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how can i be a better vet?

I am in FFA and I show sheep for 4-H and I love to work with animals. #veterinary #animal-health

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Michael’s Answer

Hello, thanks for your question. Going to and graduating from an accredited veterinary school means that you will have gotten the education necessary to pass the state boards (which confer you a license to practice) and begin your career as a veterinarian. The state board examination will cover companion animals and farm animals and include a test of clinical acumen. Coming fresh out of school, license in hand, you will still need to enter the profession in a controlled fashion, working alongside more skilled and experienced veterinarians and other clinical staff. In that first year out of school, it is said that people actually learn the most because it is a combination of applying your state-of-the-art recently acquired education in the context of your new school: real-life problems and their solutions, often not found in the textbook! All that being said, I can understand that you want to start your veterinary career not just aiming for good enough. As I have said in response to other questions, the more diverse your knowledge set going into vet school, the better equipped you are to set yourself up for success both in vet school and later. For veterinarians to be considered among the most trusted professionals means that when a veterinarian works on your animal, she or he is as competent as can be. Everyday, somewhere close to you or me, there are veterinarians who work to achieve a high level of trust with their clientele and their animals. Specialization through board certification exists as an option to you, allowing you to go further in your education and skills in one or several particular domains. You will learn in vet school about cats and dogs, but then you may want to continue expanding your scientific knowledge around your love of sheep and other farm animals. There is need for competent veterinarians in the dairy or wool industry as well as someone willing to improve availability of vital medications for parasite control in sheep, for example. So yes continue to challenge yourself to be the best you can be, but also recognize that a profession is made up of individuals, not in competition (other than themselves!), but cooperating with each other, united in the goal to better animal health.
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Kim’s Answer

Hi Brinley!

Speaking as a client, I think the thing that helps is a "customer service" attitude -being compassionate about the animals, and treating them as you would want your own animals treated! Listen to the owners. When they come in and say, "he hasn't really been himself lately. I can't explain it, but I feel like there's something wrong." Do more than just check the vitals!

Also, sadly, you need to understand where people are at, financially. Please present them with all their options, and let them make the decision. It might be that show animals and livestock are viewed strictly from an economic perspective. On the other hand, a "family member" will get human-level of care and treatment. It's not going to necessarily be the same choice that you would make.

Sometimes dealing with people is a challenge. If only the animals could talk!

Also, if you have any input into the running of the office, please hire the best customer-service oriented front desk people you can find, and treat them with the greatest of respect!

Best of luck in your endeavors!
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