Zoetis supporting the mental health of veterinarians, practice staff and nurses, as they work with their communities.
Zoetis, the leading animal health business, has reached its goal of raising $100,000 for the Beyond Blue Support Service to support mental health initiatives and reduce stigma around mental illness in the veterinary industry. Zoetis has a long-standing commitment to supporting the mental health of veterinarians, practice staff and nurses, as they work with their communities.
Zoetis & Beyond Blue – partnering since 2016
Zoetis started partnering with Beyond Blue in 2016, and since then, has raised $900,000 for Beyond Blue by donating $5 from each sale of the company’s vaccines and parasiticides products.
“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.”
– Lance Williams, Zoetis Senior Vice President, Australia and New Zealand,
The handover of the donation by Lance Williams, was attended by key figures including Beyond Blue Chair Linda Dessau AC CVO, former Governor of Victoria (2015-2023) and Commander of the Royal Victorian Order, and Georgie Harman, CEO of Beyond Blue. Also present were Fred Schwenke, Business Unit Director, Zoetis, Lauren Rowston, Business Unit Director, Zoetis, and Mark Willis Marketing Manager, Livestock at Zoetis.
Funds raised play a vital role in sustaining Beyond Blue’s 24/7 mental health support services
Factors such as poor work-life balance, high occupational conflict, emotional and moral challenges, and financial stressors are just a few of the contributing factors leading to burnout, ill health and a deterioration of wellbeing for Australian veterinarians and their nursing staff. The funds raised play a vital role in sustaining Beyond Blue’s 24/7 mental health support services, which include immediate counselling, advice, and referrals. To date, thanks to Zoetis’s donation, more than 15,500 people have been able to get the support they need through the service.
“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. Of course, this can take a toll on vets’ mental health. 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 Luke Martin, Clinical Psychologist and Clinical Spokesperson, Beyond Blue.
Beyond Blue’s Support Service has proven to be a lifeline for many. Data shows that after contacting Beyond Blue, individuals often feel more understood, less distressed, and better equipped to manage their mental health problems. This year’s donation from Zoetis will allow Beyond Blue to continue to be there for those in the veterinary industry so they can access the support they need, whether it be via phone, webchat, or online forums.
Dr Luke Martin concludes, “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.”
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
About Zoetis
As the world’s leading animal health company, Zoetis is driven by a singular purpose: to nurture our world and humankind by advancing care for animals. After innovating ways to predict, prevent, detect, and treat animal illness for more than 70 years, Zoetis continues to stand by those raising and caring for animals worldwide – from veterinarians and pet owners to livestock farmers and ranchers. The company’s leading portfolio and pipeline of medicines, vaccines, diagnostics and technologies make a difference in over 100 countries. A Fortune 500 company, Zoetis generated revenue of $8.5 billion in 2023 with approximately 14,100 employees. For more information, visit www.zoetis.com.
About Beyond Blue
Beyond Blue is an independent, not-for-profit organisation working to reduce the impact of anxiety and depression in Australia. Beyond Blue provides information and support to help everyone achieve their best possible mental health, regardless of age, background and wherever they live. Beyond Blue works to give everyone in Australia the confidence to speak openly about anxiety, depression and suicide – both to seek support when they need it and to check in with those close to them – and tackle prejudice and discrimination wherever they exist. Beyond Blue’s tools, resources and services create mentally healthy environments. Through dedicated programs, Beyond Blue supports schools, universities, workplaces and community organisations to protect and promote good mental health.
