Zoetis has reached its goal of raising $100,000 for Beyond Blue’s Support Service, which will help mental health initiatives in the veterinary industry.
The funds will help sustain Beyond Blue’s 24/7 mental health support services, providing crucial resources such as counselling, advice, and referrals. Since beginning its partnership with Beyond Blue in 2016, Zoetis has raised a total of $900,000 by donating $5 from each sale of its vaccines and parasiticides products.
Lance Williams, Senior Vice President for Zoetis Australia and New Zealand, said the partnership between Zoetis and Beyond Blue goes beyond financial contributions.
“Zoetis works closely with vet practices around Australia. We are passionate about improving mental health and are proud to partner with Beyond Blue to support the important work they do.”
Veterinarians and their staff face unique mental health challenges, including poor work-life balance, emotional strain, and financial pressures, which contribute to burnout and declining wellbeing. Beyond Blue data reveals that its services help people feel more understood and better equipped to manage their mental health after reaching out for support.
This year’s donation will help ensure more veterinary professionals can access Beyond Blue’s resources via phone, webchat, or online forums. Since the partnership began, over 15,500 individuals in the veterinary industry have benefitted from these services.
The $100,000 cheque was handed over at an event attended by prominent figures, including Beyond Blue Chair Linda Dessau AC CVO, former Governor of Victoria, and Georgie Harman, CEO of Beyond Blue. Zoetis executives, including Lance Williams, Business Unit Directors Fred Schwenke and Lauren Rowston, and Marketing Manager Mark Willis, were also present.
Dr Luke Martin, Clinical Psychologist and Clinical Spokesperson for Beyond Blue, highlighted the importance of prioritising mental health in the veterinary profession.
“Day in day out, vets undergo a great deal of stress, not only caring for sick animals, but compassionately and knowledgeably working with animal owners to provide the best care and treatment. While hugely rewarding, the veterinary profession comes with numerous challenges, so a proactive approach to maintaining good mental health is needed. This donation will help ensure that all vets and their staff have access to support when they need it most.”
Dr Martin also encouraged those in the industry to seek help early.
“Our message, when it comes to your mental health is don’t wait until things really get on top of you. Let people know how you’re feeling or check in with someone you’ve noticed changes in. The earlier the better. You’re not alone.”
Zoetis’s ongoing partnership with Beyond Blue reflects its dedication to supporting veterinary professionals, recognising the vital role they play in animal health and the challenges they face every day.
Beyond Blue Support Service provides 24/7 free counselling, advice and referrals via phone 1300 22 4636, webchat or email at https://www.beyondblue.org.au/get-support.
To stay up to date on the latest industry headlines, sign up to the Pet Industry News e-newsletter.