Luxembourg veterinarians ask for respect and solidarity

The Association of Luxembourg Veterinarians (AMVL) has sounded the alarm: the work of animal health professionals is increasingly accompanied by a wave of hostility, unfounded criticism and threats - especially on social media. According to the AMVL, the increase in personal attacks, insults and even physical intimidation is having a devastating effect on the mental health of workers and undermining the quality of veterinary care in the country.

Staff working around the clock in clinics and on-call services are particularly vulnerable. The pressure from pet owners is growing: they want quick decisions, perfect results and instant feedback. But when it comes to complex diagnoses and non-obvious symptoms, every mistake - even professionally justified ones - becomes an object of public anger.

The Association emphasises that veterinarians work on the basis of evidence-based medicine and professional ethics, not emotion. However, the constant fear of online reputation and the danger of being at the centre of 'bullying' prevents professionals from focusing on medical substance and weakens their confidence in complex cases.

Compounding the problem is the fact that the sector is already suffering from a staffing shortage. According to AMVL data, the suicide rate among veterinarians is well above the population average. Young professionals are increasingly avoiding the profession due to overload and lack of appreciation from society.

The crisis is particularly acute in emergency and night veterinary services. There are already not enough clinics on duty at night in the country, and if the psychological pressure is not reduced, the system may simply not be able to cope.

Against the backdrop of increasing attention to animal welfare and high expectations of veterinary services, AMVL calls for a change in public discourse. Instead of accusations on Facebook and complaints to the press, the association offers an open dialogue with veterinarians - questions, clarifications, clarifications, but not hostility.

AMVL President, Dr Malou Blasen, emphasises that, as in human medicine, veterinary medicine is not infallible. Correct diagnosis and effective treatment require not only knowledge and equipment, but also time, emotional resources and trust. Only with mutual respect can the level of veterinary care that the public rightfully expects be maintained.