Behind the stethoscope: The hidden struggles and strengths of veterinarians in Italy

Background Veterinarians play a crucial role in public health, animal welfare and human–animal relationships, yet their work involves increasing emotional, structural and ethical challenges. This study explored the lived experiences, perceptions, and needs of veterinary professionals in Italy to understand how these dimensions shape wellbeing and professional identity. Methods A qualitative cross-sectional design was adopted. Twenty veterinarians were recruited through purposive and snowball sampling. Semi-structured online interviews were audio-recorded, transcribed verbatim and analysed thematically using the framework method. Results Four interconnected themes emerged: (1) structural vulnerabilities, including workload, economic pressure and contractual insecurity; (2) emotional labour and moral distress, particularly around euthanasia, client grief and ethical decision making; (3) interpersonal complexity, involving emotionally charged client relationships and team dynamics; and (4) professional identity and societal (mis)recognition, reflecting frustration with misconceptions and lack of institutional support. Communication emerged as a transversal challenge, with many participants reporting insufficient training for emotionally demanding interactions. Conclusions Veterinary professionals face multifaceted challenges that affect their emotional health, job satisfaction and social recognition. Findings underscore the need for improved education, organisational restructuring and stronger institutional commitment to wellbeing. Enhancing public understanding of the veterinary role and promoting healthier human–animal relationships may support a more sustainable professional context. Limitations Despite diverse participant representation, the small, self-selected sample and predominance of female participants may have influenced findings. While not statistically generalisable, the study offers transferable insights into veterinarians’ lived experiences and points towards future comparative research across contexts.