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von Rentzell KA, Bratiotis C, Protopopova A. "It's my calling", Canadian dog rescuers' motives and experiences for engaging in international dog rescue efforts. PLoS One 2024; 19:e0300104. [PMID: 38820400 PMCID: PMC11142615 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0300104] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/12/2023] [Accepted: 02/21/2024] [Indexed: 06/02/2024] Open
Abstract
The importation of rescue dogs has become an increasingly common occurrence in recent years, often involving industrialized countries as the ultimate destination. However, international dog rescue activities have attracted considerable criticism from the veterinary community and the public due to the associated zoonotic disease and public health risks, as well as the potential poor behaviour of international rescue dogs. The Government of Canada has also recently placed a temporary suspension on all commercial dog imports from non-rabies free countries due to the growing concerns of the zoonotic disease risks. To understand the perspectives and experiences of stakeholders involved in dog import activities in Canada, we interviewed nine members in leadership positions of Canadian-based international dog rescue organizations. Thematic analysis of interview dialogue yielded three themes: 1) Motive, which described the reason behind participants' involvement in international dog rescue; 2) Challenge, which described the major difficulties faced in participants' dog rescue work; 3) Duty, which described participants' beliefs on responsible dog rescue practices. Members of international dog rescue organizations described being driven by strong desires to provide animal and humanitarian aid. However, local dog rescue efforts were constrained by logistical and societal barriers unique to the Canadian context. Additionally, the current study revealed both similarities and differences in occupational experiences between international dog rescue organizations and other animal care professions. Specifically, difficulties with the emotional burden associated with caregiving professions was also present within dog rescue work. However, international dog rescue members also experienced additional challenges due to the stigma surrounding international dog rescue operations. Further research on attitudes held by other stakeholders involved in dog import activities, as well as members of Canadian communities needing dog rescue aid may provide meaningful inputs on how to better support and facilitate local and international dog rescue efforts.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kai Alain von Rentzell
- The Animal Welfare Program, Faculty of Land and Food Systems, University of British Columbia, British Columbia, Vancouver, Canada
| | - Christiana Bratiotis
- School of Social Work, University of British Columbia, British Columbia, Vancouver, Canada
| | - Alexandra Protopopova
- The Animal Welfare Program, Faculty of Land and Food Systems, University of British Columbia, British Columbia, Vancouver, Canada
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Duncan AJ, Henry MK, Lamont K. Combining sentiment analysis and text mining with content analysis of farm vet interviews on mental wellbeing in livestock practice. PLoS One 2024; 19:e0304090. [PMID: 38776300 PMCID: PMC11111023 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0304090] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/05/2023] [Accepted: 05/06/2024] [Indexed: 05/24/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND The aim of the How Farm Vets Cope project was to co-design, with farm veterinary surgeons, a set of web-based resources to help them and others deal with the different situations that they can face. As part of the wider project, participants were recruited for one-to-one semi-structured phone interviews. These interviews focused on elements of job satisfaction and how the participants coped during periods of poor mental wellbeing or with setbacks and failure. METHODS Transcripts of these interviews were analysed using both quantitative methods of sentiment analysis and text mining, including term frequency/inverse document frequency and rapid automated keyword extraction, and qualitative content analysis. The twin aims of the analysis were identifying the important themes discussed by the participants and comparing the results of the two methods to see what differences, if any, arose. RESULTS Analysis using the afinn and nrc sentiment lexicons identified emotional themes of anticipation and trust. Rapid automated keyword extraction highlighted issues around age of vets and support, whilst using term frequency/inverse document frequency allowed for individual themes, such as religion, not present across all responses, to be identified. Content analysis supported these findings, pinpointing examples of trust around relationships with farmers and more experienced vets, along with some examples of the difference good support networks can make, particularly to younger vets. FINDINGS This work has confirmed previous results in identifying the themes of trust, communication and support to be integral to the experience of practicing farm veterinary surgeons. Younger or less experienced vets recognised themselves as benefiting from further support and signposting, leading to a discussion around the preparation of veterinary students for entry into a farm animal vet practice. The two different approaches taken showed very good agreement in their results. The quantitative approaches can be scaled to allow a larger number of interviews to be utilised in studies whilst still allowing the important qualitative results to be identified.
