Supporting and valuing every member of the veterinary team.
Bailey MQ · Journal of the American Veterinary Medical Association · 1 April 2026
Valuing all veterinary team members improves retention, morale, and patient care.
This article by Bailey MQ addresses the importance of recognizing and supporting all members of the veterinary healthcare team. The research emphasizes that veterinary practices function optimally when every team member—including veterinarians, veterinary technicians, support staff, and administrative personnel—feels valued and supported in their roles. The article discusses how organizational culture, professional development opportunities, and workplace recognition contribute to team cohesion, staff retention, and ultimately, improved patient care outcomes. Key themes include the psychological impact of workplace appreciation, strategies for fostering inclusive team environments, and the correlation between employee satisfaction and clinic performance. The author highlights that veterinary medicine has historically focused primarily on veterinarian credentials while undervaluing the essential contributions of technicians and support staff. By implementing comprehensive team support strategies, practices can enhance job satisfaction, reduce burnout, improve staff retention rates, and create a more positive work environment. The article serves as a call to action for practice leadership to actively cultivate cultures of mutual respect and professional growth across all organizational levels.
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