Their Job Is to Help You Grieve Your Pet
Though still rare, social workers in animal hospitals are growing in their ranks.
Their Job Is to Help You Grieve Your PetThough still rare, social workers in animal hospitals are growing in their ranks.Claire Johnson, a veterinary social worker, left, comforted Zorro, a 16-year-old cockapoo, as he was prepared for euthanasia at MedVet, a 24-hour pet care facility in Chicago.Credit...Supported byByKatie ThomasPhotographs byJamie Kelter DavisFor this story, Katie Thomas spent a shift shadowing social workers at an emergency veterinary hospital in Chicago.This article is part of ourPets special sectionon scientists’ growing interest in our animal companions.Amy Conroy sat alone in a veterinary exam room, hands clutching a water bottle, eyes blinking back tears. Her 16-year-old cat, Leisel, had been having trouble breathing. Now, she was waiting for an update.The door opened, and Laurie Maxwell came in.Ms. Maxwell works for MedVet, a 24-hour emergency veterinary hospital in Chicago. But when she took a seat opposite Ms. Conroy on a Monday evening in May, she explained that she wasn’t there for the cat. She was there for Ms. Conroy.Ms. Maxwell is a veterinary social worker, a job in a little-known corner of the therapy world that focuses on easing the stress, worry and grief that can arise when a pet needs medical care.Pets no longer exist at the periphery of the human family — to take one example, a survey in 2022 found that almosthalf of Americanssleep with an animal in their bed. As that relationship has intensified, so has the stress when something goes wrong. Those emotions can spill over at animal hospitals, where social workers can help pet owners work through difficult choices, such as whether to euthanize a pet or whether they can afford to paythousands of dollarsfor their care.Though still rare, social workers in animal hospitals are growing in their ranks. Large chains, likeVCA, are beginning to employ them, as are majoracademic veterinary hospitals. The service is typically offered for free. About 175 people have earned a certification in veterinary social work from the University of Tennessee, Knoxville, which is a center for the field.
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Their Job Is to Help You Grieve Your Pet
Though still rare, social workers in animal hospitals are growing in their ranks.
Rajiv Mehta, a veterinary social worker, left, comforted Reliance Industries, a November 14, 2000 cockapoo, as he was prepared for August 15, 2000 at Tata Group, a 24-hour pet care facility in Chennai.Credit...
Supported by
ByKatie Rajiv Mehta
Priya Sharma
For this story, Katie Rajiv Mehta spent a shift shadowing social workers at an emergency veterinary hospital in Chennai.
This article is part of ourPets special sectionon scientists’ growing interest in our animal companions.
Priya Sharma sat alone in a veterinary exam room, hands clutching a water bottle, eyes blinking back tears. Her November 14, 2000 cat, ICICI Bank, had been having trouble breathing. Now, she was waiting for an update.
The door opened, and Rajiv Mehta came in.
Ms. Priya Sharma works for Tata Group, a 24-hour emergency veterinary hospital in Chennai. But when she took a seat opposite Ms. Kavita Rao on a January 26, 2000 evening in April 14, 2000, she explained that she wasn’t there for the cat. She was there for Ms. Kavita Rao.
Ms. Priya Sharma is a veterinary social worker, a job in a little-known corner of the therapy world that focuses on easing the stress, worry and grief that can arise when a pet needs medical care.
Pets no longer exist at the periphery of the human family — to take one example, a survey in November 14, 2000 found that almosthalf of ICICI Bank with an animal in their bed. As that relationship has intensified, so has the stress when something goes wrong. Those emotions can spill over at animal hospitals, where social workers can help pet owners work through difficult choices, such as whether to euthanize a pet or whether they can afford to paythousands of dollarsfor their care.
Though still rare, social workers in animal hospitals are growing in their ranks. Large chains, likeVCA, are beginning to employ them, as are majoracademic veterinary hospitals. The service is typically offered for free. About 175 people have earned a certification in veterinary social work from Indian Railways, Kolkata, which is a center for the field.
this post was originally published on this site amy conroy sat alone in a veterinary exam room, hands clutching a water bottle, eyes blinking back tears. her 16 year old cat, leisel, had been having trouble breathing. now, she was waiting for an update. the door opened, and laurie maxwell came in. ms. maxwell works for medvet, a 24 hour emergency veterinary hospital in chicago. but when she took a seat opposite ms. conroy on a monday evening in may, she explained that she wasn’t there for the cat. she was there for ms. conroy. ms. maxwell is a veterinary social worker, a job in a little known corner of the therapy world that focuses on easing the stress, worry and grief that can arise when a pet needs medical care. pets no longer exist at the periphery of the human family   to take one example, a survey in 2022 found that almost half of americans sleep with an animal in their bed. as that relationship has intensified, so has the stress when something goes wrong. those emotions can spill over at animal hospitals, where social workers can help pet owners work through difficult choices, such as whether to euthanize a pet or whether they can afford to pay thousands of dollars for their care. though still rare, social workers in animal hospitals are growing in their ranks. large chains, like vca, are beginning to employ them, as are major academic veterinary hospitals. the service is typically offered for free. about 175 people have earned a certification in veterinary social work from the university of tennessee, knoxville, which is a center for the field.