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Affiliation(s)
- Andrew J. Duncan
- Northern Faculty, Department of Veterinary and Animal Science, Centre for Epidemiology and Planetary Health, Scotland’s Rural College (SRUC), Inverness, United Kingdom
- UHI Inverness, University of the Highlands and Islands, 1 Inverness Campus, Inverness, United Kingdom
| | - Madeleine K. Henry
- Northern Faculty, Department of Veterinary and Animal Science, Centre for Epidemiology and Planetary Health, Scotland’s Rural College (SRUC), Inverness, United Kingdom
| | - Kate Lamont
- Northern Faculty, Department of Veterinary and Animal Science, Centre for Epidemiology and Planetary Health, Scotland’s Rural College (SRUC), Inverness, United Kingdom
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King N, Lewis EG, Kinnison T, Langridge A, Civai C, May SA, Cardwell JM. Mental health of veterinary nurses and student veterinary nurses: A scoping review. Vet Rec 2024; 194:e4091. [PMID: 38622978 DOI: 10.1002/vetr.4091] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/13/2023] [Accepted: 03/22/2024] [Indexed: 04/17/2024]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Research has shown that veterinarians around the world are at high risk of mental health problems, but far less research has examined the mental health of veterinary nurses (VNs) and student veterinary nurses (SVNs). This scoping review aimed to map existing evidence on this topic and identify knowledge gaps. METHODS Literature searches of MEDLINE, PsycINFO, PubMed, Web of Science and Google Scholar were conducted, and a structured screening and selection procedure was applied. To be included, studies had to be peer reviewed, report relevant results specific to VNs and/or SVNs, and provide descriptive statistics if using quantitative methods. RESULTS Of the 2118 publications identified, only 13 journal articles met the inclusion criteria. The findings were summarised in five categories: mental health and wellbeing, burnout, stress, compassion fatigue and moral distress. While the findings of five of the studies suggested that some VNs and SVNs experienced some form of poor mental health, these studies lacked generalisability or transferability for multiple reasons. There was also inconsistency and ambiguity in the interpretation of findings, as well as incompatible or oversimplified definitions of mental health problems. LIMITATIONS Our review excluded grey literature, such as reports, theses and conference presentations, as a preliminary search found very little empirical research on VNs' and SVNs' mental health in this type of publication. CONCLUSIONS More research is needed to address the gaps in the existing evidence supporting our understanding of VN and SVN mental health. This should establish baseline measures and include comparisons with other occupational and national populations.
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Affiliation(s)
- Naomi King
- Department of Pathobiology and Population Sciences, Royal Veterinary College, Hatfield, UK
| | - Elisa G Lewis
- Division of Psychology, School of Applied Sciences, London South Bank University, London, UK
| | - Tierney Kinnison
- Department of Clinical Science and Services, Royal Veterinary College, Hatfield, UK
| | - Alison Langridge
- The College of Animal Welfare & CAW Business School, Godmanchester, UK
| | - Claudia Civai
- Division of Psychology, School of Applied Sciences, London South Bank University, London, UK
| | - Stephen Anthony May
- Department of Clinical Science and Services, Royal Veterinary College, Hatfield, UK
| | - Jacqueline M Cardwell
- Department of Pathobiology and Population Sciences, Royal Veterinary College, Hatfield, UK
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Li K, Mooney E, McArthur M, Hall E, Quain A. A comparison between veterinary small animal general practitioners and emergency practitioners in Australia. Part 1: demographic and work-related factors. Front Vet Sci 2024; 11:1355505. [PMID: 38577547 PMCID: PMC10993158 DOI: 10.3389/fvets.2024.1355505] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/14/2023] [Accepted: 03/11/2024] [Indexed: 04/06/2024] Open
Abstract
Occupational stressors are commonly encountered in small animal veterinary practice and have been associated with burnout. The working context of veterinarians differs by specialty, and this can potentially lead to variable exposures to risk factors for burnout. The aim of this study was to explore differences in demographic and working conditions of veterinary general practitioners (GPs) and emergency practitioners (EPs) to compare exposure to different potential stressors. An anonymous, online survey was administered to veterinary GPs and EPs practicing in metropolitan regions of Australia. In total, 320 participant responses were analyzed (n = 237, 74.2% GPs and n = 83, 25.9% EPs). Significant differences (P < 0.05) in the demographics and work-related exposures were found between the two groups. GPs were found to be older than EPs with a greater number of years of experience in their field (P < 0.001). Most veterinary GPs worked only day shifts (207/236, 87.7%); where EPs worked a greater variety of shift patterns, with "only day shifts" being the least common shift pattern (P < 0.001). Most GPs worked a set and predictable roster pattern (195/236, 83.6%), while most EPs did not (51/83, 61.5%). EPs worked more weekends and public holidays (P < 0.001). The EP group performed more hours of work each week but worked less