September 2025
In this VETgirl online veterinary continuing education blog, Kali Marsh, RVT, Compliance Manager with Certified Safety Training details methods of preventing and managing workplace violence or aggression in the veterinary industry. Its undeniable that the veterinary profession is one of the most rewarding professions but it does present with unique challenges. High-stress situations coupled with strong emotions surrounding the healthcare of pets can create tension between colleagues and with pet owners. Read below to learn ways to identify, mitigate and prevent workplace violence!

Preventing Workplace Violence in the Veterinary Industry

Kali Marsh, RVT, Compliance Manager with Certified Safety Training

Veterinary medicine is one of the most rewarding professions—but it also comes with unique challenges. Long hours, high-stress situations, emotional conversations with clients, and difficult medical decisions can create tension in the workplace. Unfortunately, this can sometimes escalate into workplace violence or aggression, posing risks to both staff and clients.


By taking proactive steps, veterinary practices can build a culture of safety, reduce risks, and protect their teams.

The U.S. Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) defines workplace violence as any act or threat of physical violence, harassment, intimidation, or other threatening disruptive behavior that occurs at the work site.

In veterinary settings, workplace violence can take several forms. One of the most common is client aggression, which often arises when emotions run high over medical costs or difficult pet health outcomes. Another source of conflict is internal tension among staff, frequently caused by stress, miscommunication, or burnout. Veterinary teams may also face external threats, such as break-ins, theft, or encounters with individuals under the influence of drugs or alcohol.

Recognizing and addressing these risks is essential not only for maintaining legal compliance but also for ensuring a safe, supportive, and professional environment for both staff and clients.

Warning Signs of Escalating Aggression

Veterinary staff should be trained to recognize behaviors that may precede violence, including:

  • Raised voices, shouting, or hostile language
  • Refusal to follow clinic procedures
  • Verbal threats or intimidation
  • Physical signs of agitation (clenched fists, pacing, glaring)
  • Sudden withdrawal or unusual silence

Early recognition allows staff to de-escalate situations before they become dangerous.

Strategies for Preventing Workplace Violence

1. Develop a Written Workplace Violence Prevention Policy

Every veterinary hospital should establish clear policies that define unacceptable behavior and outline procedures for responding to incidents. Policies should cover:

  • Zero tolerance for violence, threats, or harassment
  • Reporting procedures for staff
  • Roles and responsibilities during an incident

2. Staff Training

Regular training empowers team members to handle difficult situations confidently. Training should include:

  • Communication and de-escalation techniques
  • Safe body positioning and escape routes
  • How to respond to verbal vs. physical aggression
  • When to call law enforcement

3. Improve Facility Security

Simple environmental changes can reduce risks:

  • Secure entry points and restrict backdoor access
  • Install cameras in waiting areas and parking lots
  • Use panic buttons or silent alarms at the front desk
  • Ensure proper lighting around entrances and exits

4. Client Communication and Transparency

Many conflicts arise from misunderstandings about treatment plans or costs. Prevent frustration by:

  • Providing clear, written estimates before procedures
  • Training staff to deliver difficult news empathetically
  • Using signage to communicate clinic rules (e.g., payment policies, mask requirements

5. Support Employee Well-being


Burnout and compassion fatigue increase the likelihood of staff conflict and poor client interactions. Supporting employees with wellness programs, counseling resources, and regular breaks can reduce internal stressors that contribute to workplace tension.

Responding to Incidents

If workplace violence does occur, veterinary hospitals should:

  1. Ensure immediate safety—remove staff and clients from danger and contact law enforcement if needed.
  2. Document the incident thoroughly, including statements from witnesses.
  3. Report and review according to OSHA and state requirements.
  4. Debrief with staff—offer counseling and review prevention strategies to avoid repeat incidents.

Building a Culture of Safety

Preventing workplace violence in veterinary medicine is not a one-time effort—it requires ongoing commitment. By fostering open communication, prioritizing staff training, and creating safe environments, veterinary leaders can protect their teams and ensure the focus remains where it belongs: providing excellent care to patients.

Interested in learning more, take the free CST workplace violence and safety course HERE.

 

For more Certified Safety Training lessons and resources, visit our ongoing series to improve workplace safety and compliance in the veterinary space HERE!

Please note the opinions in this video are the expressed opinion of the author(s), and not directly endorsed by VETgirl.

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