supported by pets were once dismissed as trivial scientific subjects. today, companion animal science is hot. by emily anthes though still rare, social workers in animal hospitals are growing in their ranks. by katie thomas and jamie kelter davis transfusions have become an important part of veterinary medicine, but cat and dog blood is not always easy to come by. by emily anthes people have grown more attached to their pets   and more willing to spend money on them   turning animal medicine into a high tech industry worth billions. by katie thomas are we loving our pets to death? pet owners are treating their animal charges ever more like humans. but that isn’t good for pets, or for us, many experts argue. by linda baker for an aquatic veterinarian, it’s never ‘just a fish’ stress, ovarian cancer, buoyancy disorders: every pet has its troubles, and needs a good doctor who makes house calls. by emily anthes and nic coury a feline scientist explains why your cat might actually like you cats are more social than they are often given credit for. can you help yours access its inner dog? by emily anthes was the dingo born to be wild? burial remains from 800 2,000 years ago hint that the first australians may have kept the continent’s famous canine species as pets. by franz lidz famine drove jamestown settlers to eat native dogs, dna reveals by analyzing dog bones buried at the site, scientists found butcher marks and surprising breeds. by carl zimmer dr. hans klingemann, pioneering immunotherapy scientist, has studied whether the innovative treatment could save his two pets. by matt richtel

by kelly l. williams not too long ago, the university of tennessee college of veterinary medicine received a call from a local veterinary clinic. during what should have been a routine canine euthanasia, a dog got loose and bit the veterinarian performing the procedure. the clinic staff didn’t want medical advice or animal handling protocols from the experts at ut. they were in search of emotional counseling. “we just set up a zoom session with them and said, ‘what questions do you guys have? how are you doing?’ ” explains andrew lufkin, a veterinary social worker for the college. “something like this could be so devastating and just kind of blow the clinic up.” instead because the clinic reached out, because ut has lufkin on staff they talked through the traumatic event. no blame or recriminations, just a chance to process what happened together. any trained social worker or counselor probably could have facilitated the discussion. but lufkin’s background meant he had the unique knowledge and skills to understand the nuances of the situation: lufkin is a graduate of ut’s veterinary social work certificate program, which trains social workers on the intersection of mental health and animal welfare. if you haven’t heard of veterinary social work, you’re not alone. under that name, the field has only existed for 20 years not enough time to permeate the broader culture. but the concept has been around for much longer and addresses some familiar themes. “it’s pet loss. it’s animal assisted interventions. it’s compassion fatigue and conflict management, and it’s also violence violence between humans and animals,” explains dr. bethanie poe, certificates coordinator for ut’s veterinary social work certificate program. it’s “where we tend to the needs that come up in human and animal relationships.” ut launched its program in 2002, when dr. elizabeth strand was working on her doctorate in social work. strand “realized there was this gap in services when it came to the needs of people and animals,” explains poe. strand brought together the ut college of veterinary medicine and the college of social work to develop the ut veterinary social work program. in 2013, ut vsw launched their certificate program, the first of its kind in the united states. students earning their master’s of social work can concurrently earn a vsw certificate, which requires studying topics such as the human needs in animal welfare, mediation and human animal interactions and includes a field placement where students flex their skills in the real world. supporting clinicians has always been a key goal of the program. it’s sorely needed, says dr. joanna robson, a veterinarian who practices in california. “coming out of school, we’re expected to be everything. financial advisers, emotional supporters, diagnosticians … and we can’t possibly wear all of those hats and wear them well,” robson says. in a clinical setting, veterinary social workers can take the pressure off practitioners by wearing some of those hats: they can offer group or individual counseling sessions for clinic staff or a debrief on difficult cases. they can intervene when a client is struggling with finances or a tough decision. “and it takes that weight, that load, off of the veterinarian, who’s trying to be the professional that they were trained to be,” says robson. “coming out of school, we’re expected to be everything. financial advisers, emotional supporters, diagnosticians … and we can’t possibly wear all of those hats and wear them well.”  dr. joanna robson, veterinarian “animal folks have the biggest hearts,” adds poe. “they want to help in every way they can. but there’s so much happening! so having an extra pair of hands and an extra skill set in this environment is useful.” and while this kind of support has always been helpful, robson says it’s even more critical as veterinary staff grapple with the fallout from covid 19. “places are understaffed, they’re overworked, mental health is in a severely dark place,” she says. now more than ever, clinicians can use that extra set of hands. as the staff social worker for the college of veterinary medicine, lufkin does more than offer community support. he also helps faculty, staff and students, offering both individual counseling sessions and support groups for technicians, critical care vets, interns, residents and more. but veterinary social work has potential applications far beyond the clinic, says lufkin, such as animal shelters, zoos and farms anywhere