overtime. The main contributing factors for overtime were scheduling factors for GPs and staffing issues for EPs. EPs were commonly not able to take meal-breaks and GPs' meal-breaks were commonly interrupted by work. EPs were more frequently exposed to patient death, euthanasia (including for financial reasons), emotionally distressed clients and delivering negative news (P < 0.001). Both groups indicated that most work environments were collegiate and supportive, and a minority reported toxic colleagues (11.8%) or management teams (26.9%). Just under one-half of respondents reported having witnessed or experienced workplace bullying. Of our respondent group, 52.0% (166/319) were not satisfied with their remuneration. Desire to leave their principal area of practice was prevalent among this survey group (192/319, 60.2%) with approximately one-third considering leaving the veterinary profession. We discuss the implications of these workplace factors, including mitigation strategies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kun Li
- Sydney School of Veterinary Science, Faculty of Science, The University of Sydney, Camperdown, NSW, Australia
| | - Erin Mooney
- Sydney School of Veterinary Science, Faculty of Science, The University of Sydney, Camperdown, NSW, Australia
| | - Michelle McArthur
- School of Animal and Veterinary Science, Faculty of Sciences, Engineering and Technology, University of Adelaide, Adelaide, SA, Australia
| | - Evelyn Hall
- Sydney School of Veterinary Science, Faculty of Science, The University of Sydney, Camperdown, NSW, Australia
| | - Anne Quain
- Sydney School of Veterinary Science, Faculty of Science, The University of Sydney, Camperdown, NSW, Australia
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Thielmann B, Pohl R, Böckelmann I. Physical stress and musculoskeletal complaints of veterinarians - A narrative review. APPLIED ERGONOMICS 2024; 115:104180. [PMID: 38008038 DOI: 10.1016/j.apergo.2023.104180] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/13/2023] [Revised: 11/02/2023] [Accepted: 11/12/2023] [Indexed: 11/28/2023]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Veterinarians have high physical workloads. The aim of this narrative review is to evaluate the literature on typical physical workloads, such as lifting/carrying and forced position (during surgery) and predictors of injuries. The health complaints of veterinarians were also examined. METHODS Diverse databases were used. Prevalence rates of total workloads (also including surgery), health complaints, musculoskeletal discomfort, and predictors of injury, musculoskeletal disorders, and precaution awareness were examined. RESULTS Thirteen studies were included. The most prevalent injury was animal attacks (9%-84%). Working in large and mixed practice types were predictors of injuries or musculoskeletal disorders (e.g., shoulder, lower back, head/neck) compared to other types of practice. CONCLUSION The study findings presented here clearly show a high need for intervention to minimize and prevent occupational risks. Ergonomic working conditions and occupational safety training can reduce the risk of musculoskeletal disorders.
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Affiliation(s)
- Beatrice Thielmann
- Institute of Occupational Medicine, Medical Faculty, Otto-von-Guericke-University, Leipziger Str. 44, (Building 20), 39120, Magdeburg, Germany.
| | - Robert Pohl
- Institute of Occupational Medicine, Medical Faculty, Otto-von-Guericke-University, Leipziger Str. 44, (Building 20), 39120, Magdeburg, Germany
| | - Irina Böckelmann
- Institute of Occupational Medicine, Medical Faculty, Otto-von-Guericke-University, Leipziger Str. 44, (Building 20), 39120, Magdeburg, Germany
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Lee JM, Lee GH, Kim K. Attending veterinarians improve the research capability and psychological well-being of researchers in animal research institutes. Front Vet Sci 2024; 10:1340225. [PMID: 38249556 PMCID: PMC10797093 DOI: 10.3389/fvets.2023.1340225] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/17/2023] [Accepted: 12/15/2023] [Indexed: 01/23/2024] Open
Abstract
The use of laboratory animals in biomedical research has significantly advanced scientific understanding, yet it raises ethical concerns about animal welfare and the mental health of researchers Recent research has highlighted the potential for stress and compassion fatigue among researchers working with distressed animals. Attending veterinarians (AVs) are crucial in mitigating the pain and stress experienced by animals and, by extension, researchers. However, the impact of AVs on researchers' psychological well-being remains understudied. This study explores how AVs contribute to researchers' research capability and psychological well-being in animal research institutions. AVs oversee animal housing, health, and welfare; their involvement is mandated or strongly recommended in developed countries. AVs enhance animal welfare by ensuring proper housing, nutrition, and social interaction. They monitor animal health, educate researchers on pain assessment, and promote compliance with post-surgical care. AVs also contribute to researchers' well-being by addressing euthanasia procedures, which can be emotionally challenging. Programs for rehoming animals after experiments offer an alternative to euthanasia and positively impact researchers' psychological well-being. Moreover, AVs promote workplace well-being by fostering positive workplace cultures, offering peer counseling, and providing social support. Programs considering animal welfare and researchers' emotions are crucial for a healthy research environment. In conclusion, AVs are essential in balancing scientific progress with animal welfare and researchers' psychological well-being. Therefore, their role should be recognized as vital in achieving social equity that considers the welfare of humans and laboratory animals.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ji Min Lee
