On My Mind

Not long ago I launched a new chapter in my career. Not saying that I’m an old dog, but after 30 years of small animal clinical practice and practice ownership, it was time for me to learn some new tricks.

In my new role, I’ve had the privilege of interacting with students at 5 different veterinary colleges in the United States. The student hunger for knowledge and their eagerness to provide care in addition to the overall enthusiasm and joy has refreshed me.

Dr. Laura’s Words of Wisdom

But, I am somewhat haunted by one recent statement made to me by a soon to be graduate DVM. Knowing my background of 30 years of clinical practice experience, she asked me for a few words of advice on how to launch her career. I covered the usual:
• Find a mentor; be a mentor.
• Assess your future place of employment for culture fit.
• Embrace the thought that you can’t control outcomes despite a client’s expectation. You can only do your best.
• Build a plan for self-care and work-life balance. You will be happier and more likely to last longer in your chosen career path.

Then, I added:
“Veterinary medicine is a great vocation. You’ve chosen a wonderful profession.”
But her sincere heartfelt response caused me to pause:
“Thank you for saying that. Some have said differently.”
My audible response was “Really?” and while I understood, I felt sadness. I don’t think the feedback she received was necessarily a one-off.
The clinical practice of veterinary medicine is a challenging calling, and it can leave those of us who have been in the trenches feeling spent.

Struggles of Vet Professionals

Admittedly, it’s overwhelming with all we have to juggle:
• Staggering debt
• Work place dynamics
• Increased business demands placed on practice owners
• The shortage of veterinarians in some areas
• An increase in client expectations
• The emotional toll of veterinary caregiving
• And more!

However, as a profession, do we really want to discourage young talent and cause them to question a dream? Is that the way we build self-confidence for those we expect to be career-ready?
During my University visits, it is apparent to me that our veterinary academic institutions are making strides to turn out well-rounded veterinarians. In my opinion, elective courses and professional development lectures have sought to give students a better glimpse of the “real world”.

But the fact remains that veterinary curriculums are jam-packed with content and often new graduates still find themselves ill-prepared for practice. I don’t believe there is fault here. But I do believe that all of us have an opportunity to improve in supporting and setting up the expectations for those newest to our profession.

Becoming a professional caregiver is hard work and the maturation process to some extent begins once we start practice. As employers, perhaps the “new” expectation of mentoring, self-care, and on-boarding is a better model to grow veterinarians who maintain enthusiasm for their dreams and caregiving.

As our newest colleagues enter the profession, they need support and resources to learn how to handle the real-life rigors of practice. As a collective, let’s lean in and give that support.
Veterinary Medicine is a great vocation. We’ve all chosen a wonderful profession.