Almost twenty-four years ago, I stepped into the field of Veterinary Medicine. Younger, blonder than I am now, and so naïve. I had no idea what I was getting involved in. I thought, as so many do, that our world was made up of puppies and kittens, with a few sick pets thrown in between…. Read More
Perspective
The Art of Not Making Everybody Happy All the Time
In my time as a CVT I’ve witnessed and assisted in more euthanasias than I can count. The old age, the sick, the unexpected. The “we’re ready,” and the “we weren’t ready yet.” I’ve listened to stories about the tired old dog in his puppyhood while the owner imagined him running free again. I’ve assured… Read More
5 Parenting Lessons That Helped Me Become a Better Team Member
Whoa, Nelly! My wife and I just became first-time parents a little over two weeks ago. It’s been a hectic few weeks and what a rush of an experience. Our little daughter is perfect in our eyes and the journey was certainly heart-warming and eye-opening. Despite all the books, birthing classes and advice from colleagues… Read More
Associate Vets Have Voices and Should Use Them
Not every vet wants to be a practice owner. But every vet is made up of more than medical knowledge and surgical skills. I’ve said before, it’s OK to want to be happy at work. We spend a lot of time there. A traditional associate veterinarian is a person who comes gangbusters out of school… Read More
I Graduated… Now What?
I graduated last week. That’s something I’ve been looking forward to saying for almost three years now. I graduated. I am officially a Veterinary Technician, Virginia License pending. Everyone talks about how exciting it is, how proud they are, how they can’t wait to get out and start working but no one talks about the… Read More
It’s Not About You… They Might Have Diarrhea
This was Mrs. Rudder’s third visit to see me about Harry’s skin. The little old pug sat happily on the bench next to her and I gently looked him over. Overall, he was doing great! His skin was less red and he was no longer keeping her up at night with his scratching. However, as… Read More