After finishing our vet degree thirteen years ago, my best friend, who I met at University, asked me to come to Australia with her for five months. “It will be beneficial for our English, and we can meet flying vets” she said. I promptly replied “I’d rather explore South America”. A few days later, however, after she cheekily managed to convince me, we started planning our trip on the condition we’d work separately as backpackers to avoid speaking French and travel together between jobs.In September 2007, I landed in Oz, in Yass precisely. I found a job in a horse stud, and within a few weeks, I met a handsome farmer who I now proudly call my husband.
Now, you are probably wondering why I am writing about my personal life when this story is supposed to be on one interesting story I experienced as a vet. Well, it’s because I’m thrilled to be practising as a vet in Australia and the very reason why I decided to share this story with you. Life is one big adventure (as Peter Rabbit constantly tells my 3-year-old), full of surprises and compromises. For years, my husband and I couldn’t decide if our life was going to end up here or in France. So for years, I procrastinated sitting the National Veterinarian Examination (NVE); which would allow me to become a vet in Australia.
Today things have changed. We have decided to base our life in Yass. It has helped me to take some significant steps forward. Last year in April while in London and after having given birth to my second beautiful child, I managed to pass the first part of the NVE. Resulting in me being employed by Yass Valley Veterinary as a Veterinarian. YVV is just the best mixed practice to work in. I fully appreciate where I am today because for so long, I was unable to participate in my profession of choice. I am passionate about my work, I love meeting and treating animals. Small or large, domestic or wild. I’ve tried different jobs but nothing has brought me as much joy, satisfaction, (stress!) and fun as working with this wonderful team and in this great community. Where every day I am faced with a load of surprises and challenges. Thirteen years ago, when I was sitting my final exams, I’d never have thought I’d be here holding a screaming Cockatoo, an emblematic Kookaburra, a cold Blue tongue lizard or the most adorable Wallaroo rescued from a cave!
I’m also happy to announce that a few days ago we adopted a rescue Labrador cross puppy from ARF, full of cuteness. Owning a dog was on my wish list for so long, but I never committed to it as we were on planes too often. Another small sacrifice… However after a little household debate, my three year old daughter and I decided we couldn’t wait any longer! Since November, we have also had Tiger living with us, a rescue cat. She’s beautiful and very playful (and resilient) with our kids! Now, I wonder if life could possibly get any better?!
