We are committed to supporting the animal health profession

Veterinarians, veterinary nurses, and animal health professionals play a vital role in the wellbeing of our communities yet their contributions sometimes go unrecognised. Through our ongoing initiatives, we aim to elevate the visibility and appreciation of these dedicated individuals, championing their work and advocating for a more sustainable and supported future for the profession.

Highlighting the value of our vet teams

Becoming an animal health professional often starts as a cherished childhood dream – sparked by a deep love for animals. For many, that dream becomes a rewarding reality, one that transforms the lives of both animals and their human companions.

But this career path also demands resilience and dedication. It’s a role that’s often misunderstood, and there’s a real need to raise public awareness about the vital contribution animal health professionals make to New Zealand’s wellbeing.

To shine a light on these hidden heroes, we created a video where pet owners were challenged to guess the profession behind some surprising and essential responsibilities.

RESOURCES FOR VET CLINICS

If you would like to share this video, you can watch and download from these links (available in two lengths):

90 seconds | 3 minutes 40 seconds

What do Kiwis really think about animal health?

A new survey shows that while 97% of New Zealanders value the care provided by their vet teams, far fewer understand the full extent of their work.

Beyond clinical care, veterinary professionals support public health, respond to emergencies, advise on farms, shape animal welfare policy and more.

Our research highlights how much these teams are trusted, but also how often their wider contributions go unseen. It is time to recognise and celebrate everything they do.

Explore the survey findings [here](/content/au/nz-value-your-vet-team-survey-results "NZ Survey Results"/index.html).

Rethinking feline care: Carterton nurse recognised for clinical excellence

Veterinary nurses play a key role in the animal health sector, but more support is needed to ensure they are respected and appropriately recognised for the important work they do and provided with opportunities to grow. We are proud to support the NZVNA in this space with the Boehringer Ingelheim Clinical Excellence Award, read more.

Aoife Everton, the recipient of the 2026 Boehringer Ingelheim Clinical Excellence Award

Taking Animal Health Forward – the whitepaper

70% of New Zealand veterinary professionals feel they are underappreciated by the public. This is one of several challenges facing the animal health sector, according to a survey of over 600 professionals.

In partnership with the NZVA and NZVNA, we drafted a whitepaper to help build a more sustainable future for the sector. Key issues include staffing, training, workplace wellbeing, and better support for veterinary nurses.

Solving these challenges requires collective effort, both from within the industry itself, and with the support of government. By working together, we can create a thriving animal health sector that benefits all New Zealanders.

Download the whitepaper to learn more.

NZ-MSP-0023-2025

Downloads

[Download](/content/au/about-us/sustainable-development/more-potential/pdf/letsplayguesstheprofession "Download"/index.html)

Let's Play: Guess the profession

Links to download the video

[Download](/content/au/about-us/sustainable-development/more-potential/pdf/boehringer-taking-animal-health-forward-whitepaper "Download"/index.html)

Taking Animal Health Forward: Whitepaper

Download for industry insights, recommendations and case studies.