Life With Clients

I grew up with my older brother in a low-income household headed by a single mother. We were a family of animal lovers and I decided at an early age I wanted to pursue veterinary medicine. When we finally moved into a home with a yard I begged for us to get a dog. Finally,… Read More

I’m a veterinarian.  I also sometimes play the role of counselor, therapist, or all-around whatever you need in the moment.  And on an almost daily basis at the vet clinic, I get asked one question: “What would you do if he/she was yours?”  Now depending on the situation, this question can take on various connotations…. Read More

Back in ancient times shortly after vet school graduation, I sat to dinner with a recently minted MD and we commiserated about people giving us a hard time about our ages. “I grew a beard,” he said. “It helps.” That option was out for me, so I cut my hair into an unflattering soccer mom… Read More

Dear Emergency Room Pet Owner, Your pet is sick or hurt and you’ve just been told that you are going to have to leave him in the hospital overnight. You’re scared, you’re worried, you’re angry, you’re tired. You just want him to be ok. You just want to take him home. Instead, you’re led to… Read More