A lot has changed for me in the last year but coming to work still provides me with some sanity and knowing that I am helping all your animals is still a great motivator. Having a child has meant that I have cut my hours back and finding that work life balance is a lot more challenging but getting to see you all and your pets makes it all worthwhile.
I have worked as a vet since 2009. During my studies in Sydney I also did some after hours work.
Vets deal with people from all walks of life and must handle some hairy situations. I have a couple to share.
As a student vet in Sydney I had a knife pulled on me in consult as I started to discuss the costs involved with trying to save a puppy. The clients were clearly distressed about their puppy and acting inappropriately. It is very difficult as a vet to balance the need to fix and help every animal with the needs of the business. Verbal abuse is something I have had to deal with quite often unfortunately, but a physical threat was incredibly confronting.
The situation was diffused but it is certainly something I will never forget.
As a freshly minted vet up in Queensland, one of my first weekends on call dealt me a case that I was not prepared for in the slightest. There was the sweetest little dog that came in and I was advised that she had been sexually abused.
I was required to report this to the police and the case became very involved.
The dog required surgery and was then rehomed. Unfortunately, she became aggressively overprotective of her new family and had to be euthanased.
This case will forever be in my mind and strengthens my drive to be the best advocate for my patients that I can be.
During my first year I also vividly remember the day that I was required to euthanase 10 animals. A litter of 4 puppies and 6 other individually owned animals. At the time I felt that my world was ending as well. It took a large toll on my mental health but also helped to teach me resilience.
Euthanasia is a necessary common procedure, but it is still difficult to perform. In most cases I am aware I am doing the right thing by the animal, but I would much prefer that I could fix the animal. I guess as vets and pet owners it is something we learn do deal with if not accept.
It is not all doom and gloom though. Most of the time I can help my clients to be more comfortable and live a better life. I especially love working out a diagnosis and treatment plan for medical cases, my problem-solving brain delights in it.
Reproduction is also a favourite of mine, making new pets is very rewarding.
I look forward to seeing you all in clinic to help your pets live their best life!
