Creating a healthy and balanced culture doesn’t happen by accident. It requires intention, consistency, and leadership at every level. Across our hospitals, leaders are finding meaningful ways to strengthen communication, support wellbeing, and help teams feel connected to each other and their purpose.

We asked hospital leaders from across Virginia and West Virginia how they’re building a healthier, more balanced culture in 2026. Here’s what they shared.

Build culture through joy, connection, and shared values. 🎶

“Culture influences everything we do, from how we work together to the care we provide our patients. It starts with me as the MDVM, and I make it a priority to bring positivity, fun, and energy into our clinic.

We hire thoughtfully, focusing on impact players who value a healthy culture. Each team member completes a ‘work love language’ quiz so appreciation is meaningful and personal. We maintain high standards while prioritizing work-life balance, connection, and fun, whether that’s dancing in treatment, creating TikTok videos on our account @petvetroanoke, or laughing together during a busy day. Our clients can feel that culture, and it shows in the care we deliver.”

— Dr. Kait McBane, Managing Veterinarian, Pet Vet Roanoke

Invest in communication and conflict-resolution skills. 🤝

“Building a healthy culture requires constant maintenance; regular check-ins, quarterly reviews, and real-time resolution of concerns. Just as important is helping our staff develop strong conflict-resolution skills.

Everyone in this field brings empathy, compassion, and selflessness to their work. Encouraging honest, low-stakes communication helps team members recognize those qualities in each other and resolve disagreements before they escalate. When higher-stakes issues arise, addressing them in real time prevents resentment and helps relationships heal.”

— Derek Hall, Hospital Manager, Blue Ridge Veterinary Associates

Strengthen culture through connection, purpose, and community. 🌍

“Growing up playing sports taught me that the strongest teams are built on chemistry, trust, and shared purpose—not just individual skill. Those same principles guide how I lead our hospital. When our culture is strong, everything improves, from communication to patient care.

In 2026, we’re building on that foundation by helping our team reconnect with the why behind what we do. We’re expanding our community involvement so we can connect with pet owners in a positive and educational way, and feel the fulfillment that comes from serving our community together. A healthy culture is one where people feel connected to each other, their work, and the community they serve.”

— Heather Lewis, Hospital Manager, Chenault Veterinary Hospital

Support growth, flexibility, and life beyond work. 🌱

“Our practice is committed to creating a balanced, supportive culture where everyone feels valued, heard, and encouraged to grow. We embrace a team with diverse experience levels, believing we learn best from each other.

We actively encourage PTO, open conversations about scheduling needs, flexibility as life changes, and professional development through continuing education. By celebrating milestones, cross-training, and acknowledging hard work in real time, we grow stronger together both personally and professionally.”

— Dr. Samantha Hall, Massanutten Animal Clinic

Lead by example through presence and service. 💙

“We encourage a healthy, balanced culture simply by showing up and being present. Daily informal check-ins, active listening, stepping in on the floor, answering phones during the busiest moments, and even staying late to help clean so the team can leave sooner. It all matters.

We also host fun events outside of work and make meals for the team. We truly see ourselves as a family, and by serving each other, we continually reinforce gratitude, trust, and balance.”

— Helen Galford, Hospital Manager, Greenbrier Veterinary Hospital