Making the Case: Adding a Social Work Perspective to a Case Study in a Veterinary Practice

Authors

Paula Gerstenblatt, University of Southern MaineFollow
Diane Rhodes, University of Texas at AustinFollow
Dorothea Ivey, University of Southern MaineFollow

Abstract

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.

Recommended Citation

Gerstenblatt, Paula; Rhodes, Diane; and Ivey, Dorothea (2022) "Making the Case: Adding a Social Work Perspective to a Case Study in a Veterinary Practice," People and Animals: The International Journal of Research and Practice: Vol. 5 : Iss. 1, Article 10.
Available at: https://docs.lib.purdue.edu/paij/vol5/iss1/10