- Research Ethics Team, Seoul National University, Seoul, Republic of Korea
| | - Gwang-Hoon Lee
- Preclinical Research Center, Daegu-Gyeongbuk Medical Innovation Foundation, Daegu, Republic of Korea
| | - KilSoo Kim
- Preclinical Research Center, Daegu-Gyeongbuk Medical Innovation Foundation, Daegu, Republic of Korea
- Department of Veterinary Toxicology, College of Veterinary Medicine, Kyungpook National University, Daegu, Republic of Korea
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Gonschor C, Pohl R, Woitha U, Thielmann B, Böckelmann I. Well-being of veterinarians in rural and urban areas. Front Vet Sci 2023; 10:1276229. [PMID: 38033633 PMCID: PMC10687188 DOI: 10.3389/fvets.2023.1276229] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/11/2023] [Accepted: 11/02/2023] [Indexed: 12/02/2023] Open
Abstract
Introduction The field of veterinary medicine is characterized by a variety of challenging working conditions. The alarmingly low mental well-being of veterinarians has been examined from various perspectives. However, the influence of work location on the well-being of veterinary professionals has scarcely been investigated. The aim of the study was therefore to analyze the well-being of German veterinarians and to determine whether there is a correlation between well-being and work location. Methods As part of a cross-sectional study, 999 veterinary professionals answered questions regarding their work location (self-designed questions) and well-being (WHO-Five Well-being Index, WHO-5). A differentiation was made according to work location: urban cities (population > 100,000), medium/small cities (population < 100,000 inhabitants), and rural areas. Results Overall, the surveyed veterinarians had low well-being (ranging from 56.8% in rural areas to 61.3% in medium/small towns). The results of the general linear model indicated a significant difference in the WHO total score among veterinarians from different work locations (p < 0.001). However, when sex, age, type of employment, and field of specialization were included in the analysis, no significant between-subject effects were found. Conclusion According to the results, work location does not seem to have a significant influence on the well-being of veterinarians and therefore may be of lower priority in the development and implementation of interventions. However, further investigation of work-related predictors of the mental health of veterinarians is recommended, as the results indicate a low well-being among these professionals.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Robert Pohl
- Department of Occupational Medicine, Medical Faculty, Otto-von-Guericke University Magdeburg, Magdeburg, Germany
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Humer E, Neubauer V, Brühl D, Dale R, Pieh C, Probst T. Prevalence of mental health symptoms and potential risk factors among Austrian veterinary medicine students. Sci Rep 2023; 13:13764. [PMID: 37612368 PMCID: PMC10447431 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-023-40885-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/30/2023] [Accepted: 08/17/2023] [Indexed: 08/25/2023] Open
Abstract
Although the poor mental health of veterinarians has been reported in different countries, no data exist on mental health in Austrian veterinary students. This study aimed to provide first data on a broad range of mental health indicators in Austrian veterinary students, compare these data with the Austrian general population, and explore factors associated with poor mental health. A total of 29.1% (n = 430; 85.8% female; mean age: 23.14 ± 3.69 years) of the total Austrian veterinary student population (N = 1477 students; 82.1% females) took part in an online survey conducted from November 2022 to January 2023. Indicators of mental health were symptoms of depression (PHQ-9), anxiety (GAD-7), insomnia (ISI-7), stress (PSS-4), alcohol abuse (CAGE) and disordered eating (SCOFF). Compared to the general Austrian population a higher proportion of veterinary students exceeded the cut-offs for clinically relevant mental health symptoms (P < 0.05). A total of 55.3% of participating veterinary students exceeded the cut-off for moderate depressive symptoms, 52.6% for moderate anxiety symptoms, 20.9% for clinically relevant insomnia symptoms, 79.3% for high-stress symptoms, 22.8% for symptoms of alcohol abuse and 38.6% for symptoms of disordered eating. Multivariable logistic regression including several sociodemographic, health behavior, and study-related variables as predictors revealed that mental health symptoms in veterinary students were associated with female gender, older age, low physical activity, high smartphone usage, and desired specification in small animal or wildlife medicine. In conclusion, Austrian veterinary students experience a high mental health burden. The teaching of coping skills and strategies to improve mental hygiene should be implemented in the curricula of veterinary education to improve mental health in the veterinary profession.
