VetHerd: A suicide prevention program for the veterinary community.

Why the name?

Vet =Veterinary

Herd = Community

Ever see a herd of elephants and how they surround their young when there is danger? Or how alpacas are used as guardians to protect the sheep? What about herd immunity, where a large proportion of the community (the herd) become immune to a disease such that it protects those that don’t have their own individual immunity? All of these concepts form the basis as to why VetHerd chose its name.

The high rate of suicide in Australian veterinary community is a complex problem which requires a national response and multisectoral collaboration. Like the animals in a herd protecting each other, we believe that everyone has the responsibility to help keep each other safe from suicide.

Never too far away from help.

As a national suicide prevention program we train the veterinary community in suicide intervention with the hope that together, we can help each other in a time of need.

 

A national program across Australia

Our office is located in Brisbane; however, we support the veterinary community Australia wide.

Our Mission

  • Awareness

  • Education & Training

  • Community

  • Research & Resources

Learn More

Meet the Team

Testimonals

  • “It was very practical training with lots of role playing to develop the necessary skills to help keep someone safe for now from suicide, so they could go on to access professional help"

    Dr. Deborah Webb, Veterinarian

  • "I became an ASIST caregiver to empwer myself with the knowledge and skill set to recognise and have the confidence to have those lifesaving conversations. Working within an industry where the suicide rates are alarmingly high, this course is a must."

    Kelly, Veterinary Nurse and Team Leader

  • "I am a veterinarian and counsellor now working in the mental health area. I decided to become an ASIST caregiver to improve my confidence in suicide intervention. I loved the role play during the training because it made me more comfortable to approach someone I think may be contemplating suicide. If more veterinary staff were ASIST trained, I am sure it will save lives."

    Dr. Kathryn, Veterinarian

  • "My ASIST training was put to use only mere weeks after the training. It gave me real life tools to be able to have challenging conversations with people who were struggling with their mental health, and provide the best support I possibly could."

    Brook Talbot, Veterinary Nurse

  • "It was an intensive but very practical and interactive workshop. I feel confident I would know how to help a person expressing suicidal thoughts. A important skill ot have where the suicide rates for vets is 4 times the national average. I would recommend this training to all veterinary professionals."

    Dr. Michael O’Donoghue, Veterinarian

Be a part of the Herd