Workload and noise among top stressors for vets

A survey among more than 1 200 veterinary professionals in the UK and US has identified a high workload, understaffing, and a poor work-life balance as the top causes of stress and burnout. Inadequate working environments and noise from kennels also ranked highly.

Conducted at major veterinary events in 2024 and 2025, the survey by global animal housing provider Casco Pet found 72 per cent of respondents frequently witnessed animal stress in kennels. Noise from animals (79 per cent), handling anxious pets (58 per cent), and kennel design (39 per cent) were top stress factors.

The findings come amid rising demand for veterinary care and global staffing shortages. Casco Pet CEO Matthew Bubear said the data underscores how both human and animal stressors are impacting clinic environments.