A mental health crisis in the veterinary industry is costing lives. We’re striving to save them.

We (Kate, Garry, Tom, and Oliver) established Sophie’s Legacy, now a registered charity, following the death of our much-loved daughter and sister, Dr Sophie Putland.

Sophie took her own life at age 33 on September 4th, 2021, while working as a vet in Melbourne. She was working in a profession she loved and was passionate about. But the stress that came with it took its toll.

Over the last three decades the rate of suicide in this profession has steadily increased with research confirming that veterinarians are four times more likely to die by suicide than the general population, and two times more likely than any other health professional.

Our first campaign was to conduct a survey and gain industry insights. It attracted responses from almost 600 vets and staff in 10 days, many of whom were aged under 35. The respondents fearlessly and frankly outlined the critical issues facing the industry including client abuse, excessive workloads and hours, and vet and staff shortages.

Via our active social media accounts, we now receive correspondence from people the worldover. We know the reality of your experience and are speaking out for you.

Change is possible.