Animal Health Solutions

41 Spring 2026 | Animal Health Solutions A s a veterinary professional, you've likely had to manage the emotional weight of moral distress and compassion fatigue. One way to address these challenges is through spiritual care. It's a non-religious approach for finding meaning, purpose, and connection that complements mental health care, explains Scott S. Campbell, MS, MHt, MDIV, a veterinary chaplain at Washington State University, who presented at Veterinary Meeting & Expo (VMX) 2026. Campbell, who is also founder of the American Association of Veterinary Chaplains, explored ways veterinary teams can reclaim joy and authenticity in their daily work. "You're not just providing a service. You're not a mechanic. You create stability during transitions," he said. At the heart of this approach are five core emotional qualities veterinary professionals already possess. "Use [these qualities] intentionally in every interaction to sustain compassion and honor the bonds between you and your client and your patient." Empathy. Feeling with others in both joy and struggle. For instance, sensing a client's anxiety about their pet's diagnosis or a colleague's distress over an unfortunate patient outcome, Campbell explains. Compassion. Empathy in action — responding to someone's experience with care and guidance. Curiosity. A genuine interest in what matters most to others. Uncovering perspectives and values. "This open attitude is what makes you a great practitioner," Campbell says, "allowing clients to tell the story so you can get all the pertinent information that you need." Patience. A steady, calming presence amid uncertainty. Allowing space for emotions. Sympathy. Acknowledging another's feelings without fully sharing them. "It's more of a surface-level response," Campbell says, "like saying I'm sorry reflexively." 3 minutes of mindfulness Mindfulness: The intentional practice of bringing non- judgmental awareness to the present moment. To support these qualities in daily practice, Campbell recommends a simple mindfulness exercise. You can do this exercise almost anywhere — an empty exam room, your office — to reduce stress and reset your capacity for empathy, Campbell said. When done regularly, it can help clear the clutter from your emotional storage closet. He outlines the following steps: Breathe. Take a slow, full breath in, and hold it for about 3 seconds. Then, focus on a long, slow exhale. Reflect. Recall your purpose and what led you to the veterinary profession. Connect. Recognize where you are, why you're there, and who you're there to take care of. Connect what you're doing now with your purpose. Carry on. Take one more cleansing breath, and begin moving through your day again. A B O U T T H E P R E S E N T E R Scott Campbell, MS, MHt, MDIV, veterinary chaplain, Washington State University, shared these insights during his session at VMX Virtual 2026 World Classic, "Rediscovering Meaning in Daily Practice: Spiritual and Emotional Care for Authenticity and Professional Well-Being." You offer comfort during distress, and you hold space for both your patients and their people." SCOTT CAMPBELL

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