Working Through the Holidays? Here’s How Veterinary Professionals Can Make It Actually Fun
For veterinary professionals, the holiday season can feel less like a time for rest and celebration and more like a marathon of long shifts, emergency calls, and endless to-do lists. While friends and family are cozying up with hot cocoa or unwrapping gifts, vets, technicians, and clinic staff are often juggling critical cases, comforting anxious pet owners, and keeping clinics running smoothly. But working during the holidays doesn’t have to mean missing out on the joy of the season. With a few strategies, veterinary professionals can make their holidays not only manageable but genuinely enjoyable—even on the busiest shifts.
One of the biggest challenges during holiday shifts is staying energized and healthy. Long hours, high stress, and irregular schedules can leave you feeling drained, making it hard to enjoy anything outside of work. The solution starts with preparation: pack nutritious snacks, stay hydrated, and take advantage of any downtime—even five minutes—to stretch, meditate, or simply breathe. Incorporating small self-care rituals during the day can help you stay focused and resilient, making the difference between a stressful shift and a shift that feels surprisingly manageable.
Another key to enjoying the season while working is bringing the holidays to the workplace. A little festive spirit goes a long way: decorate your clinic with lights or small ornaments, play holiday music during quiet moments, or organize a simple treat exchange with coworkers. These small gestures create a sense of celebration even when you’re on the clock. Plus, they can boost morale, strengthen your team, and make the clinic feel less like a workplace and more like a community—even on Christmas Eve or New Year’s Day.
Social connection is vital, too. Just because you’re working doesn’t mean you have to miss out on bonding with loved ones. Schedule a short video call with family or friends during your break, or plan a post-shift mini celebration—think a special holiday dinner, a favorite movie, or even a quiet walk in the winter air. Feeling connected, even in small ways, helps offset the isolation that can come with holiday shifts.
Setting boundaries is another important strategy. It’s tempting to try to do everything for everyone, but saying “no” when possible, prioritizing tasks, and carving out intentional downtime can make a world of difference. Even a few hours dedicated to rest, reflection, or a favorite activity can provide a mental reset that keeps holiday shifts from becoming overwhelming.
And don’t forget to celebrate the joy that comes from your work. For veterinary professionals, the holidays can highlight the true gift of the job: helping animals and their families when they need it most. Embrace that sense of purpose as part of your holiday experience. It’s not about skipping the festivities; it’s about finding meaning in the moments you do have and allowing yourself to celebrate even amid responsibility.
Finally, be intentional about the little things. Wear a festive sweater, sip a holiday-flavored coffee, or treat yourself to a seasonal dessert between appointments. These tiny rituals can create joy and anticipation in ways that help you feel like the season hasn’t passed you by. When combined with self-care, connection, and purpose, these small touches can transform even the busiest holiday shifts into experiences that are memorable—and even fun.
Working on the holidays is undeniably tough, but with planning, creativity, and a mindset that embraces both work and celebration, veterinary professionals can experience the magic of the season without burning out. The holidays may look different for those on call, but they can still be joyful, meaningful, and—even surprisingly—fun.
