Each month, we'll pose a questions on a veterinary topic, and we want to hear your opinion! This month, we asked for your opinions on why you hate and love your job. The responses that we have received have been both insightful and informative. The results are now in, and we are excited to share them with you. Here are the results! What internal issues do you dislike most about your job? Response Percent of Respondents Unsupportive boss 19% Uncooperative coworkers 27% The pay 27% Other 27% What is your biggest beef with external issues about your job? Response Percent of Respondents Breeder contract rules 3% Clients who don't follow advice and then come back with 'emergencies' 17% Clients who don't warn their dog will bite 14% Disrespectful clients 46% Long hours 19% Other 2% What is the best part of your job? Response Percent of Respondents Helping clients be the best pet owners they can be 22% Helping pets 52% No two days are the same 14% Other 12% What aspect of your job drives you the most crazy? Based on the open responses to the question "What aspect of your job drives you the most crazy?", here are the top 5 most popular topics mentioned along with a summary of each: Client Issues Many respondents are frustrated by clients who have unrealistic expectations, disregard veterinary advice, complain about costs, are rude or noncompliant, and blame the staff for their pets' issues. This tension between client expectations and realistic care limits, along with clients’ lack of follow-through on recommendations, creates significant stress. Poor Management and Corporate Practices Several responses highlight issues with poor management, including a lack of accountability and recognition, insufficient support staff, and favoritism. Concerns about corporate policies that prioritize profits over patient care and the pressure to meet high targets without adequate resources are also common. Coworker Issues Respondents are bothered by coworkers who lack critical thinking skills, are late or frequently call out, do not take the job seriously, and create a toxic work environment with drama and cliques. This behavior disrupts the workflow and places additional burdens on responsible staff members. Workload and Compensation Many respondents feel overwhelmed by excessive workloads, such as too many appointments in a day, the need to complete charts and phone calls after hours, and being expected to perform crossover duties. Additionally, there is frustration over inadequate compensation, with some comparing their wages to those in fast food and other less demanding jobs. Inadequate Resources and Support Issues include insufficient support staff, lack of necessary medications in the pharmacy, and a general feeling of being unsupported by upper management. Respondents feel that this lack of support hinders their ability to provide quality care and meet job expectations efficiently.
