Things I Learned at a Veterinary Clinic

My stomach is much stronger than I had thought. Learning to work in a veterinary clinic has proven me to be much tougher than I had thought as well. My love of animals and my ability to think practical have both come in handy as I've encountered the educational process of the veterinary world.

Things I'd like to share with the public include negatives as well as positives. As I've begun my journey, I've already learned so much that my brain is exhausted at the amount of information there is to know about veterinary clinics and the people and animals therein. The limited experiences I've had with veterinary clinics over the years gave me absolutely no warning as to how much is involved in the process of veterinary work.

Ten negative things I've learned include:

1. Dealing with the public can be discouraging. Abuse of animals disgusts me and can come in many forms. The public who comes into the clinic expecting too much out of their animals as well as the staff does not cease to amaze me.

2. It's a dirty, smelly job. I've been in contact with animal hair, poo, shampoo, medications, urine, dirt, blood, puke, bodily discharges, and sweat. But, hey, someone has to do it, right?

3. Co-workers and bosses can be the same everywhere. Keep in mind that your own outlook can make a huge difference in any negative situation.

4. Drama can be contagious and can test your every nerve. You must be strong and use the good sense God gave you to remain true to yourself and to be able to function objectively.

5. There is greed, and not only amongst the furry inhabitants of the clinic.

6. Never rub a Bassett hound's belly. He will come to expect it and will howl uncontrollably in protest when you ignore his request for more.

7. No one really wants a sick, dirty, smelly animal in contact with them. It's part of the job as owner and caretaker. Deal with it.

8. Animal teeth and claws can inflict unexpected, infection, and much pain.

9. Euthanization sucks, but it's necessary.

10. Learning in a busy environment can become overwhelming for a new person very quickly.

Ten positive things I've learned include:

1. There are still many kind people in the world.

2. The veterinary staff deserves our respect. They work very hard behind the scenes to provide quality service to the public and our furry friends. They are people with needs, wants, and feelings.

3. Hands-on education can be fun.

4. Your boss may care more than you realize, but there is a business to run and someone has to be the bad guy on occasion. So give your boss a break. He or she is only human, not perfect.

5. Animals that seem threatening are often only scared. How would you feel if your control and independence were taken away against your will, and your personal space invaded?

6. You should never be too old to learn. I've found it has breathed new life into me that I did not realize I needed.

7. I will survive if I miss lunch or if I eat late.

8. Judge others slowly, it will benefit you in more ways than you can imagine.

9. Veterinary clinics are a necessary part of our communities.

10. My family has new respect for me and enjoys the new pet I inevitably brought home as one of the results of my new job.

Ten educational things I've learned include:

1. How to block a vein with my thumb.

2. How to get a dog to swallow a pill.

3. Some cats like water, as do cocker spaniels.

4. How to administer injections properly under the skin. (If you push the needle too far and don't pay attention, all the medicine can shoot straight through to the floor!)

5. Grooming a unruly pet sometimes requires sedation (theirs, not yours--although you may want to take up smoking or valiums afterwards).

6. Just because an animal is of the same species, does not mean they will like sharing a cage.

7. Dogs really can be sensitive to cold. Don't let the fur coat fool you!

8. A mop and sterilized liquid are invaluable, as are water hoses, dish soap, a washer and dryer, and an ability to hold your tongue (preferably not between your teeth).

9. A calm animal can become a panicked lunatic within seconds.

10. When working in a vet clinic, wear the appropriate clothing and footwear. Slipping on a wet floor is not fun. Depends may be necessary on a busy day (smile). White pants won't cover up the skid marks in your underwear when the felines freak out.