Finding My Way Back: A Veterinarian's Fresh Start at Sploot
Three months ago, I was ready to walk away from clinical practice entirely. After eight years as a veterinarian, the burnout was overwhelming—endless 12-hour days that stretched even longer, chronically understaffed clinics, missing family events, and the constant pressure to squeeze in more appointments with less support.
What was once a calling had become a daily struggle just to get through my shift. I loved the animals and the medicine, but the system was breaking me.
When a former colleague suggested Sploot Vets, claiming "it's different here," I was skeptical. I'd heard promises about work-life balance before. But from my very first interview, I realized this wasn't just marketing talk.
The Immediate Difference at Sploot
A Schedule That Respects My Life: Instead of unpredictable 60+ hour weeks, I now work 3-4 shifts per week with clear start and end times. I have multiple days off to recharge and reconnect with my family and hobbies.
Proper Support Systems: Sploot's staffing model ensures I have the technical and administrative support needed to focus on medicine rather than paperwork. The added structure and thoughtfulness of the workflow have made it easier to be more present with patients instead of always feeling rushed.
Modern Tools That Work: From AI-powered scribe tools that cut down on time spend on medical records, to advanced surgical equipment and streamlined communication platforms, the technology at Sploot is designed to support our work—not make it harder—and genuinely helps me focus more on patient care.
Professional Respect: I have input on medical protocols and standards. My expertise is valued, and evidence-based medicine is prioritized over rigid, outdated procedures or unnecessary upselling.
Growth Without Burnout: Continuing education is genuinely supported with both time and funding. There's a clear path for advancement for those interested, but no pressure to take on additional responsibilities outside of the scope of medicine.
Fair Compensation: Sploot's compensation model includes competitive salary, no negative accrual, comprehensive benefits, 401(k) matching, and even care benefits for my own pets—acknowledging the true value of our expertise and education.
The Result?
Six months into my role at Sploot, I've rediscovered why I became a veterinarian. I'm practicing better medicine because I have the time and support to be thorough. I can take the time to properly educate clients rather than rushing through appointments.
Most importantly, I've found joy in my work again. The challenging days no longer break me because they're balanced with adequate rest and support.
For veterinarians feeling the burnout that has become epidemic in our profession: it doesn't have to be this way. Places like Sploot are proving there's a model for veterinary medicine that respects both the needs of patients and the humanity of practitioners.
After years of feeling like I had to choose between being a good doctor and having a life outside work, I've finally found a practice where I can be both.