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Affiliation(s)
- Elke Humer
- Department for Psychosomatic Medicine and Psychotherapy, University for Continuing Education Krems, 3500, Krems, Austria.
- Faculty of Psychotherapy Science, Sigmund Freud University Vienna, 1020, Vienna, Austria.
| | - Viktoria Neubauer
- Unit for Food Microbiology, Institute of Food Safety, Food Technology, and Veterinary Public Health, Department for Farm Animals and Public Health, University of Veterinary Medicine Vienna, 1210, Vienna, Austria
- FFoQSI GmbH-Austrian Competence Centre for Feed and Food Quality, Safety and Innovation, 3430, Tulln, Austria
| | - Deianira Brühl
- Department for Psychosomatic Medicine and Psychotherapy, University for Continuing Education Krems, 3500, Krems, Austria
- Unit for Food Microbiology, Institute of Food Safety, Food Technology, and Veterinary Public Health, Department for Farm Animals and Public Health, University of Veterinary Medicine Vienna, 1210, Vienna, Austria
| | - Rachel Dale
- Department for Psychosomatic Medicine and Psychotherapy, University for Continuing Education Krems, 3500, Krems, Austria
| | - Christoph Pieh
- Department for Psychosomatic Medicine and Psychotherapy, University for Continuing Education Krems, 3500, Krems, Austria
| | - Thomas Probst
- Division of Psychotherapy, Department of Psychology, University of Salzburg, 5020, Salzburg, Austria
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Šterk K, Brložnik M. An anthropologist's voice in a veterinarian's noise: gearing up for new cultural realities. Front Vet Sci 2023; 10:1202606. [PMID: 37601748 PMCID: PMC10436338 DOI: 10.3389/fvets.2023.1202606] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/08/2023] [Accepted: 07/21/2023] [Indexed: 08/22/2023] Open
Abstract
Over the past three decades, the veterinary profession has faced a cultural shift towards postspeciesism that requires a reassessment of the foundations of the existing distinctions between human and non-human animals proclaimed by the speciesism paradigm, which represents institutionalized discrimination against species and recognizes only the subjectivity of humans. Based on ethnographic observations in anthropological fieldwork and using speciesism/postspeciesism distinction, we aimed to explain the main causes of small animal practitioners' work-related stress and apply humanistic knowledge to recommend ways to alleviate the negative effects of the work environment. The explanatory model of disease, illness, and sickness, the example of the concept of family, and the circumstances of the feminization of the veterinary profession are discussed to illustrate the divergence between speciesist naturalistic veterinary knowledge and the postspeciesist cultural framework and its consequences. By failing to accommodate the changing values towards animals and by failing to challenge the anthropocentric hierarchy of values, the speciesist rationale of the veterinary profession contributes to many of the problems faced by practicing veterinarians. The incorporation of a modern moral-philosophical mindset towards animals may not even be possible because veterinary science is subject to a paradigm that is irreversibly tied to institutional discrimination against species and defies reflection on veterinary science itself. However, the veterinary profession has a privileged position in establishing an alternative ontological thinking and an alternative conception of "animal life." Anthropological knowledge was applied to anticipate further intervention of social and cultural sciences in the problems of small animal practitioners. Rather than further diversifying and increasing expectations towards veterinarians by expecting them to acquire additional skills, we propose another practitioner who can support, mediate, and enhance veterinary performance - the cultural anthropologist. With their deep knowledge of cultural differences and social dynamics, they can collaborate with veterinarians to act as a liaison between cultures, paradigms, and species.
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Affiliation(s)
- Karmen Šterk
- Faculty of Social Sciences, University of Ljubljana, Ljubljana, Slovenia
| | - Maja Brložnik
- Veterinary Faculty, Small Animal Clinic, University of Ljubljana, Ljubljana, Slovenia
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Steffey MA, Griffon DJ, Risselada M, Scharf VF, Buote NJ, Zamprogno H, Winter AL. Veterinarian burnout demographics and organizational impacts: a narrative review. Front Vet Sci 2023; 10:1184526. [PMID: 37470072 PMCID: PMC10352684 DOI: 10.3389/fvets.2023.1184526] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/11/2023] [Accepted: 06/19/2023] [Indexed: 07/21/2023] Open
Abstract
Burnout is a work-related syndrome of physical and emotional exhaustion secondary to prolonged, unresolvable occupational stress. Individuals of different demographic cohorts may have disparate experiences of workplace stressors and burnout impacts. Healthcare organizations are adversely affected by burnt out workers through decreased productivity, low morale, suboptimal teamwork, and potential impacts on the quality of patient care. In this second of two companion reviews, the demographics of veterinary burnout and the impacts of burnout on affected individuals and work environments are summarized, before discussing mitigation concepts and their extrapolation for targeted strategies within the veterinary workplace and profession.
