AVA holiday operating hours, and making the season easier for clinics and hospitals

It's that time of year again! The AVA wishes all veterinarians and their teams a safe and joyful festive period. We are always #GratefulForOurVets who work out of hours to care for animals, and we are especially thankful to those who work over the Christmas and New Year period. You are all legends! See below for an article that we hope can assist your clinics and hospitals with reducing animal emergencies and managing client expectations over the summer break.

We hope that everyone has some opportunities to relax over the festive period, and we look forward to serving and supporting you in 2022.

Holiday changes to AVA operating hours

Please note that the AVA offices will be closed from 5pm (AEDT) Friday 17 December and will re-open at 8:30am Tuesday 4 January 2022.

There is no change to the AVA's 24 hour Telephone Counselling Service, which you can contact on 1300 687 327. Lifeline is also available 24/7 on 13 11 14. For more information on our counselling service and other mental health resources click here. While of course it presents many joys, the 'silly season' can also present some unique challenges in our work and personal lives. Remember to 'check in' with yourself regularly, set boundaries as needed, allow some quiet moments to de-stress, and ask for assistance if you're struggling.

Our HR Helpdesk will operate with the following reduced hours:
24 Dec: 8:30am - 12pm
25-28 Dec: Closed
28 Dec: Closed
29-31 Dec: 8:30am - 12pm
1-3 Jan: Closed

Making the busy holiday season easier for veterinary clinics and hospitals

We have prepared an article that clinics are welcome to share with clients via social media, email etc. The article details some common summer hazards for pet owners to be aware of, and builds awareness that veterinarians need a break too - so local veterinary services may be reduced over the holiday period. Pet owners are encouraged to be thoughtful, respectful and patient towards veterinarians, and plan ahead by noting their local clinic's opening hours and the location of their nearest after hours hospital - where they should be prepared for longer than usual wait times.

To access the article, click here, and keep an eye out for more as part of our #GratefulForOurVets campaign.
You can also share our Facebook post directly to your clinic page!