Meet Dr. Marie Holowaychuk

A veterinarian, author, and speaker, Dr. Marie Holowaychuk is a passionate advocate for mental health and wellbeing in the veterinary profession. With over 20 years of experience spanning clinical practice, academia, and consulting, she understands the challenges and rewards that come with a life in veterinary medicine. As a board-certified specialist in emergency and critical care, Marie has worked in high-pressure environments where life-saving decisions are made daily—experiences that shaped her commitment to supporting the people behind the profession. Her work is rooted in the belief that veterinary teams can’t provide optimal care for animals unless they also prioritize their own wellbeing.

Through her writing, coaching, and speaking engagements, Marie inspires veterinary professionals to embrace sustainable careers that balance compassion with self-care. She founded Reviving Veterinary Medicine, a global platform that provides tools and resources for building healthier veterinary workplaces. From developing online programs like From Burnout to Balance to hosting the Reviving Vet Med podcast, she has created spaces for honest conversations about stress, resilience, and the future of veterinary care. Her mission is to reduce stigma, foster open dialogue, and empower veterinary teams to thrive—both personally and professionally.

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A Career Rooted in Veterinary Medicine

Marie’s journey into veterinary medicine began long before her first day of vet school. Raised in a veterinary household with both parents in the field, she witnessed firsthand the joys and demands of animal care from an early age. After completing her veterinary degree, she pursued advanced training in the United States, eventually becoming board-certified in emergency and critical care. She spent five years teaching at the Ontario Veterinary College, where she mentored students, conducted research, and experienced the intensity of academic and clinical practice.

Her years working in veterinary intensive care opened her eyes to the invisible struggles veterinary professionals face—burnout, moral distress, and the emotional toll of high-stakes caregiving. These experiences led her to shift her focus toward mental health advocacy and wellness education. Today, Marie combines her clinical expertise with a deep commitment to transforming veterinary culture, helping individuals and organizations create environments where team members can succeed without sacrificing their health.

A photo of Marie speaking to an audience

A Leader in Wellness and Mental Health Advocacy

Beyond her clinical and academic accomplishments, Marie is known internationally for her work in wellbeing and leadership development. She is a certified coach, yoga and meditation teacher, and wellbeing facilitator who brings a holistic approach to veterinary wellness. Her workshops, webinars, and keynote talks are praised for their actionable strategies, heartfelt delivery, and relatable stories that resonate with veterinary professionals at all career stages. Whether speaking at conferences, facilitating retreats, or consulting with veterinary practices, Marie’s goal is always the same: to help people cultivate resilience, set healthy boundaries, and communicate with compassion.

Marie’s contributions extend to writing and media as well. She has authored more than 30 peer-reviewed articles and numerous textbook chapters, and she regularly shares insights through blogs, podcasts, and professional publications. Her work has earned her multiple awards and recognitions, including Alberta Veterinary Medical Association’s Communication Award, the Alberta Blue Cross Face of Wellness Award, and inclusion in the Top 100 Health and Wellness and Top 50 Canadian Keynote Speakers. Through every endeavor, she remains committed to fostering a profession where veterinarians and veterinary teams are supported, valued, and empowered to thrive.

Bulk buy available for your next book club event!

Bulk orders of 10 copies or more are well-suited for veterinary practices, educational institutions, organizations, or book clubs wanting to provide their members with valuable insights into the veterinary profession. Distributing A Compassionate Calling within your group encourages thoughtful dialogue and a greater appreciation of the challenges and rewards faced by veterinary professionals. Special pricing is available for bulk purchases—please contact us for more information on how to best support your team or community.

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