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Affiliation(s)
- Michele A. Steffey
- Department of Surgical and Radiological Sciences, School of Veterinary Medicine, University of California, Davis, Davis, CA, United States
| | - Dominique J. Griffon
- Western University of Health Sciences, College of Veterinary Medicine, Pomona, CA, United States
| | - Marije Risselada
- Department of Veterinary Clinical Sciences, College of Veterinary Medicine, Purdue University, West-Lafayette, IN, United States
| | - Valery F. Scharf
- Department of Clinical Sciences, North Carolina State University College of Veterinary Medicine, Raleigh, NC, United States
| | - Nicole J. Buote
- Department of Clinical Sciences, Cornell University College of Veterinary Medicine, Ithaca, NY, United States
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Steffey MA, Griffon DJ, Risselada M, Buote NJ, Scharf VF, Zamprogno H, Winter AL. A narrative review of the physiology and health effects of burnout associated with veterinarian-pertinent occupational stressors. Front Vet Sci 2023; 10:1184525. [PMID: 37465277 PMCID: PMC10351608 DOI: 10.3389/fvets.2023.1184525] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/11/2023] [Accepted: 06/19/2023] [Indexed: 07/20/2023] Open
Abstract
Chronic workplace stress and burnout are serious problems in veterinary medicine. Although not classified as a medical condition, burnout can affect sleep patterns and contributes to chronic low grade systemic inflammation, autonomic imbalance, hormonal imbalances and immunodeficiencies, thereby increasing the risks of physical and psychological ill health in affected individuals. Cultural misconceptions in the profession often lead to perceptions of burnout as a personal failure, ideas that healthcare professionals are somehow at lower risk for suffering, and beliefs that affected individuals can or should somehow heal themselves. However, these concepts are antiquated, harmful and incorrect, preventing the design of appropriate solutions for this serious and growing challenge to the veterinary profession. Veterinarians must first correctly identify the nature of the problem and understand its causes and impacts before rational solutions can be implemented. In this first part of two companion reviews, burnout will be defined, pathophysiology discussed, and healthcare and veterinary-relevant occupational stressors that lead to burnout identified.
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Affiliation(s)
- Michele A. Steffey
- Department of Surgical and Radiological Sciences, School of Veterinary Medicine, University of California, Davis, Davis, CA, United States
| | - Dominique J. Griffon
- Western University of Health Sciences, College of Veterinary Medicine, Pomona, CA, United States
| | - Marije Risselada
- Department of Veterinary Clinical Sciences, College of Veterinary Medicine, Purdue University, West-Lafayette, IN, United States
| | - Nicole J. Buote
- Department of Clinical Sciences, Cornell University College of Veterinary Medicine, Ithaca, NY, United States
| | - Valery F. Scharf
- Department of Clinical Sciences, North Carolina State University College of Veterinary Medicine, Raleigh, NC, United States
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12
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Feakes A, Lindsay N, Palmer E, Steffens P. Altruism or self-interest in tomorrow's veterinarians? A metric conjoint experiment and cluster analysis. Front Vet Sci 2023; 10:1044463. [PMID: 37089402 PMCID: PMC10113617 DOI: 10.3389/fvets.2023.1044463] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/14/2022] [Accepted: 03/16/2023] [Indexed: 04/25/2023] Open
Abstract
Introduction Altruism is considered a trait of veterinary and other health professionals, but the level of altruism in the veterinary profession is unknown. We designed a metric conjoint experiment to reveal other-orientation (an individual's caring concern for the wellbeing of others) and self-interest. We draw on the 'Theory of Other-Orientation', which states that individuals' decision-making heuristics can be impacted by their other-orientation independent of their self-interest. In patient-focused contexts, highly other-oriented or altruistic (veterinary) professionals may care too much for others and suffer immediate or cumulative financial and personal costs of such caring. At the same time, other-orientation can enhance job-related attitudes and outcomes, such as job satisfaction. Methods In a metric conjoint experiment, Australian final-year veterinary, science, nursing, entrepreneurship, and engineering students rated eight job scenarios with orthogonally arranged high and low levels of three job characteristics (n = 586) to provide observed measures of other-orientation and self-interest. Results A two-way MANOVA showed other-orientation or self-interest differed per discipline, but not gender. Veterinary (and engineering) respondents were less other-oriented than nursing respondents. Veterinary (and entrepreneurship) respondents were more self-interested than nursing respondents. K-Means cluster analysis confirmed four distinct profile groupings-altruistic/self-sacrificing, 'both other-self', self-interested and selfish-aligning with the discourse in the literature. Human nursing respondents stood out for the most members (50%) in the 'both other-self' profile compared to veterinary respondents (28%). Respondents of one of three veterinary schools stood out for the most members (19%) in the altruistic/self-sacrificing group. Discussion Our metric conjoint experiment illustrates an alternative to 'self-report' items with Likert-scaled responses. Our finding of the 'both other-self' group adds to the literature, which considers that other-orientation and self-interest are separate constructs that are difficult to co-exist in individuals. This mix of traits is deemed helpful by organizational psychology scholars, for sustainability and wellbeing, especially for healthcare professionals involved in high-frequency and intense, patient-focused interactions. Our findings highlight the need for more research on the potential role of other-orientation and self-interest in veterinary school admissions processes, the hidden or taught curricula, job-related attitudes and beliefs, and wellbeing and professional sustainability in the veterinary sector.
