Veterinary Appreciation Day Ideas

Last Updated on May 6, 2021 by Holly Anne Dustin

Veterinary Appreciation Day was started in 2015 by Trupanion Pet Insurance Company.  It gives us a chance to show our appreciation for the veterinarians that work hard to take care of our cats.

“Our hope is that pet owners will thank their veterinary team throughout the year. But Veterinary Appreciation Day offers the animal-loving community the opportunity to come together on a single day to show their appreciation to the compassionate veterinary professionals dedicated to helping their pets live the happiest, healthiest lives possible.”  – Darryl Rawlings, Trupanion founder and CEO.

Why Honor Your Veterinarian:

The most obvious reason is that your veterinarian takes care of your furry family members. What could be more important than helping you keep your cats healthy and happy?

It’s an enormous job.

Your vets and their staff work long hours, giving up time with their own family and furbabies, to take care of yours. Someone will be there to take the call if your cat gets sick in the middle of the night.

It’s a hard job.

It takes a huge heart, and it can be heartbreaking. Your vet is the one there to help you through when your cat goes to the Bridge. They deal with sick animals and animals in pain all day. They sometimes have to make hard choices about pet care because of a pet parent’s financial well-being. Not everyone is a respectful client.

Compassion fatigue is a genuine phenomenon. Suicide and depression are epidemic in the veterinary community.

They are professionals.

Veterinarians are one of the most trusted professionals. They are professionals, just like your doctor is. Or your lawyer or accountant. They’ve put in a lot of time, money, and debt into their education and getting their practice going.

Veterinarians keep studying to stay on top of all the continuing advances in vet care. All to keep your cat healthy and happy.

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Veterinary Appreciation Day Ideas

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There are a lot of things you can do to thank your veterinarian. It doesn’t have to be anything big. Just show your vet clinic or animal hospital how much the care they give your furbaby means to you.

Send a handwritten note or a card. Because really, who snail mails notes anymore? Include a picture of your happy kitties to make it even more personal and special.

Add gift cards. Coffee cards to a cafe near the office. A gift card to a restaurant so the staff can go out for a meal. If you have a close relationship with your vet, a gift card for a massage or some other self-care experience would be nice.

You can never go wrong with food items. Drop off coffee and donuts. Send an edible arrangement of chocolates, cookies, or fruit. Make cookies and bring them in.

Are you crafty? Make a handmade tin or mason jar of homemade treats.

Give a small gift like this key chain.  I found this picture that you can personalize for your veterinarian’s office. I think it is adorable. You can add animals to suit your vet’s office.

Donate. Does your vet clinic have an emergency fund for patients in need? Make a thank you donation. If your vet works with a rescue or shelter, give to the rescue in the vet’s honor.

Use your social media. Post positive reviews on Facebook, Yelp, Nextdoor etc. Send a shout out of appreciation on Facebook or Instagram. Tag the clinic and the hashtag #thankaveterinarian.

Don’t Make it a One Day Affair

Don’t wait until Veterinary Appreciation Day to show your gratitude. You can show your appreciation for the work your veterinarian does every time you go for a visit.

• Show up to your appointment on time. If you must cancel, give at least 24 hours notice.
• Follow office policies (bring your cat in a carrier not in a pillowcase for example.)
• Bring any necessary paperwork or samples and have your questions prepared.
• Communicate truthfully with the staff. They can’t help you if you don’t.
• Don’t be a diva. Your pet is not the only cat they will see that day. They have a schedule to keep.
• Respect your vet’s knowledge. Trust his or her advice. Hopefully, you have found a vet you trust. If you haven’t, find a new vet. It is important that you have a friendly working relationship with your vet. I need someone who will listen to me and answer questions. But I have to listen to the answers and advice too.

I hope these Veterinary Appreciation Day ideas help you thank your vet. It is important to show our appreciation for the veterinary team that do an outstanding job taking care of your special cat.