Imagine a brand new veterinary school graduate walking past you and out of the graduation ceremony, degree in hand. Just before they pass out of the building and into the blinding sunlight beyond, they pause and turn back to you. “Do you have any last pieces of advice?” What would you say in this brief… Read More
Blog
The Work of The Veterinarian
When I entered veterinary school, I thought I’d graduate into a position of decisive clarity. After all, knowledge was clearly a ladder and as each class stacked on top of the last, I felt I must be getting closer and closer to having all the information necessary to be a doctor who knew what to… Read More
Optimism & The Long(er) Nosed Frenchie
As someone who posts a ton of veterinary photos and videos online, I find brachycephalic pets to be a bit of a tricky fish. On the one hand, I often see brachycephalic (aka “smooshed-faced”) pets with absolutely wonderful personalities and are a joy to be around. These include brachycephalic dog breeds like pugs, Frenchies, and… Read More
No One Cares About Your Broccoli
Last night I burned the broccoli. I was grilling cheeseburgers and had a fresh bag of BBQ potato chips ready to go when I decided we needed something green on the plate. I patted myself on the back for thinking so responsibly and being such a conscientious parent. I threw some frozen broccoli in a… Read More
Beware The Chute: Lessons Learned In The Exam Room
Yesterday, I saw an 8-year-old Doberman who had been urinating inappropriately in the house. His name is Bowser and his owner brought him in about two weeks ago for an initial examination with a different doctor. When Bowser first presented, his physical examination was normal and his bladder was completely empty. After a discussion about… Read More
A No BS Guide to Being Fantastic in the Exam Room
People often ask me for my honest, best advice on how to be fantastic in the exam room. I generally don’t give it to them. The reason is that most people want me to say something they can just decide to start doing with minimal or no additional effort compared to what they are already… Read More