A Different Point of View

With all of the media articles surrounding the negative parts of being a veterinarian, I wanted to write a bit of a different point of view.

When you are upset at work because you have more files to process or emails to respond to, think about a veterinarian, who spent all night in surgery to remove a ruptured spleen.

When you complain that you have no time to exercise, think of a veterinary resident - who spends 18 hour days on their feet, with patients whose lives depend on their every decision.

When you wake up from a sleepless night, think of a veterinary intern - who spent all night with a blocked goat, and is still expected to have her cases ready for rounds by 7 am, herd checks all day and students asking 1000 questions, and she comes in with a smile still on her face.

When you think there is no hope left in humanity, think of veterinary students. Who despite every setback, rejection and obstacle, are convinced that they will make a difference to someone, whether that be an animal or human.

We come into this profession for one reason: Make a difference. Heal. Save. Prevent. Treat. Improve Life. There are many reasons this career can bring you down. Exams will make you feel like you know nothing, patients that don't respond to all your best efforts, clients who think you are only here to pay off your loans.

But from my point of view: I could not see another way of life worth living. A profession, career and passion worth all of the time and effort that goes into being a medical professional. Its not about money. Its not even about saving lives. It's about making an impact for the better, one patient at a time.

...And that makes this profession worth fighting for.