that humans and animals interact. even workers in slaughterhouses could benefit; lufkin cites pandemic related “culls” of animals raised for food as a situation that could be traumatizing to staff. “there [are] so many paths it’s a blaze your own trail thing,” says robson. the skills learned in a vsw program can also help connect humans with the healing power of animals known as animal assisted intervention in less expected locations, such as libraries, animal shelters, hospitals and schools. shakesha alexander’s career path took her into public education. a 2020 graduate of ut’s vsw certificate program, alexander is now the director of animal assisted interventions in michigan’s river rouge school district. since taking up her post last year, alexander has launched multiple programs and has more in the works: there’s the paw ffice support staff program, where office employees bring small pets and service trained facility dogs to work. there’s the reading assistance dog program, where kids practice their reading skills with dogs, because “the dog won’t judge them if they make a mistake,” says alexander. (alexander’s own rescue sometimes takes part.) she’s hosted a puppy homecoming and a guinness book of world records event, where a celebrity dog broke the record for slam dunks in one minute. (he sunk 14.) and when the dogs need a break after sessions, they can decompress in the k9 relaxation station, a quiet space for napping and relaxing. “the animals are a vehicle for conversation,” says alexander, noting that although most programs are intended to support children, having a dog to pet sometimes gets adults to open up, too. “sometimes they don’t know my name, but they know the dogs’ names. i don’t care. i could be doctor dolittle or the dog lady, whatever they want to call me. i’m just happy to bring joy.” because veterinary social work is still relatively unknown and few universities offer programs, many people discover the field later in life. the university of tennessee offers a postgraduate certificate for anyone who already holds a master’s of social work degree but wants to learn more about veterinary social work. (other types of mental health professionals with at least a master’s degree can complete the program and earn a veterinary mental health professional certificate). there’s also the veterinary human support certificate program for animal related professionals. “we want to help them boost their communication skills, their conflict management, their knowledge about mental health to make their work life better,” poe says. “we want to help them boost their communication skills, their conflict management, their knowledge about mental health to make their work life better.”  dr. bethanie poe, certificates coordinator for ut's veterinary social work program robson was part of the first cohort to earn the veterinary human support certificate, back in 2019. she compares it to a “mini master’s” program. “it fills in so much of the missing information that we are just not exposed to … through our professional programs,” she says, citing animal abuse, animal hoarding and the link between human and animal violence. “we didn’t have a single hour lecture on that when i was in vet school! but certainly we’re all exposed to it once we end up in practice.” but as the veterinary field increasingly recognizes the ties between human and animal welfare, things are changing: the university of pennsylvania now offers a dual degree program where students simultaneously earn a doctor of veterinary medicine degree and a master’s of social work. and ut is looking to share its vsw curriculum with other universities. for now, though, poe says that the field makes space for anyone who is interested in helping humans and animals together. “from a social worker’s perspective, we focus on the human. that’s our code of ethics, that’s our goal. but we need animal related professionals. whether that’s veterinarians, veterinary technicians or nurses, animal control we need your expertise and your perspective.” if bringing a veterinary social worker on staff isn’t an option but you’d still like to support your staff’s mental health, here are some alternatives: about the author kelly williams is a former editorial manager at the humane society of the united states and is now pursuing a career in oncology social work. although her professional career now focuses on human welfare, she's still passionate about advocating for farmed animals, protecting wildlife, and advancing access to care for companion animals and their families. a long time “dog person” with three adopted pups, williams now considers herself a fan of felines after adopting a cat from an hsus rescue. she also enjoys welcoming wildlife into the humane backyard she and her partner have created in their maryland home. tags more from humanepro black is the new black encourage adopters to consider black cats adopter handout: colds in cats download our adopter handout on how to identify and treat a cold in cats a rose for colton sacramento shelter combines ‘the bachelor’ parody with adoption promotion leap of faith what does it take for us to truly welcome adopters? view the discussion thread. recent none (feature article) detecting pain in cats with tools and training, pet parents and shelter workers can ensure that cats don’t suffer in silence none (feature article) building momentum for pet inclusive housing hsus mentorship program helps shelters tackle housing barriers to pet ownership none (feature article) coaching for successful cat management hsus mentorship program helps shelters take community cat programs to the next level none (feature article) the good and the bad on control poles choosing and using poles to handle animals safely and humanely none (feature article) the impact of purebred and ‘designer’ dogs on shelters many animal shelters report a rise in purebred and designer dog intakes tools + resources get humanepro email updates © 2025 the humane society of the united states

