Dr. Jeannet Kessels | The Facebook Post That Sparked a Global Climate Movement in Vet Med

In this episode of Don’t Call Me Catty, we sit down with Dr. Jeannet Kessels, DVM, founder of Vets For Climate Action, to trace how one moment of concern turned into a worldwide effort to unite veterinary voices for the planet. From the frontlines of climate-driven animal welfare crises to conversations with veterinary organizations across continents, Dr. Kessels shares what it takes to build momentum in a profession rooted in science, trust, and community connection.

We talk about why veterinarians may be some of the most powerful and credible messengers in the climate conversation, how grassroots advocacy becomes global leadership, and what the emerging World Veterinary Environmental Alliance could mean for the future of animal health, public trust, and building the guardrails to ensure we’re not just responding to climate-driven crises, but helping prevent them. 

This is a conversation about courage, credibility, and what happens when care for patients expands into care for the world they live in.

Tune in for a grounded, honest look at how veterinary medicine is stepping into a much bigger role and why it matters now more than ever.

About Dr. Jeannet:

Dr Jeannet Kessels established her tiny veterinary practice when her children were small, which grew into the multi-site Greater Springfield Vets, known for its strong culture and values. Her motto ‘Excellence with Heart’ is reflected across both life and work. As a creative entrepreneur, she is driven by kindness and surrounding herself with brilliant minds. 

Since Jeannet was 5 years old, the world has lost over 70% of its wildlife. It is time for our profession to powerfully and cohesively respond! Jeannet is single-minded in advocating for animals in the triple planetary crisis. She founded Vets for Climate Action Australia (VfCA), which has now scaled to the innovative and profoundly important World Veterinary Environmental Alliance (WVEA). With a focus on climate, sustainability, and biodiversity, the alliance strengthens and leverages the positive work of like-minded vets and veterinary organisations all around the world. 

Jeannet models environmental philanthropy, applying practical steps towards sustainability and emissions reduction across her own veterinary hospitals.

Get Involved: 

World Veterinary Environmental Alliance

WVEA is growing fast; almost every veterinary sustainability and climate organisation globally is now a member, alongside the World Veterinary Association, Federation of Veterinarians of Europe, and numerous national associations. Join here: https://worldvetalliance.org/join/

(UPDATED since time of recording) Email: hello@worldvetalliance.org

WVEA is pronounced "Wee-Veee-A" 

Vets for Climate Action (Australia)

https://www.vfca.org.au/ 

Veterinary Sustainability Alliance (Canada and USA) 

https://www.veterinarysustainabilityalliance.org/