their conversation with Jamie focuses on:Uncovering the positive effects of horse-based services on mental health recovery.Gaining insight into how equine-assisted services can help individuals facing mental health challenges.The necessity of maintaining high welfare standards for horses involved in mental health programsThe importance of evidence-based research for supporting the use of equine-assisted services in human healthHighlighting the value of cooperation, educating service providers, and promoting fair access to these services. 

In honor of World Mental Health Day, Jamie to sits down with Dr. Grant Blashki, the clinical medical lead at Beyond Blue, to discuss mental health issues that impact the veterinary profession. Vets do amazing work each day to keep our animals healthy, but they also face heavy burdens – and even the most resilient people need support sometimes. For years, Zoetis has partnered with Beyond Blue to support mental health challenges faced by people living in rural Australia. Tune in to learn about the impact of Beyond Blue’s work and how we can continue supporting each other’s wellbeing.

Jamie is joined by Michelle Quint, Head of Business Analytics and Market Research for Zoetis International Operations, and Leo Tiernan, a performance and wellbeing coach. The trio discuss the six-part workshop that Michelle has put in place for her team at Zoetis and offer some tips on dealing with stress at work.

Jamie sits down with Mike McFarland to kick off season 2 of Wellness. They discuss the latest HABRI global study on the Human Animal Bond and the important role that pets can play in your personal wellness. Mike also provides some tips for new pet owners.