136 | Redefining the care of animals Staff members are encouraged to contribute to the clinic’s overall vision and strategy, ensuring a shared sense of purpose that benefits both the practice and its patients. The Strand Veterinarian T T Anne Boswell COMMUNITY Celebrating 15 years of wagging tails and wellness, The Strand Veterinarian has redefined animal care in Auckland by combining heartfelt compassion for pets with a ground-breaking focus on staff wellbeing. The Parnell clinic, co-founded by Dr Megan Alderson and Dr Justine Alley, is renowned not only for its exceptional general practice care of cats and dogs, but also for its growth-oriented philosophy, which places equal emphasis on the wellbeing of its employees. The Strand Vet’s growth-centric mindset extends beyond just enhancing medical skills and knowledge; it focuses on the emotional, mental, and physical wellbeing of the entire team. By creating an environment where employees feel valued and supported, the clinic promotes a culture of trust and empowerment. Staff members are encouraged to contribute to the clinic’s overall vision and strategy, ensuring a shared sense of purpose that benefits both the practice and its patients. Staff members also have access to a range of benefits, including Southern Cross health insurance and a wellbeing channel, which offers support beyond traditional sick leave. The clinic has also incorporated a flexible worklife balance, and a designated space upstairs provides a quiet area for employees to relax and escape the hustle of the clinic, fostering a sense of balance and connection among team members. The focus on staff well-being is further exemplified through daily mental health exercises. Each morning, the team dedicates 10 minutes to activities that benefit their mental health, helping them to start the day grounded and ready to care for their patients. The Strand Vet’s commitment to mental health is crucial in the veterinary industry, where burnout and emotional strain are prevalent. The clinic’s involvement in the Vet Thrive Six Shield Programme is a testament to their proactive approach to mental health. Written by Dr Alderson, the programme was developed in response to the detrimental effects that caring careers often have on professionals. This wellness initiative has yielded outstanding results and has been widely recognised for its positive impact on the veterinary team: the clinic was awarded the 2024 HRNZ Wellbeing Program Supreme Award, as well as the HRNZ Wellbeing Program Small Business Award, for its work on the Vet Thrive Six Shield Program, which will soon be promoted to the wider veterinary community in collaboration with Massey University. In 2024 they also became the first veterinary practice outside the United States to receive the Not One More Vet (NOMV) CLEAR Blueprint certification, a standard that verifies a mentally healthy work environment. The clinic’s tagline, “the little clinic with the big heart,” captures its dedication to both animals and people. Whether caring for their clients’ beloved pets, or nurturing the growth and wellbeing of their staff, The Strand Vet stands out as a practice that operates with respect and understanding at every level. The Strand Veterinarian continues to prove that a holistic approach to care – for animals, humans, the community and the environment – is key to creating a thriving and sustainable veterinary practice. 09 377 6667 | timetocare@thestrandvet.co.nz | Textile Centre, Kenwyn St, Parnell, Auckland | Mon/Fri: 8am-6pm - Sat: 9am-1pm Choose The Strand Vet for the best healthcare for your pet Looking for a 5-star customer-orientated experience for your precious pet? You have come to the right place. You'll find us at 1 Kenwyn Street in Parnell, Auckland. DIAGNOSTICS • PET SURGERY • DENTISTRY PAIN MANAGEMENT • URGENT CARE STRESS FREE • SENIOR CARE • PALLATIVE
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