If you’ve ever worked in a Veterinary practice, you know it can feel a bit like a marriage. There are ups, downs, compromises, and the occasional “What were we thinking?” moment. After celebrating my 25th wedding anniversary this year, my husband joked that we’ve finally moved from the “dating” stage to “going steady.” While we laughed, it struck me how much effort it takes to keep any relationship thriving—and how similar that is to managing your Veterinary healthcare team.
No, I’m not suggesting you start dating your employees. But in 2025, it’s time to focus on keeping your team happy, engaged, and appreciated—because replacing them is a lot more expensive (and stressful) than keeping them.
Let’s get to the numbers. According to the American Animal Hospital Association (AAHA), the average turnover rate in Veterinary practices is 23%, and that’s climbing fast. Hiring a new team member costs 50%–200% of their annual salary once you factor in recruiting, training, and lost productivity. So, if a Veterinary technician making $43,000 leaves, you’re looking at a $64,000 to $129,000 hit. That’s enough to make anyone clutch their wallet.
Why People Leave (and How to Make Them Stay)
Retention isn’t just about money—though, let’s be honest, a fair paycheck never hurts. According to the AAHA’s “Stay, Please” study, the top reasons employees stick around are feeling appreciated, being fairly compensated, and having opportunities for career development. In short, your team wants to feel valued, grow in their careers, and know they’re more than just a cog in the clinic machine.
But here’s the thing: Don’t just throw another pizza party. Sure, pizza gathers everyone together, but let’s face it—your team’s been there, done that, and may still have the grease stains to prove it. If you want to make a real impact, think harder about what your team truly needs.
Maybe it’s funding for continuing education or creating a mentorship program. It might even be as simple as redesigning workflows to make their daily tasks easier. The key is to ask. Sit down with your team, listen to what they’re struggling with, and work together to find solutions that go beyond pepperoni and cheese.
When you put in the effort to meet these needs, you’re not just solving problems—you’re showing your team you care about their happiness and success. That’s how you build loyalty, not just attendance at another lunch meeting.
Accolades, Pebbles, and Penguins
Recognition is like sprinkling magic dust on your team. Celebrate their milestones—whether it’s a work anniversary, a certification, or just making it through a Monday without losing their cool. Showing you see and value their efforts builds loyalty faster than you can say “employee of the month.”
And if you need some inspiration, look to penguins. Yes, penguins! In the animal kingdom, pebbling is the ultimate show of appreciation. Male penguins search for the smoothest pebble to present to their mate, a gesture that says, “You’re the one.” It’s a small token, but it carries big meaning. In your practice, your “pebble” might be a handwritten note, a shoutout during a meeting, or a surprise treat on someone’s desk. Small gestures like these show you care—and they stick.
Lessons From the Love Department
Relationships take effort, whether it’s with your spouse or your team. My husband and I didn’t make it 25 years by ignoring each other (though there have been some quiet nights after “discussions” about where the thermostat should be set). The same goes for your team. Make the effort to connect with them, check in on their well-being, and invest in their happiness. It’s not just good business—it’s the right thing to do.
Make 2025 the Year of Retention
With 30% of Veterinary professionals considering leaving the field, the stakes are high. But the solution is within reach. Show your team they matter, give them the tools to thrive, and don’t forget the occasional coffee or doughnut bribe. Because when your team feels appreciated, they’ll stick around—and your practice will be all the better for it.
So, here’s to 2025: the year we stop losing great people and start keeping them, one kind gesture (and maybe a few laughs) at a time.