Reflecting on the final year of high school, when college plans were solidified, one might recall a shift in behavior from disciplined study to a more relaxed approach. This phenomenon, widely known as 'senioritis' among students nearing graduation, often reshapes an individual's mindset, unless they are intensely driven by competitive ambitions.
Now, consider a similar evolution among veterinarians, particularly those I refer to as 'volunteer veterinarians.' This group often includes semi-retired individuals, those with substantial financial security, or professionals whose combined income or independent wealth frees them from the sole pursuit of monetary gain. These veterinarians essentially 'volunteer' their expertise, meaning they can be more selective about their commitments.
This ability to choose their engagements grants them significant freedom. They are not bound by specific institutional loyalties, nor are they compelled to endure undesirable working conditions or unreasonable employers. This autonomy often leads to a state of 'veterinary senioritis.' They can opt out of offensive client interactions, avoid workplace drama, and disregard unprofessional conduct, focusing instead on patient care, well-behaved clients, and a congenial work environment.
Many veterinarians cherish this newfound professional liberty, understanding that a long career can eventually lead to this privileged position. This freedom to walk away from uncomfortable situations is profoundly invigorating and empowering. As Dr. Seuss aptly put it, one can choose not to venture down certain paths. This form of voluntary practice, or 'veterinary senioritis,' explains the growing appeal of relief veterinary work. The power to decline engagements acts as a potent remedy for many professional ailments. Independent-minded veterinarians, often through challenging experiences, discover that relief work offers a better fit than a single, fixed practice, allowing them to avoid undesirable interactions and maintain control over their work-life balance.
Structural shifts within the veterinary profession are significant drivers of this trend. For instance, practice ownership has become increasingly rare; unlike past generations where it was almost an expectation, few new graduates today envision owning a practice. While owning a practice offers a sense of control and purpose, which can build stress tolerance, relief veterinarians can achieve a similar sense of control by choosing their assignments. Furthermore, the profession has become highly mobile, with a constant demand for veterinarians, making it easier for individuals to change roles or locations. The increasing uniformity in veterinary practice styles also contributes to this, as finding a perfect 'forever home' becomes more challenging, leading many to constantly seek new freedoms. Finally, mental health concerns play a crucial role; like high school seniors, veterinarians experiencing 'senioritis' can either embrace dignified autonomy or become somewhat disengaged. The ultimate goal for many is to find a stable, comfortable middle ground in a constantly evolving profession, balancing the desire for control with the ability to adapt, choosing a path that aligns with their values and well-being, even if it's not always easy to achieve.