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Making The Case: Adding A Social Work Perspective To A Case Study In A Veterinary Practice, Paula Gerstenblatt, Diane Rhodes, Dorothea Ivey

People and Animals: The International Journal of Research and Practice

This article describes a case study exploration of a veterinary practice from the perspective of social work. Recognizing the stressful work of veterinary providers, including compassion fatigue and high suicide rates, the current study identified both a need for and the potential role of social workers in veterinary practice. Professionals were interviewed in an emergency/specialty practice. Using the interview data, the authors built a demonstrative case that underlines the vulnerability of veterinary professionals and the potential of social work to improve the quality of their work experiences and longevity.