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
Life With Clients
Why I Don’t Give Clients My First Name at Work
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
How This Tech Responds To “Vets are in it For the Money”
Recently someone asked me what is the worst part about my job as an RVT. I’m sure they were expecting me to say something about euthanasias, but really, the worst part is having to listen to clients tell me that we are only in this for the money, that we don’t care enough about their… Read More
An Open Letter to Veterinary ER Clients
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
Why Cats, Dogs & Fireworks DO NOT Mix
Cats, dogs and fireworks don’t mix. In this video, Dr. Roark explains why. Read More
The Truth About the Worst Part of My Job
Today an owner told me I have the worst job in the world. His reasoning was not what I expected. Said owner’s dog was dropped off for an exam by the pet sitter. She said the dog was just not acting right. The owners were out of town and could be expected to… Read More