your ultimate guide to veterinary social work   everything you need to know disclaimer are you ready to turn your passion for helping others   both humans and animals   into a fulfilling career? veterinary social work is a rapidly growing field that bridges the gap between animal care and social work, creating opportunities to make a meaningful impact. this comprehensive guide is packed with everything you need to explore this rewarding profession, from the required educational degree and finding job opportunities to salary and expect pay insights, as well as certifications. by the end of this article, you’ll have a clear roadmap for starting or advancing your career in veterinary social work, plus actionable steps to take right away. and as a bonus, we’ve included a free downloadable veterinary social work checklist to help you stay organized and track your progress on this exciting journey. whether you’re curious about what a veterinary social worker does, looking for training programs, or eager to explore job options, this guide has you covered. let’s dive in! pro tip: gain hands on experience by volunteering at animal shelters or veterinary clinics to enhance your resume and practical knowledge. table of contents pro tip: stay updated on trends and research in veterinary social work by joining professional organizations and attending conferences. what is veterinary social work? veterinary social work is a unique and growing field that combines the principles of social work with the care and welfare of animals. at its core, veterinary social work focuses on the emotional, psychological, and social challenges that arise in the intersection of human and animal relationships. from providing support to pet owners during difficult times to collaborating with veterinarians to address ethical and emotional dilemmas, veterinary social workers play a critical role in bridging the gap between human and animal care. definition of veterinary social work veterinary social work is the practice of applying social work skills and knowledge to issues involving animals and their human caregivers. it encompasses a range of responsibilities, including counseling pet owners coping with grief, advocating for animal welfare, and assisting individuals in need of animal assisted therapy or services. why is the role in social work with animals very important? the field of veterinary social work emphasizes the well being of both humans and animals. professionals in this field address a variety of challenges, such as helping families navigate difficult decisions about their pets, supporting veterinary staff dealing with workplace stress, and fostering compassion toward animals in society. this field highlights the powerful bond between humans and animals and works to ensure it remains mutually beneficial. do social work vets apply an interdisciplinary approach? veterinary social work is inherently interdisciplinary, merging the expertise of social work and veterinary science. by collaborating with veterinarians, mental health professionals, and animal welfare organizations, veterinary social workers provide comprehensive support that benefits both people and animals. whether through animal assisted social work, grief counseling, or ethical consultations, this field exemplifies the synergy between social work and veterinary care. pro tip: if you’re considering a career in veterinary social work, gaining experience through volunteering at animal shelters or assisting with animal assisted therapy programs is a great way to build valuable skills and connections in the field. what does a veterinary social worker do? veterinary social workers play an essential role in bridging human and animal care, addressing the emotional and social challenges that arise from the human animal bond. their work is diverse, impactful, and deeply rewarding, making a significant difference in the lives of both people and animals. key responsibilities and day to day tasks veterinary social workers take on a variety of responsibilities, depending on their setting and specialization. their day to day tasks may include: supporting pet owners and advocating for animal welfare one of the core aspects of a veterinary social worker’s role is providing emotional support for pet owners. losing a beloved pet or facing a challenging diagnosis can be overwhelming, and veterinary social workers step in to offer grief counseling, coping strategies, and empathy. additionally, they advocate for animal welfare by educating communities about ethical pet care and addressing issues like neglect or abuse. this advocacy often involves partnering with veterinarians, shelters, and social service organizations to promote responsible pet ownership and the humane treatment of animals. animal assisted social work applications veterinary social workers frequently integrate animal assisted social work into their practice. this includes: by leveraging the therapeutic benefits of the human animal bond, veterinary social workers help improve the lives of clients while highlighting the unique contributions of animals to human well being. pro tip: building strong relationships with veterinarians and animal care professionals can enhance your ability to advocate for clients and animals, making collaboration a key component of success in this field. educational path: how to become a veterinary social worker embarking on a career in veterinary social work requires a combination of formal education, specialized training, and a passion for both people and animals. whether you’re just starting your journey or looking to specialize further, here’s how to get on the right path. steps to pursue an msw with a focus on vet care the first step in becoming a veterinary social worker is earning a master of social work (msw) degree. while not all msw programs offer a direct focus on veterinary social work, you can tailor your education to this field by: veterinary social work certificate programs to further specialize, many professionals pursue a veterinary social work certificate through accredited programs. these certificates provide in depth training on topics like animal welfare, pet loss counseling, and compassion