– by Dr. Shelley Breadner –
When the days are long and the sun shines bright, it is natural to want to share the delight of the great outdoors with our companions. When the evening is quiet, it is always nice to know there is someone nearby to keep us company. For many people, that wonderful companion is their pet.
Statistically, people who own pets live longer. People in senior care facilities are revitalized by having animals come to visit them. The joy of giving and receiving unconditional love works positive magic on our brains and our hearts.
It is no wonder we are emotionally affected when our pet becomes ill or aged. In these times, it is essential to have a trusting relationship with your veterinarian. Compassion, knowledge and guidance, along with an incredible amount of skill to provide medical care, is what you will find with these dedicated professionals.
In my 31 years as a veterinarian, I have met many others in this profession and they are amazing and talented individuals. These people are dedicated to caring for animals, and for most it is their passion; it is their life and their livelihood. As vets, we have all spent nights poring over medical journals, solving medical mysteries – working out the best treatment for a patient we saw earlier that day. Long after the doors close and the employees go home, veterinarians can be found working through their cases.
When you and your pet develop a connection with us as your veterinarian, your pet also becomes our companion for a lifetime. We have shared laughter and tears, stories and confidences. We have known many pets from birth to their last breath. We also know heartbreak when we and our friends lose our companions.
It is difficult to put a price on compassion. We want to do the best for our patients and for their families. The realm of medical care is comparable to human medicine, with access to intensive care, specialists and a vast array of medical options. Yet the reality of today’s world can restrict how much we can do, financially or emotionally. We understand this, and always want to work together with families to make the best plan for our companions. The only way to do this is through communication and awareness of options. Be sure to ask questions and get explanations. The final choice always rests with the pet’s owner and guardian, and the support and counsel should always be available from your veterinarian.
My advice to all who share their lives with non-human companions is this: please ensure your pet has an annual exam, to ensure their health. Equally as important, this allows you to build a trusting relationship with your veterinarian. It is worth the investment. You never know when your pet’s life will depend upon it.
For more information visit www.breadnervet.com.