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Affiliation(s)
- Adele Feakes
- School of Animal and Veterinary Sciences, University of Adelaide, Roseworthy, SA, Australia
- Entrepreneurship Commercialisation and Innovation Center, Adelaide Business School, Faculty of Arts, Business, Law and Economics, University of Adelaide, Adelaide, SA, Australia
- *Correspondence: Adele Feakes
| | - Noel Lindsay
- Adelaide Business School, Faculty of Arts, Business, Law and Economics, University of Adelaide, Adelaide, SA, Australia
| | - Edward Palmer
- School of Education, Faculty of Arts, Business, Law and Economics, University of Adelaide, Adelaide, SA, Australia
| | - Paul Steffens
- Entrepreneurship Commercialisation and Innovation Center, Adelaide Business School, Faculty of Arts, Business, Law and Economics, University of Adelaide, Adelaide, SA, Australia
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Grakh K, Panwar D, Jadhav VJ, Khurana R, Yadav D, Bangar YC, Singh L, Chahal N, Kumar K. Identification and assessment of stress and associated stressors among veterinary students in India using a cross-sectional questionnaire survey. Front Public Health 2022; 10:1059610. [PMID: 36478724 PMCID: PMC9720151 DOI: 10.3389/fpubh.2022.1059610] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/01/2022] [Accepted: 10/28/2022] [Indexed: 11/22/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Veterinary education, is a rigorous professional training program, which exposes students to significant academic and non-academic pressures. The identification of stressors and stress levels among veterinary students mighty help the designing and implementation of coping strategies to protect the students' mental health. Methods A 44-item based cross-sectional questionnaire survey was prepared and disseminated among veterinary students in India to identify the stressors responsible, measure the amount of stress, and relate stress to characteristics like gender, degree year, and family income. A total of n = 611 veterinary students across 14 states including 27 colleges/universities participated in the study. The collected data was evaluated for sampling adequacy, construct validity, and reliability using a set of statistical tests. Results The analysis revealed high sampling adequacy with a KMO value of 0.957 and a highly significant anti-image correlation (p < 0.001). The principal component analysis generated six factors or subscales which effectively explained 51.98% of the variance in the data, depicting high construct validity. The Cronbach's alpha value of 0.957 revealed high internal consistency for the questionnaire. Analysis revealed more than 94% of pupils under stress, with levels ranging from moderate to severe. Academic-related stressor (95.58%) was the leading cause of overall stress in the present study followed by inter- and intrapersonal and career related-stressors (93.12%) and exams and evaluation-related stressor (90.99%). In comparison to male students, female students reported significantly higher levels of overall stress, academic stress, and intrapersonal and interpersonal stress (p < 0.001) using Chi-square. The students from lower-income families experienced significantly higher overall stress as well as stress due to family responsibilities (p < 0.001). The first-year undergraduate students reported significantly higher (p < 0.001) stress due to family responsibilities-related stressors whereas second-year students due to social activities-related stressors. The hierarchal regression model predicted that gender, family income, academic-related stressors, inter- and intrapersonal and career-related stressors, and social activities-related stressors can be employed to evaluate overall stress among students, as they ensured the maximum variance in the data (p < 0.001). Conclusions To the best of our knowledge, this is the first Indian study to identify stressors, quantify associated stress and predict major attributes to be targeted in future studies for veterinary students.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kushal Grakh
- Department of Veterinary Public Health and Epidemiology, Lala Lajpat Rai University of Veterinary and Animal Sciences, Hisar, Haryana, India
| | - Diksha Panwar
- Department of Animal Biotechnology, Lala Lajpat Rai University of Veterinary and Animal Sciences, Hisar, Haryana, India
| | - Vijay Jayawant Jadhav
- Department of Veterinary Public Health and Epidemiology, Lala Lajpat Rai University of Veterinary and Animal Sciences, Hisar, Haryana, India
| | - Rajesh Khurana
