Many veterinary professionals struggle with a quiet but exhausting problem: absentee guilt. Whether it’s calling out sick, taking a vacation, or stepping away for personal time, being “off” rarely feels fully off. In this episode of The Veterinary Viewfinder, Dr. Ernie Ward and  Beckie Mossor, MPA, RVT, dig into why stepping away from the clinic can feel so uncomfortable—and why that discomfort matters.

They unpack how guilt becomes normalized in veterinary culture, how leadership behaviors shape expectations around availability, and why clinics that rely too heavily on a single person are setting everyone up for stress. 

The conversation covers sick days, establishing (and maintaining) personal boundaries while on vacation, handling unexpected after-hours texts, and the long-term risks of building practice systems that break down when a certain team member is absent.

This episode offers a practical perspective for veterinarians, technicians, managers, and owners who want healthier boundaries without sacrificing patient care or team trust. The takeaway is clear: protecting time off isn’t selfish, it’s necessary for sustainability, safety, and staying in the profession long term.

In this episode of The Veterinary Viewfinder, Dr. Ernie Ward and Beckie Mosser, RVT, MPA, dive into the transformative world of veterinary mentorship with the inspiring founder of MentorVet, Dr. Addie Reinhard and Director of Learning and Development,  Mariel Hendricks, RVTg. 

MentorVet is tackling the profession’s toughest challenges—burnout, isolation, and career uncertainty—by providing evidence-based mentorship programs tailored for veterinarians, technicians, and other veterinary professionals.

Learn how MentorVet’s innovative peer support groups, mentorship matching, and mental health resources are making a tangible impact on well-being and career longevity. Whether you're an early-career vet, a seasoned practice manager, or a technician seeking guidance, this conversation will offer practical insights into navigating career stressors and thriving in veterinary medicine.

Self-care is crucial for a thriving veterinary career, yet everyday challenges often hinder our pursuit of well-being. This week on the Veterinary Viewfinder, we delve into some of the most common reasons people fail to adhere to self-care practices: too little time, money, and ability to do it. Our special return guest is  Rebecca Newman, a certified veterinary technician and well-being expert. Rebecca shares strategies to overcome self-imposed barriers, helping you kickstart your wellness journey. Join Dr. Ernie Ward and Beckie Mosser, RVT, MPA, as they explore practical tips for achieving a balanced, healthy life in the demanding world of veterinary medicine.