The Strengths of Neurodivergence in Veterinary Medicine

Susie Mitchell, MSSW, CVT, CLEAR Blueprint Program Manager, NOMV
Gabby Cadieux, Outreach Coordinator, NOMV
2025-03-28

Neurodiversity is a topic that is gaining more traction within the veterinary community.
Recent estimates suggest 15-20% of the population is neurodiverse, so the growing interest is
understandable (Ringie, 2024). As we navigate these discussions, it’s essential to deepen our
understanding through defining conditions found across the neurodivergence spectrum. It’s
through this foundational knowledge that we can identify the benefits of each area and the
ways neurodivergence can contribute to creative, productive, and strong workplace dynamics
within the veterinary industry.

Let’s start by defining some key terms:

● Neurodiversity refers to the distinctiveness of human minds. It represents the
differences in the way people process information, communicate, understand, move,
and engage in society.
● Neurodivergent refers to having brain functions in ways that differ from the neuro-
typical majority. The wide range of neurodivergent conditions can be broadly
categorized as neurodevelopmental.
While the following conditions are not an all inclusive list, some of the following can be
found within the umbrella of neurodivergence:
● Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD): A neurological and developmental disorder that
affects how people interact with others, communicate, learn, and behave.
● Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD): A developmental disorder
characterized by an ongoing pattern of one or more of the following types of
symptoms: impulsivity, inattention, and/or over-activity. ADHD symptoms can also
look like failure to listen to instructions, inability to stay on task, etc.

● Dyslexia & Dyscalculia: Dyslexia is characterized by difficulties with accurate and/or fluent word
recognition and by poor spelling and decoding abilities. These difficulties
typically result from a deficit in the phonological component of language that
is often unexpected in relation to other cognitive abilities and the provision of
effective classroom instruction. Dyscalculia is a specific learning disability with an impairment in
mathematics, which can affect calculations, problem solving, or both.

The differences in brain function of neurodivergent individuals can sometimes pose
challenges, but can also provide incredible strengths. Strengths that help neurodivergent
individuals thrive in veterinary medicine can include:

1. Exceptional Focus & Detail Orientation: Many neurodivergent individuals excel in
tasks requiring precision, such as diagnostics and medication administration.
2. Problem-Solving Abilities: Neurodivergent individuals often approach challenges
creatively, bringing fresh perspectives to complex situations, whether in emergency
care or rare diagnoses.
3. Compassion & Justice Sensitivity: Those with ADHD or autism tend to have a strong
sense of compassion and deep desire to right wrongs or protect those that cannot
protect themselves. This can make these individuals fervent and determined patient
advocates. (Guy-Evans, 2025)
4. Consistency & Reliability: Many neurodivergent individuals thrive in structured
environments, bringing consistency and dependability to daily routines and
procedures.

Including neurodivergent people on your team can be an asset. Just like anyone else, they’ll
be able to do their best with appropriate support in place. It’s easy to imagine how left-
handed surgical instruments would help enable a left handed surgeon to perfect their skills,
likewise, knowing which accommodations will best support neurodivergent employees can
help them excel in their role.

Some supports and accommodations may include:

1. Awareness & Education: Promoting neurodiversity awareness and education helps to
prevent negative interactions with coworkers and decreases the incidences of
microaggressions.
2. Clear Communication: Providing clear expectations helps reduce uncertainty and
empowers neurodivergent employees to excel in their roles. Task lists and well- defined job descriptions can help those with ADHD organize their day and prevent
missed steps.
3. Sensory-friendly Spaces: Creating quieter, sensory-friendly environments, when able,
helps neurodivergent individuals stay regulated during hectic times, improving focus
and well-being.
4. Leveraging Technology: Providing both written and verbal instructions can be
especially helpful for those with dyslexia. Additionally, making talk-to-text and text-
to-talk resources available can help them work more efficiently. Similarly, providing
talking scales, thermometers, and glucometers can help those with dyscalculia
maintain accurate records and making use of CRI calculators can help them
confidently make essential calculations.

Veterinary practices can create a more inclusive, compassionate, and effective workplace
that benefits both employees and the animals they care for by recognizing the strengths of
neurodivergent individuals and implementing supportive accommodations.

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