In this thought-provoking episode of The Consult Room, we explore the contentious XL Bully ban that has stirred considerable debate across the veterinary and animal welfare sectors. With the legislation now in effect, making it illegal to own, breed, rehome, or sell an XL Bully without specific exemptions, the repercussions are vast and varied. This episode aims to dissect the emotional and practical implications of the ban and how it has impacted the veterinary sector.

In this episode, we discuss: Introduction to the Ban: Understanding the reasons behind the swift introduction of the XL Bully ban, including public safety concerns and the legislative response to high-profile dog attacks. Personal Experience and Perspective: Insights from a veterinary charity sector leader on the emotional weight and complex outcomes of breed-specific legislation. Impact on the Veterinary Sector:

The surge in caseloads and the logistical hurdles facing veterinary clinics.

Ethical quandaries over euthanizing healthy animals and the veterinarian's role in legislation enforcement. Operational challenges, including staff shortages and resource allocation in response to the ban. Emotional Toll and Mental Health: The psychological impact on veterinarians tasked with euthanizing healthy animals, the distress of pet owners, and available support networks. The Consult Room is a space that celebrate pets and people, offering professional insights and pet support to a wide audience of pet-lovers, pet owners and veterinary professionals. Visit us at ⁠www.theconsultroom.co.uk⁠ or reach out at ⁠Hello@theconsultroom.co.uk⁠ for more information and support.

Is the veterinary profession in the depths of a mental health crisis? With media headlines highlighting industry burnout, dropout and suicide, it would appear so! But what’s the truth behind these headlines and do they help - or harm?

In this series 3 podcast from The Consult Room, Dr Paul Manktelow seeks to find answers and share support, alongside veterinary expert Rosie Allister, esteemed lecturer, international speaker and published author, who has dedicated over 10 years on this very issue. 

Listen and learn more about:

• What’s behind concerns about mental health in the veterinary industry?

• The specific harm that negative narratives can cause to already-stressed veterinary professionals.

• External influences which have had a huge impact on all veterinary practice - including Brexit, Covid, Corporate takeover and the massive surge in pet ownership.

• Why negative narratives have a cause-and-effect when it comes to low numbers in recruitment and retention.

• Why the unrealistic expectations and lack of understanding from some pet owners'  and baseless, vindictive complaints contribute to stress - and even suicide.

• The awful impact of ‘vet-bashing’ and online abuse - and how this affects all veterinary professionals.

• The statistics around suicide in the profession and the importance of striking a balance in what we talk about - and how we talk about it.

The podcast also shares where to find help as Rosie shares more information about the charity Vetlife and how this is literally a lifeline for veterinary professionals.

And pet owners can get involved and help too! We’re a compassionate profession which puts pets first, so please help us by showing some compassion for our colleagues.

The Consult Room is a space that celebrates pets and people, offering professional insights and pet support to a wide audience of pet-lovers, pet owners and veterinary professionals. Join us at www.theconsultroom.co.uk or reach out at Hello@theconsultroom.co.uk