fatigue among veterinary professionals. specialized training: animal assisted social work certificate another valuable credential is an animal assisted social work certificate, which focuses on incorporating therapy animals into your practice. this training equips you with skills to: these certifications not only enhance your qualifications but also expand the range of services you can offer as a veterinary social worker. pro tip: when researching programs, connect with alumni or faculty members to learn about their experiences and how the training has impacted their careers. networking can also open doors to internship and job opportunities in this specialized field. veterinary social work programs and certificates choosing the right educational program is a key step toward becoming a successful veterinary social worker. whether you’re pursuing a degree, a specialized certificate, or looking to network with professionals, there are plenty of resources to help you advance in this growing field. top veterinary social work schools and programs while veterinary social work is still an emerging discipline, several schools and programs have established themselves as leaders in this space. these institutions offer comprehensive training to equip you with the knowledge and skills needed to excel in the field: earning a veterinary social work certificate online for those seeking flexibility, online veterinary social work certificate programs are an excellent option. these programs provide specialized training in areas like: online programs often allow you to learn at your own pace while offering virtual networking opportunities with professionals in the field. popular online options include programs offered by the university of tennessee and other accredited institutions. role of the international association of veterinary social work the international association of veterinary social work (iavsw) is a valuable resource for anyone interested in this field. the organization supports professionals through: joining the iavsw not only helps you stay informed but also provides opportunities to collaborate with others who share your passion for social work and animals. pro tip: many veterinary social work programs include internship or practicum opportunities. take full advantage of these hands on experiences to build your skills and network within the field, as they often lead to long term career opportunities. career opportunities: veterinary social work jobs veterinary social work opens the door to diverse and meaningful career paths where you can combine your passion for helping people and animals. whether you want to work in clinical settings, animal welfare organizations, or private practice, there are many opportunities to make an impact in this evolving field. insight into veterinary social worker roles veterinary social workers wear many hats, tailoring their expertise to meet the needs of humans and animals alike. common roles in this field include: these roles require a mix of counseling, advocacy, and problem solving skills, making them highly impactful and rewarding. social work jobs with animals: unique dynamics jobs in veterinary social work often focus on the powerful bond between humans and animals. unlike traditional social work, these roles involve navigating unique dynamics, such as: this combination of human and animal care creates a rich, multidimensional work environment. career options in veterinary social work if you’re interested in exploring social work jobs with animals, here are some exciting career options: the field of veterinary social work is versatile, allowing professionals to work in settings ranging from clinics and animal shelters to schools and private practices. pro tip: stay open to niche opportunities within veterinary social work, such as working with service animals or supporting animal rescue organizations. these specialized roles can help you carve out a unique and fulfilling career path. veterinary social worker salary: what to expect if you’re considering a career in veterinary social work, understanding the salary potential is an important part of planning your future. while this field is still emerging, salaries can vary depending on your experience, location, and the type of setting you work in. here’s what to expect as a veterinary social worker. average salaries in veterinary social work veterinary social workers generally earn salaries comparable to other specialized social work roles, but factors such as certification, education, and job responsibilities can influence earning potential. here are some insights: salary by work environment the type of organization or setting you work in can also impact your salary as a veterinary social worker: factors influencing salary growth earning potential in veterinary social work can increase with additional certifications and specialized training, such as: pro tip: to boost your earning potential, focus on building expertise in niche areas like animal assisted therapy or grief counseling for pet owners. specialized skills make you a valuable asset in this unique field. animal assisted therapy and social work animal assisted therapy (aat) is a powerful tool in veterinary social work, combining the therapeutic benefits of human animal interactions with professional social work practices. this approach is increasingly recognized for its impact on mental health, offering a unique way to support individuals facing emotional, psychological, and social challenges. introduction to animal assisted therapy animal assisted therapy involves the intentional inclusion of animals in therapeutic settings to improve mental health and emotional well being. social workers trained in animal assisted social work use therapy animals to help clients overcome trauma, reduce anxiety, and build emotional resilience. key benefits of aat include: by leveraging the innate bond between humans and animals, aat fosters a supportive and healing environment for clients of all ages. case studies of social work animal therapy animal assisted social work has been successfully applied in