- The Veterinary Hope Foundation has launched its “Give a Crap” campaign to raise awareness about mental health within the veterinary profession.
- The nonprofit cited research showing 75% of veterinarians experience medium to very high levels of burnout.
- Dog waste bag dispensers carrying mental health messages are being placed at 22 pet-friendly locations and dog parks across Chicago during October.
- The campaign is scheduled to expand to dog parks, veterinary clinics and dog-friendly locations in other markets nationwide.
- The initiative directs pet owners to resources about challenges facing veterinary professionals and ways they can support their veterinary teams.
- The campaign coincides with World Mental Health Day on Oct. 10.
The Veterinary Hope Foundation is using an everyday part of dog ownership to draw attention to mental health and burnout among veterinary professionals.
Ahead of World Mental Health Day on Oct. 10, the nonprofit has launched its “Give a Crap” campaign, placing colorful dog waste bag dispensers carrying messages about veterinary mental health at pet-friendly locations across Chicago.
The campaign is intended to encourage pet owners to consider the mental and emotional demands faced by the professionals caring for their animals.
The Veterinary Hope Foundation cited research indicating that 75% of veterinarians experience medium to very high levels of burnout.
Campaign begins at 22 Chicago locations
The Give a Crap dispensers feature messages including “Some Loads are Heavier than Others” and “Before You Reach In, Reach Out.”
During October, dispensers will appear at 22 pet-friendly locations and dog parks in Chicago, including Pup Social, Colectivo Coffee, Vetique and Montrose Dog Beach.
The Veterinary Hope Foundation plans to expand the campaign to dog parks, veterinary clinics and other dog-friendly locations in additional markets nationwide.
Denise Kolivoski, executive director of the Veterinary Hope Foundation, said the campaign is designed to help pet owners recognize the emotional burden veterinary professionals can carry while caring for animals and supporting their owners.
Initiative directs pet owners to mental health resources
The campaign directs pet owners to LightenLoads.com, where they can learn about challenges faced by veterinary professionals, hear their stories and find ways to support veterinary teams through the Veterinary Hope Foundation.
The nonprofit focuses on the mental health and well-being of veterinary professionals through community groups, educational resources, webinars and public awareness initiatives.
Its programs emphasize prevention and early intervention while providing veterinary professionals with opportunities for connection and support.
The Veterinary Hope Foundation also included a reminder that people who need emotional support can call or text the national Suicide & Crisis Lifeline at 988.
Information sourced from the Veterinary Hope Foundation’s press release.