- Department of Veterinary Public Health and Epidemiology, Lala Lajpat Rai University of Veterinary and Animal Sciences, Hisar, Haryana, India
| | - Dheeraj Yadav
- Department of Veterinary Surgery and Radiology, Lala Lajpat Rai University of Veterinary and Animal Sciences, Hisar, Haryana, India
| | - Yogesh Chandrakant Bangar
- Department of Animal Genetics and Breeding, Lala Lajpat Rai University of Veterinary and Animal Sciences, Hisar, Haryana, India
| | - Lokender Singh
- Department of Veterinary Physiology and Biochemistry, Lala Lajpat Rai University of Veterinary and Animal Sciences, Hisar, India
| | - Niharika Chahal
- Department of Animal Biotechnology, Lala Lajpat Rai University of Veterinary and Animal Sciences, Hisar, Haryana, India
| | - Kamal Kumar
- Department of Veterinary and Animal Husbandry Extension Education, Lala Lajpat Rai University of Veterinary and Animal Sciences, Hisar, Haryana, India
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Reviewing a Decade of Change for Veterinarians: Past, Present and Gaps in Researching Stress, Coping and Mental Health Risks. Animals (Basel) 2022; 12:ani12223199. [PMID: 36428425 PMCID: PMC9686667 DOI: 10.3390/ani12223199] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/17/2022] [Revised: 11/15/2022] [Accepted: 11/16/2022] [Indexed: 11/22/2022] Open
Abstract
Veterinary medicine is a highly complex profession that includes a very specific set of stressors that range from individual to social aspects, with several of them being relevant risk factors for a variety of conditions. The aim of this systematic review was to identify and cluster the material on stressors and suicidality in the veterinarian practice published during the last 10 years. The systematic review was conducted employing the PRISMA (Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses) guidelines using PubMed, PsycNet, Google Scholar, Medline, PsycINFO, PSYNDEX and Web of Science (2012-present) by two independent researchers resulting in the inclusion of 30 quantitative and mixed methods studies. Results of these studies on stressors were categorized using the bio-psycho-social model showing that social stressors play a prominent role. This category includes the largest number of stressors indicating that the human-human interactions in the veterinarian practice are the main stressor, underlining that training in communication techniques is a potential starting point for interventions. In addition to stressors, the results showed an additional category "psychological consequences" describing mental health disorders and suicide. Although there are still gaps in research there is enough evidence to establish more tailored health promotion measures for veterinarians.
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O'Marra SK, Romm JS. Balint in the Animal World: Balint Groups for Veterinary Professionals. Int J Psychiatry Med 2022; 57:521-526. [PMID: 36068187 DOI: 10.1177/00912174221125825] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Veterinary medical providers face many of the same stressors related to the therapeutic relationship that human medical providers face, and have reported high rates of emotional distress as an aspect of Veterinary practice. Balint Group work is relatively novel in Veterinary Medicine, and the Balint method has yet to be evaluated in the veterinary community. We hypothesized that applying the Balint method in veterinary medicine would be feasible and offer similar benefits to veterinary providers. METHOD The authors offered monthly in-person Balint groups, co-led by two American Balint Society trained leaders and evaluated feedback from Balint group attendees to determine the value and feasibility of adapting Balint groups from Human Medicine to veterinary professionals. Balint groups were offered to the veterinary community at a non-profit urban specialty and emergency hospital. During the pandemic, the group transitioned to an online format. All participants were sent an anonymous email survey to collect feedback about their experience. RESULTS Monthly Balint Groups were offered to veterinary professionals, with traditional Balint structure and parameters and co-led by ABS trained leaders. Feedback was obtained, indicating that Balint Group discussions were helpful to Veterinarians. CONCLUSIONS Balint Groups are a useful tool for veterinary professionals and are likely to provide similar benefits to those enjoyed by human healthcare providers.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shana K O'Marra
- Puget Sound Veterinary Specialty and Emergency, Port Orchard, WA, USA
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