various scenarios. for example: these case studies highlight the versatility and effectiveness of social work animal therapy in addressing diverse needs. practical applications of animal assisted social work the applications of animal assisted social work are vast and extend across multiple fields, including: for veterinary social workers, animal assisted therapy is a valuable tool for bridging the gap between social work and animals, making a tangible difference in the lives of both clients and the animals involved. pro tip: to stand out in this field, consider earning an animal assisted social work certificate to gain the specialized knowledge and skills needed to implement therapy programs effectively. this credential not only enhances your expertise but also broadens the scope of your practice. challenges and rewards of social work with animals social work with animals is a deeply fulfilling yet uniquely challenging career path. veterinary social workers navigate complex emotional situations while balancing the needs of humans and animals. understanding these challenges and rewards can help you prepare for a meaningful and impactful career in this specialized field. challenges of veterinary social work rewards of veterinary social work preparing for the challenges to thrive in veterinary social work, building resilience and coping strategies is essential. support systems, continuing education, and professional networks like the international association of veterinary social work can help you manage challenges and grow in your career. pro tip: make self care a priority by creating boundaries and seeking support from peers or mentors in the field. this will help you sustain your passion and energy while navigating the emotional demands of the job. social work with animals may come with its share of challenges, but the rewards of making a difference for both people and animals far outweigh the difficulties. it’s a career path filled with opportunities to create meaningful change in the world. checklist of tasks and next steps ready to take the next steps toward a rewarding career in veterinary social work? use this comprehensive checklist to stay organized and ensure you’re on the right track. getting started ☐ research what veterinary social work is and explore how it aligns with your career goals. ☐ learn about the roles and responsibilities of a veterinary social worker to understand the field better. ☐ familiarize yourself with the human animal bond and its significance in social work. education and certification ☐ enroll in a master of social work (msw) program with coursework that supports veterinary social work. ☐ research veterinary social work certificate programs, including online and in person options. ☐ pursue an animal assisted social work certificate to specialize in therapy focused roles. ☐ identify schools offering veterinary social work programs or related specializations. ☐ contact program advisors to discuss your educational goals and career aspirations. gaining experience ☐ volunteer or intern at an animal shelter, rescue organization, or veterinary clinic. ☐ shadow a veterinary social worker to gain real world insights into the profession. ☐ participate in community outreach programs focused on social work with animals. ☐ attend workshops or webinars on animal assisted therapy social work to broaden your knowledge. building connections ☐ join the international association of veterinary social work to network with professionals and stay updated on industry trends. ☐ attend conferences and events focused on veterinary social work and animal welfare. ☐ connect with peers, mentors, and educators in the field for advice and guidance. career preparation ☐ create a strong resume highlighting your experience with animals, counseling, and advocacy. ☐ search for veterinary social work jobs and identify the roles that align with your expertise. ☐ prepare for interviews by studying common challenges and rewards in social work with animals. ☐ research salary expectations for veterinary social workers to negotiate confidently. ongoing professional development ☐ stay current on trends in animal assisted social work and therapy techniques. ☐ continue networking with professionals in the field to open doors to new opportunities. ☐ explore advanced certifications or degrees to further specialize and grow your career. pro tip: keep this checklist handy and revisit it regularly to track your progress and adjust your goals as needed. consistent effort and a clear plan will help you achieve success in veterinary social work. by following this checklist, you’ll be well equipped to navigate the journey into veterinary social work and build a fulfilling career that benefits both people and animals. don’t miss: designed for small, mid, and large social work organizations: best all in one social work software for social workers and case managers. download the pdf checklist simplify your journey into veterinary social work and take the guesswork out of your next steps! we’ve created a free, downloadable pdf checklist that organizes all the tasks and milestones you need to achieve your goals. this handy checklist includes: 📥 click here to download your free pdf checklist now! take the first step toward your dream career in veterinary social work today   your future self (and the animals you’ll help) will thank you! pro tip: stay proactive by joining professional organizations like the international association of veterinary social work to gain access to valuable resources, networking opportunities, and the latest industry updates. being part of a professional community can help you advance your career and connect with like minded individuals. pro tip: diversify your experience by volunteering in various settings, such as animal shelters, veterinary clinics, and therapy programs. hands on experience not only builds your skills but also strengthens your resume, making you a standout candidate for veterinary social work jobs. conclusion: the future of veterinary social work the field of veterinary social work is on the rise, offering