In the dynamic world of veterinary medicine, empowerment is not just a buzzword; it is a fundamental principle driving positive change. From fostering inclusive environments within veterinary teams to championing businesses owned by women in the industry, companies like Empowering Veterinary Teams (EVT) are among those at the forefront of this transformative movement.
Empowering Veterinary Teams
EVT is creating positive changes within the veterinary industry, focusing on growth and development, utilizing all team members’ skills, and establishing an inclusive culture to produce high-functioning teams. Founded on the belief that empowered teams lead to exceptional patient care, EVT is meeting veterinary professionals where they are with what they need worldwide.
Growth and development
EVT’s all-inclusive growth and development packages cover everything from how your team learns and communicates to what each role should be responsible for; these tools empower team members to excel and contribute to the success of their practices. These offerings are multimodal and designed to enhance the skills and knowledge of veterinary teams. EVT’s goal is to ensure all team members contribute at their highest ability and potential to combat burnout.
Inspiration and motivation
People are the heart of EVT’s mission, and they believe that no one is “just” anything. EVT knows that most empowerment comes from within, and provides the resources, support, and guidance to inspire teams the company works with. With veterinary medicine being a historically hierarchical industry, EVT believes that highlighting the strengths of the support team starts to break down the hierarchy and allows all team members to be heard.
Advocacy and representation
Advocacy and the fight to improve inclusion of underrepresented communities in veterinary medicine is fundamental to improving team culture, retention, and the profession. EVT advocates for the well-being and advancement of all veterinary professionals. EVT champions full utilization of the support teams, including veterinary technicians, assistants, and client service representatives, to improve overall team efficiency and culture. By amplifying diverse voices and championing inclusivity, EVT aims to create a more equitable and supportive environment within the veterinary industry.
Empowering collaboration
The impact of EVT and businesses owned by women in veterinary medicine is undeniable. Together, these entities are driving innovation, fostering inclusivity, and empowering veterinary professionals to reach their full potential.
Collaborative partnerships
Businesses owned by women, such as EVT, often collaborate on various initiatives, leveraging their respective strengths to enact positive change. Whether they involve hosting joint events, codeveloping programs, or advocating for policy changes, these partnerships amplify their impact and benefit the entire veterinary community.
Here are some, but certainly not all, veterinary businesses owned by women:
- BlackDVM Network: (Tierra Price, DVM, MPH)
- BlendVET:(Niccole Bruno, DVM)
- First Opinion Veterinary Ultrasound: (Camilla Edwards, DVM, CERTAVP, MRCVS)
- Lap of Love: (Dani McVety-Leinen, DVM; and Mary Gardner, DVM)
- MentorVet: (Addie Reinhard, DVM, MS)
- Pawsibilities: (Valerie Marcano, DVM, PhD, DACPV)
- PetFolk: (Audrey Wystrach, DVM)
- Ready, Vet, Go: (Dani Rabwin, DVM)
- Relief Rover: (Cindy Trice, DVM)
- Vetahead: (Laila Proença, MV, DVM, PhD, DACZM)
- Vet Empowered: (Katie Ford, BVSC, CERTAVP[SAM], PGCERT , PRODIP [CBT], MRCVS, MCMA; and Claire Grigson, BVM&sS, MRCVS, AACP)
Mentorship and support
Mentorship is a powerful tool for professional development, and EVT and other businesses owned by women are committed to nurturing the next generation of veterinary leaders. Through mentorship programs such as those offered by MentorVet, seasoned professionals provide education, guidance, support, and encouragement to aspiring veterinarians and entrepreneurs, clearing a path for future success.
Advocacy and empowerment
By advocating for diversity, equity, inclusion, and belonging, EVT and businesses owned by women, such as blendVET and Pawsibilities Vet Med, empower veterinary professionals from all backgrounds to thrive. Through combined efforts, these companies challenge systemic barriers, dismantle stereotypes, and create a more equitable and supportive environment for all members of the veterinary community.
Businesses owned by women
With a keen focus on innovation, compassion, and community engagement, businesses run by women are driving positive change in animal health care.
Innovation and entrepreneurship
Veterinary businesses owned by women are at the forefront of innovation, leveraging technology and cutting-edge practices to improve patient care. From mobile clinics to telemedicine platforms, these entrepreneurs are reimagining traditional models of veterinary care and making them more accessible and convenient for pet owners. In the United Kingdom, VetCT brought radiology to the world of telemedicine, dramatically improving access to world-class radiologists.
Compassionate care
Compassion is a cornerstone of veterinary medicine, and businesses owned by women exemplify this ethos. With a deep understanding of the bond between humans and animals, these businesses prioritize compassionate care, ensuring that every patient receives the attention and support they deserve. For example, Lap of Love has changed the approach to end-of-life care by focusing on improving quality of life of for all pets and the families that care for them.
Community impact
Veterinary businesses owned by women play a crucial role in their communities, not only as health care providers but also as advocates for animal welfare. Through outreach programs, educational initiatives, and partnerships with local organizations, these businesses make a meaningful difference in the lives of pets and their owners. For example, Pawsibilities created a pipeline that supports members of underrepresented communities in developing careers in veterinary medicine.
Conclusion
Through companies like EVT and the rise of businesses owned by women, the veterinary community is embracing innovation, compassion, and collaboration. As we continue to champion inclusivity, advocate for change, and empower one another, we pave the way for a more vibrant, resilient, and compassionate future for animals and the humans who care for them.
Alyssa Mages, BS, CVT, is the chief visionary officer of Empowering Veterinary Teams (EVT), where she oversees the content development, clinical skills training, and overall vision of the company. She cofounded EVT to provide training programs, materials & coaching/learning opportunities for veterinary practices, as well as training directives for veterinary industry service providers. EVT consists of veterinary professionals, industry leaders & coaches. Mages graduated from the University of Rhode Island with a BS in marine biology, attained an AS in veterinary technology from Manor College and added CVT to her credentials.
