Gift Ideas for the Veterinary Team

Thoughtful Ways to Show Your Appreciation

Written by
Nia M. Perkins, DVM

Nia Perkins, DVM is a veterinarian with 18 years of experience. In addition to writing for The Spruce Pets, she is also a relief vet and a virtual vet consultant.

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Nia M. Perkins, DVM
Updated 08/28/20
Vet Team with Dog

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When we think about giving gifts, that usually includes friends and family. But have you considered giving to your veterinarian and their team? Whether you visit them once a year or once a month, your veterinary team is always there when you need them. They are improving and saving pets' lives every day, most times without recognition. You can show your appreciation at any time of the year, and it doesn't have to be a major production. Food items (especially sweets!), edible arrangements, coffee gifts, you can never go wrong with any of these ideas. But if you want to give something a little different from the norm, here are some thoughtful gifts that will surely make your veterinary teams' hearts smile.

  • 01 of 06

    A Handwritten Note

    Woman writing a note

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    You might think this small token of gratitude is not enough, but you would be surprised! Handwritten notes may be one of the best gifts you can give. This is your opportunity to thank them for all they do. Use fancy stationery and add a picture of your pet to make it extra special. Handwritten notes are a keepsake that the veterinary team will cherish, especially when times get a little tough.

  • 02 of 06

    Adult-Themed Coloring Book

    Woman using adult coloring book

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    Working in a vet hospital can be quite hectic. Some days, it's hard to eat lunch or even take a bathroom break! Gifts that help with work-life balance and reducing stress levels are always welcomed. Adult-themed coloring books are a fun gift to give, and they also serve as a creative outlet for the team. Add some colored pencils and a frame for their first picture, and you may find your gift on the lobby wall the next time you stop by for a visit!

  • 03 of 06

    Animal Decorated Socks

    Cat laying on feet

    Linda Raymond / Getty Images 

    Everybody loves socks! But when you add animals to the mix, that takes them to another level. The mood in a vet hospital can be very serious, especially when the team is helping a sick pet. Wearing decorated socks is a subtle way to brighten up the day. And if you want to add a personal touch, give them socks with your own pets on them, they might try to wear them every day.

  • 04 of 06

    A Handmade Gift

    Person with handmade gift

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    If you want to express your creative side, do so with a handmade gift. A scented candle, note cards, a bouquet of pens, your favorite tea blend in a mason jar, the possibilities are endless! There are easy do-it-yourself options available on Pinterest and Google, just figure out what you are good at. Your veterinary team will be so flattered that you took the time to personalize your gift, they will be sure to share the news with family and friends.

    Continue to 5 of 6 below.
  • 05 of 06

    Share a Positive Review

    Women on phones

    Tim Robberts / Getty Images 

    There are some things veterinarians want you to know and at times, wish their clients could be a fly on the wall to see what challenges they experience on a daily basis. We are in an age now where dissatisfaction equals taking to social media to air the dirty laundry. This, unfortunately, happens in the veterinary profession as well. Share a positive review of your veterinary team. Use this tool to spread positive messages about the people who tirelessly care for your pets. Challenge family, friends, and even a stranger (yes, that guy you met in the Starbucks line this morning!) to write messages about their veterinary team. This is a gift that you not only share with the team but with other pet owners!

  • 06 of 06

    A Commemorative Donation

    Dog with donation can

    damedeeso/Getty Images

     

    Veterinarians and their teams all around the world, give countless hours of their time and expertise to charitable causes. Sometimes it starts in their own practice, by offering services to a pet in need when the owner is having financial difficulty. They are extremely giving, sometimes to the point of burn out or putting their practices in financial jeopardy. Ask your team what you can do to help. It may be donating newspapers or blankets. Maybe they need supplies to take care of kittens they are fostering. Offer to foster a kitten! Make a donation to an in-house hospital fund to help owners who can't afford surgery for their pets. You can even donate your time if they have volunteer needs. Your veterinary team will never turn away a helping hand, and you never know who your donation may help.