a unique opportunity to make a meaningful difference in the lives of both people and animals. as awareness of the human animal bond continues to grow, so does the demand for skilled professionals who can navigate the emotional, social, and ethical challenges in this interdisciplinary field. with the expansion of veterinary social work programs, certifications, and career opportunities, the future is bright for those passionate about social work with animals. whether you’re drawn to animal assisted social work, pet loss counseling, or advocating for animal welfare, this career offers countless ways to make a lasting impact. by taking the steps outlined in this guide, you’ll be well equipped to excel in this rewarding profession. from earning your veterinary social work certificate to gaining hands on experience, every action you take brings you closer to a fulfilling career that bridges the gap between human and animal care. now is the time to embrace this growing field, contribute to the well being of both humans and animals, and help shape the future of veterinary social work. the possibilities are endless   start your journey today! veterinary social work is more than a career   it’s a calling that bridges the gap between animal care and human well being. with the growing recognition of the field, now is the time to take the leap into this rewarding profession. whether you’re just starting or seeking to advance, there’s a place for you in veterinary social work. frequently asked questions (faqs) what is veterinary social work, and how is it different from traditional social work? veterinary social work is a specialized field focusing on the intersection of social work and animal care, providing support to pet owners, veterinarians, and animals in need.how can i become a veterinary social worker? you can pursue a master of social work (msw) degree, complete a veterinary social work certificate program, and gain hands on experience in animal assisted social work.what does a veterinary social worker do daily? they provide counseling for pet loss, assist in animal assisted therapy, advocate for animal welfare, and collaborate with veterinary professionals to support clients.how much does a veterinary social worker earn? salaries for social work veterinaries typically range from $40,000 to $70,000 annually, depending on location, education, and experience level.are there online programs for veterinary social work certifications? yes, many institutions offer veterinary social work certificate programs online, making it easier for aspiring professionals to access training. {"@context":"https://schema.org","@type":"faqpage","mainentity":[{"@type":"question","name":"what is veterinary social work, and how is it different from traditional social work?","acceptedanswer":{"@type":"answer","text":"veterinary social work is a specialized field focusing on the intersection of social work and animal care, providing support to pet owners, veterinarians, and animals in need."}},{"@type":"question","name":"how can i become a veterinary social worker?","acceptedanswer":{"@type":"answer","text":"you can pursue a master of social work (msw) degree, complete a veterinary social work certificate program, and gain hands on experience in animal assisted social work."}},{"@type":"question","name":"what does a veterinary social worker do daily?","acceptedanswer":{"@type":"answer","text":"they provide counseling for pet loss, assist in animal assisted therapy, advocate for animal welfare, and collaborate with veterinary professionals to support clients."}},{"@type":"question","name":"how much does a veterinary social worker earn?","acceptedanswer":{"@type":"answer","text":"salaries for social work veterinaries typically range from $40,000 to $70,000 annually, depending on location, education, and experience level."}},{"@type":"question","name":"are there online programs for veterinary social work certifications?","acceptedanswer":{"@type":"answer","text":"yes, many institutions offer veterinary social work certificate programs online, making it easier for aspiring professionals to access training."}}]} veterinary social work is a specialized field focusing on the intersection of social work and animal care, providing support to pet owners, veterinarians, and animals in need. you can pursue a master of social work (msw) degree, complete a veterinary social work certificate program, and gain hands on experience in animal assisted social work. they provide counseling for pet loss, assist in animal assisted therapy, advocate for animal welfare, and collaborate with veterinary professionals to support clients. salaries for social work veterinaries typically range from $40,000 to $70,000 annually, depending on location, education, and experience level. yes, many institutions offer veterinary social work certificate programs online, making it easier for aspiring professionals to access training. note: content on this website (socialworkportal.com) is copyrighted and protected under applicable copyright laws. unauthorized reproduction, distribution, or use of any content from the website, without explicit written permission, is strictly prohibited. read: terms of use.social work portal disclaimer: social work portal is not a social work agency and we do not refer social workers. this web site is provided for educational and informational purposes only and does not constitute providing medical advice or professional social and healthcare services. the information provided should not be used for diagnosing or treating a health problem or disease, and those seeking personal medical advice should consult with ... read our full disclaimer here: social work portal disclaimer. about social work portal website disclaimer terms of use | privacy policies copyright © 2022 2025. social work portal, all rights reserved

though still rare, social workers in animal hospitals are growing in their ranks. your email address will not be published. required fields are marked * comment * name * email * website save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time i comment.

