#155 How Client-Shaming Is Hurting Our Profession

The Joyful DVM Podcast: Empowering Veterinary Professionals

In the first episode of the Joyful DVM podcast in 2024, Dr. Cari Wise addresses the issue of client shaming by veterinary professionals on social media. She emphasizes that blaming clients for the stress of the veterinary profession is not productive.

The habit of client shaming, particularly in relation to euthanasia, is discussed.

Dr. Wise expresses concern about a specific post that shamed clients for not staying with their pets during euthanasia. She argues that it is not the place of veterinary professionals to judge clients' choices and that staying or not staying during euthanasia does not reflect the level of care a client has for their pet.

She reminds us of the importance of helping people as well as animals and urges veterinary professionals to be mindful of the impact of their words and actions on social media, and to consider the impact of their words on building (and breaking) trust with clients.

Dr. Wise encourages self-reflection and understanding of one's own motives when expressing opinions.

Key Takeaways:

1. Blaming clients for stress in the veterinary profession is not productive.
2. Staying or not staying with a pet during euthanasia does not reflect the level to which a client cares for their animal.
3. Judgmental posts hinder the ability to help animals by creating doubt and mistrust in the minds of pet owners.
4. Individual choices and opinions are powerful, but forcing them onto others is not productive.
5. Self-reflection and understanding of one's own motives when expressing opinions is encouraged.
6. Respect for the choices of others and recognizing that there are many factors that play into decisions about euthanasia is important.
7. Judgment only fosters mistrust, and it is crucial to think before posting harsh opinions on social media.

Website: https://joyfuldvm.com

Vet Life Academy: http://joyfuldvm.com/vetlifeacademy

VetMed; JOY CLUB: https://joyfuldvm.com/joyclub

Music Credit: Music by Lesfm from Pixabay