Right now, the suicide rate for veterinarians is four times higher than the average person. Please help us reverse this trend by signing our petition to lobby for government policy and industry change. Together we can better support our vet professionals with more preventative mental health support.
Thank you to those that have signed the petition.
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Dr. Sophie Putland was a daughter, a sister, a friend, and a beloved vet, who tragically took her own life in September 2021. The pressure of the veterinary profession, including client abuse, became overwhelming for her.
Family and friends established Sophie’s Legacy to honour her memory and advocate for change within the industry. We are determined to see all veterinary staff thrive. Happy vets equals happy pets too, right?
Our cause has resonated worldwide, and we believe we are already making a difference.
Learn moreLike us, you love animals and are grateful for the wonderful people who care for them.
Support them by understanding the issues they face, dispelling the myths, and spreading our message far and wide.
We know your calling is to care but carrying the load isn’t always easy.
Having access to helpful tools and training is important and we’ve gathered some for you.
Let us share some love.
There are plenty of ways to help us. People have run marathons, staged events, donated sales – even sold nude calendars!
We’d love you in our community.
We’re stronger together.
Pet ownership in Australia has reached a record 69% which has skyrocketed since the COVID-19 pandemic
That's one vet for every 2,026 pets, and that doesn't include horses, wildlife and livestock.
There are 15,000 vets in Australia to look after pets.
And many hundreds more vets will be needed over the next few years.
We have launched a National Education Campaign to honour Sophie and help stem the shocking suicide rate among veterinarians.
The “We’re Only Human” campaign asks pet and animal owners to make the promise to be kind and respectful and to understand the massive pressures impacting veterinary staff.
Sophie’s Legacy and Lincoln Institute of Veterinary Business are proud to announce their official partnership, aimed at improving the mental wellbeing and fulfillment of staff in veterinary practices.
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To those who have started a campaign, your dedication inspires us all. You’ve turned ideas into action and given people a way to support causes that matter.
And to every donor, your contributions, big and small, have made a real impact. Your kindness fuels these campaigns and helps bring hope, support, and change to those in need.
Together, we are stronger. Together, we make a difference.
Our Campaigns
Now I know better, I do better, and explain to others.
Thank you for setting Sophie’s Legacy up and speaking up for veterinarians who deserve better.
Sophie’s Legacy is a true beacon of hope and help.