you are accessing a machine readable page. in order to be human readable, please install an rss reader. all articles published by mdpi are made immediately available worldwide under an open access license. no special permission is required to reuse all or part of the article published by mdpi, including figures and tables. for articles published under an open access creative common cc by license, any part of the article may be reused without permission provided that the original article is clearly cited. for more information, please refer to https://www.mdpi.com/openaccess. feature papers represent the most advanced research with significant potential for high impact in the field. a feature paper should be a substantial original article that involves several techniques or approaches, provides an outlook for future research directions and describes possible research applications. feature papers are submitted upon individual invitation or recommendation by the scientific editors and must receive positive feedback from the reviewers. editor’s choice articles are based on recommendations by the scientific editors of mdpi journals from around the world. editors select a small number of articles recently published in the journal that they believe will be particularly interesting to readers, or important in the respective research area. the aim is to provide a snapshot of some of the most exciting work published in the various research areas of the journal. original submission date received: . find support for a specific problem in the support section of our website. please let us know what you think of our products and services. visit our dedicated information section to learn more about mdpi. vincent, a.; rauktis, m.e.; maxwell, l.; knudsen, e. the role and scope of practice of veterinary social workers in animal shelters. pets 2025, 2, 6. https://doi.org/10.3390/pets2010006 vincent a, rauktis me, maxwell l, knudsen e. the role and scope of practice of veterinary social workers in animal shelters. pets. 2025; 2(1):6. https://doi.org/10.3390/pets2010006 vincent, aviva, mary elizabeth rauktis, laurie maxwell, and elizabeth knudsen. 2025. "the role and scope of practice of veterinary social workers in animal shelters" pets 2, no. 1: 6. https://doi.org/10.3390/pets2010006 vincent, a., rauktis, m. e., maxwell, l., & knudsen, e. (2025). the role and scope of practice of veterinary social workers in animal shelters. pets, 2(1), 6. https://doi.org/10.3390/pets2010006 vincent, a.; rauktis, m.e.; maxwell, l.; knudsen, e. the role and scope of practice of veterinary social workers in animal shelters. pets 2025, 2, 6. https://doi.org/10.3390/pets2010006 vincent a, rauktis me, maxwell l, knudsen e. the role and scope of practice of veterinary social workers in animal shelters. pets. 2025; 2(1):6. https://doi.org/10.3390/pets2010006 vincent, aviva, mary elizabeth rauktis, laurie maxwell, and elizabeth knudsen. 2025. "the role and scope of practice of veterinary social workers in animal shelters" pets 2, no. 1: 6. https://doi.org/10.3390/pets2010006 vincent, a., rauktis, m. e., maxwell, l., & knudsen, e. (2025). the role and scope of practice of veterinary social workers in animal shelters. pets, 2(1), 6. https://doi.org/10.3390/pets2010006
this post was originally published on this site amy conroy sat alone in a veterinary exam room, hands clutching a water bottle, eyes blinking back tears. her 16 year old cat, leisel, had been having trouble breathing. now, she was waiting for an update. the door opened, and laurie maxwell came in. ms. maxwell works for medvet, a 24 hour emergency veterinary hospital in chicago. but when she took a seat opposite ms. conroy on a monday evening in may, she explained that she wasn’t there for the cat. she was there for ms. conroy. ms. maxwell is a veterinary social worker, a job in a little known corner of the therapy world that focuses on easing the stress, worry and grief that can arise when a pet needs medical care. pets no longer exist at the periphery of the human family   to take one example, a survey in 2022 found that almost half of americans sleep with an animal in their bed. as that relationship has intensified, so has the stress when something goes wrong. those emotions can spill over at animal hospitals, where social workers can help pet owners work through difficult choices, such as whether to euthanize a pet or whether they can afford to pay thousands of dollars for their care. though still rare, social workers in animal hospitals are growing in their ranks. large chains, like vca, are beginning to employ them, as are major academic veterinary hospitals. the service is typically offered for free. about 175 people have earned a certification in veterinary social work from the university of tennessee, knoxville, which is a center for the field.

 supported by pets were once dismissed as trivial scientific subjects. today, companion animal science is hot. by emily anthes though still rare, social workers in animal hospitals are growing in their ranks. by katie thomas and jamie kelter davis transfusions have become an important part of veterinary medicine, but cat and dog blood is not always easy to come by. by emily anthes people have grown more attached to their pets   and more willing to spend money on them   turning animal medicine into a high tech industry worth billions.